Discount Osaka Hotels for Your fantastic Osaka Vacation!
Osaka is the most important financial and commercial centre of Kansai Region, and the vital seaport of the former imperial capital, Kyoto for many centuries. It is the third largest city in size and second most important city of Japan in the aspect of economy, second only to Tokyo. In spite of the extensive size, Osaka has quite a few tourist attractions, and often overlooked by tourists. However, there are interesting places in the city where visitor can take a visit during their business trip in the city.
The history of Osaka can be dated back to Nara period, under the name Naniwa, and was once held the title as the capital of the Japan, long before Kyoto and later Tokyo (Edo) took over. Even after the capital was moved elsewhere, the city has grown alongside its neighbouring city, Kyoto, and plays important role as vital hub for the land.
When it comes to travel highlights, Osaka Castle is probably the most famous place of the city. Originally built in 16th century, the castle was destroyed and reconstructed by many times - the current building was rebuilt in 1928, and is on the latest restoration in 1995. The castle is located in the financial district Chuo, surrounded by large garden and moat - best known as the best spot in the city for Sakura viewing. Another highlight tourist destination of the city is the shopping street Dotombori in Namba district of Osaka. This place is famed for lively shops and restaurants, but the most iconic sights of the place are the giant signboards, including a giant red crab, and snack manufacturer Glico's electronic display of a runner crossing the finish line.
If you are looking for an impressive bird-eye-view of the city, go no further than Umeda Sky Building where you can take the escalator to the rooftop observatory for an open-air view of Osaka. You can also go to the Universal Studio Japan which offers a 4 different theme park featuring many amusement rides and plays, or the biggest public aquarium in the world Kaiyakan Aquarium, where displays a massive collection of living sea creatures.