population: 19.28 million

extension: 223.00 square kilometers

Museums

A great museum to visit in Osaka is the National Museum of Art, which features a collection of modern and contemporary art from Japan and around the world. If you're interested in visiting similar museums nearby, you may also want to check out the Kyoto National Museum or the Tokyo National Museum, both of which are located within a few hours' train ride from Osaka.

Food

Osaka is famous for its delicious and diverse food scene. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to try according to local people in Osaka:

1. Okonomiyaki - A savory pancake made with a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, meat, seafood, and noodles.

2. Takoyaki - A ball-shaped snack made of diced octopus, batter, and various seasonings.

3. Kushikatsu - Deep-fried skewered meat, vegetables, and seafood dipped in a sauce of your choice.

4. Udon - Thick wheat flour noodles served in hot soup or cold with dipping sauce.

5. Yakitori - Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or sauce.

6. Fugu - Pufferfish sashimi or hot pot, which must be prepared by licensed chefs due to its potentially deadly toxins.

7. Ramen - Noodles served in hot soup, typically made with pork-based broth.

8. Kansai-style sushi - Sushi with toppings like cooked shrimp, omelet, and pickled vegetables.

9. Oshizushi - Pressed sushi that is made by pressing vinegar-seasoned rice and toppings into a rectangular mold.

10. Taiyaki - A sweet snack shaped like a fish and filled with red bean paste or custard.

Activities

Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Osaka are:

1. Visit the Osaka Castle: This is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, and it's one of Osaka's most iconic landmarks.

2. Explore the Dotonbori area: This lively entertainment district is known for its vibrant atmosphere, street food, and shopping.

3. Take a walk in the Shinsekai area: This neighborhood has a retro feel and is known for its unique architecture and delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables) restaurants.

4. Go to an izakaya: These traditional Japanese pubs are a favorite among locals for socializing with friends over drinks and tasty food.

5. Attend a baseball game: Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, and cheering on the local team at a game is a fun experience for both sports fans and newcomers alike.