The Kansai region has prospered
as the capital of commerce in Japan since olden times. As such, Kansai is
characterized by its distinct vitality and energy even today, creating a very
special atmosphere that enlivens the visitor as well.
Osaka, 3
hrs. by Shinkansen super express or 1 hr. by air from Tokyo, is Japan's
third-largest city and the commercial and industrial hub for western Japan.
Situated at the mouth of the Yodo River emptying into Osaka Bay,
Osaka has a network of canals that crisscross under its many busy streets,
which have played an important role in the city's prosperity.
As a classical city, it is very proud of its being the origin of
Bunraku puppet theater. The Osaka
Bay area is a must for visitors as an
emerging center of the trendiest in urban attractions, include Osaka Aquarium KAIYUKAN and Universal
Sudios JapanTM, a
Hollywood based theme park, and many more.
The absolute highlight is Osaka Castle,
once the largest in Japan, built in 1586 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The present
five-storied fortress, a copy of the original, contains many historical art
objects and documents related to the Toyotomi family and Osaka of the old.
Nakanoshima,
on a small delta between divergent streams of the Yodo River, is the civic
center. At its end lies Temmangu
Shrine, dedicated to
Michizane Sugawara, a noted scholar. Nearby is the Tenjinbashi Shopping Street
which has long prospered by catering to worshippers and visitors to the local
shrine. A walk along its shopping arcade provides a glimpse into the daily
lifestyle of the local residents.
For entertainment and shopping, don't miss the Umeda and Namba
districts. Umeda, centered around
Umeda Sta., has a number of modern underground arcades which are always teaming
with visitors and shoppers. Worthy of its reputation for "kuidaore"
(the epicurean joy of over-indulgence in the delights of the table), Osaka
truly caters to the gourmet. Try popular Osaka dishes such as
"yakiniku" (grilled meat), "fugu-nabe" (globefish hotpot), "kushi-katsu"
(skewed deep-fried pork and onions), "sushi" and "tako-yaki"
(baked dumpling containing a piece of boiled octopus), among many, many others.
Kobe, 30
min. by rail from Osaka, is a major seaport which has developed at a rapid pace
since the Meiji Restoration began in 1868. A city of hills, Kobe has many
narrow paths and walkways that wind up and down the Rokko foothills that form
the city's backdrop. One of Japan's main ports, along with Yokohama, Kobe
harbors a fascinating foreign residential enclave that is great for strolling.
Kobe Port Tower, soaring 108 m., is beautifully lit up in the evening. Across
the way is Kobe Harborland, a newly emerging waterfront development. It bustles
with throngs of visitors who enjoy the famed night view of this great port city
well into the evening hours.
Another major attraction in western Japan is located in Himeji City. Himeji
Castle is one of the most
beautiful castles to be found in the nation. With its twisting paths through
the castle grounds leading past alabaster—plastered walls and the original buildings—preserved
as national treasures—a visit here is not to be missed.
For a different unforgettable experience, stay at the monastery
at the summit of Mt.
Koya, a 2-hr. rail ride from Osaka.
Founded in 816 by Kobo Daishi, the great exponent of the Shingon sect of
Buddhism, the monastery is comprised of over 120 temples, of which 53 offer
lodgings and vegetarian meals at reasonable prices. The monastery is visited by
1 million pilgrims annually.
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