Very helpful. Thanks! I've been to Japan twice before, but like you, I skipped Osaka because I didn't think I'd like it as much and was short on time. I'm going again this fall for much longer so I'll definitely be going. Your video has given me some good ideas about things to do and a lot of tips.
Edit: I take back what I said - I just visited Osaka Castle again earlier this month and there was plenty of English descriptions! [[Old comment]] I love Osaka. I actually wouldn't recommend going inside Osaka Castle anyway. It's an interesting museum, but unless you can read Japanese at a decent level, you won't get much out of it. If you can read though, it is well worth it! Love your videos!
I love your channel because I am taking a mother/daughter trip to Japan in March, and I find your tips, tricks, and suggestions so helpful. To support your channel, I purchased a t-shirt from your website!! Thanks again for sharing this video!!
Planning on going to Japan for the first time next year. I had no idea there was a gudetama cafe in Osaka! Just added it to my must do list! Thanks so much for the brilliant Japlanning videos :)
Two months and two days until my trip to Japan. I'm flying into Itami airport (the other Osaka airport). Gonna stay in the Kyoto/Osaka area for my first week then head to Tokyo via shinkansen the other. I'm really excited about going to Osaka as I've never been and your video has made me hype.
@@cakeswithfaces I am a little nervous because I am solo traveling but it should be fun. I've always wanted to go to Osaka so I'm really happy I was able to this time. I love watching your videos and it's inspired me to vlog my trip to Japan.
@@yorokopi1 Japan's a very safe place, and you'll be able to do whatever you want without worrying about anyone else! I'm sure you'll have an amazing time - and videos are a great way to remember your trip!
Will your book cover transit around osaka more? or will you be able to do a detailed video on the metro/subway/ trains in osaka? Ive done my research on tokyo but im worried as there isnt as much on osaka
While it focuses mainly on Tokyo (because that's where most people will go!), my book has sections about each area around Japan, including Osaka. It mentions transport very briefly. I also have some Osaka videos filmed that I have yet to edit. It's actually very similar to Tokyo really - all the signs you need are in English, and you can use your IC card pretty much everywhere. The main difference is that in Osaka, for some reason, people stand on the right instead of the left! :-)
Thank you for all your videos Amy. We are off to Japan for the first time next week for 3 1/2 wks so all your info has been really helpful. We start in Osaka so really excited to explore now! X
Takara-zuka city is closed from Osaka Umeda stations. It's famous of Japanese style musical by ladies only. (also old onsen town.) That means some handsome actor or prince actor are ladies actresses instead of men. It's stunning. You can go to take a trains by JR or Hankyu line in half hour. Next Hankyu imazusen to Kobe via Nishinomiya. On the route there are smaller Mt.Kabuto-yama where you can clime to top 333m, and Mt.Rokkoh. plus.feel-kobe.jp/en/
Tempozan Ferris Wheel is the tallest in Japan located Osakako station. There's also Osaka Kaiyukan and Cruise ride nearby. USJ is also nearby (one train station away)
Thanks! I think Tempozan Ferris Wheel might be the one I saw from the Umeda Sky Building - it was lit up with hiragana/katakana across it and moving lights.
We flew into Osaka and then travelled Hiroshima-Nara (from Osaka)-Kyoto-Kustasu Onsen-Tokyo and Osaka was by far the most enjoyable place we visited. We accidentally stumbled upon shinsekai after a samurai class, that was an amazing day as it was completely unplanned.
Such useful video! I had no idea that there were more floating torii gates as everyone seems to be going to Miyajima. I will be definitely checking the ones in Lake Biwa because the Miyajima ones will be under reconstruction during my trip.
There was some construction on the Miyajima gate when I was there too (you can see in the video) - but it was still beautiful! Enjoy your Japlanning - less well-known places are less crowded so they can sometimes be a better experience.
Hi Amy! Hope you are doing well :) I finally booked my 1st trip to Japan! I'm going in November (flying Air Canada) I will be referring to your videos for info - thank you!
Thank you for this guide, Osaka is great, the Kaiyukan Aquarium was amazing, we saw whale sharks which is not something you see often, and we felt the animals were kept a lot better than other places we visited, you have to keep in mind that you will see animals like dolphins that are not kept in captivity in the UK so that is a bit uncomfortable, oh and the other ferris wheel you mention is HUGE and it's near the aquarium on the waterfront.
That must be a great view of the sea and the city from the other Ferris wheel! Glad to hear about the aquarium, as animal welfare isn’t always great in Japan so I tend to avoid things with animals in now. I’ll put that one on my safe list, thanks!
I went to Osaka this year April as well. And I agree upon the JR loop in Osaka not being that useful to visit stuff. I usually kept to the underground myself.
@@cakeswithfaces Indeed, one can see a lot of things when walking above ground ^^ I always walk way too much each day, I'd say 10-20 KM while on holidays.
Great video. Osaka is on my list for my next trip (third) to Japan, hopefully next year ;) I planned to make a single day trip last time to Osaka, because I was staying in Kyoto, but just could not make it for some reasons. Next time maybe Osaka will be the place to stay and explore ;)
Osaka stays up later than Kyoto and there's lots to do in the evening so it's a good place to stay! I didn't even think of going there when I first went to Kyoto - there's enough to do in Kyoto itself! Hope you enjoy it!
Thank you so much for this video. It's ashame that I overlooked Osaka. I always thought of going to many other regions of Japan but I have a Japanese friend and my cousin--who lived in Osaka for a few years--who tell me I'm doing myself a diservice but not visiting Osaka. Their opinions and this video has made up my mind and Osaka is going to get my visit! I just have such an affinity and bias for Tokyo but I have to stop resisting and visit Osaka (and Kyoto).
I'll always love Tokyo the most too! But give Osaka a chance - it surprised me, and some people say they even like it better. It's always the places I haven't been before that turn out to be the highlight of my trip.
@@cakeswithfaces Hi Amy.that sounds cool...I do actually practice the art of bujinkan taijutsu which is a samurai combat system...and there is an association between osaka castle and the real Hanzo who was a security cheif at the castle (along with many of the samurai )...even to this day there is a small security gate to the rear of the castle referred to as "Hanzos' gate"
Thanks as always, Amy! Osaka is on my itinerary, so I've already watched the Cakes' takes on Dotonbori, Den Den Town and Minoo Park. But this is an excellent summary giving a real feel of the city, with useful information like the local travel and sightseeing passes. I hope I get better weather for the castle, though, and I have to spend some time around Tennoji. If you haven't seen Misus Yaya's channel on UA-cam, then I would recommend it to every vegetarian heading to Japan (and other places). Andrea is a vegan but the restaurants and coffee shops she recommends look as though they would satisfy all but the most committed carnivore. (Maybe you have watched some recently, because her language can sometimes turn the 'air blue 😳😄)
Thanks for the recommendation! I watch a lot of Japan videos but I haven’t seen hers yet. Make a list so you don’t forget about Tennoji like I did!! 😝 PS “Cakes takes” - love it!
Got to admit that I have lists for districts of Tokyo as well as each town and city I plan to visit on train journeys to Kagoshima and back - and they keep growing with every guide I read and vlog I watch. It looks like I could easily lose a few days just in shopping malls and huge stations, though, so it all has to be flexible. I should perhaps warn you that Misus Yaya loves natto and macha, which seem to be 'acquired tastes' for Europeans. Frankly I think I'll swerve the slimy fermented beans. But she is also honest about what she doesn't enjoy, and that's something I respect on the channels I love 😍
@@jinbutsufumei Yes, sometimes I think being on camera must make things taste better because in so many videos people are raving about the food so much!! So it's good to see some honesty. I tried natto once - but I was nervous because of how infamous it is. I just had the tiniest bit, with lots of rice. Don't think I got the full effect but it's a bit like a strong cheese in a way.
Love this channel. More veggie vids please. Osaka is where everyone should go. I would actually advise skipping Tokyo if you only have a couple of weeks and it's your first visit. Fly into KIXs and explore the Kansai area from Osaka for a week. Then shortish train to stay in Kyoto for the rest of your time.
@@cakeswithfaces Oh that's great. Found it hard some days to find places to eat last time we went. Think we accidentally ended up eating all types of meat 🤪. Did manage to survive mainly on onigiri, MOS Burger, Coco Curry and convenience store food. Wish I'd seen your ramen vids before we'd gone though
@@marlowbulldog6033 It can be difficult. I've spent literally hours trawling blogs to find places to eat! Especially as we're a meat-eater and a veggie travelling together, so I can't really go to 100% vegetarian places all the time...
Hi, I love your Japan videos and really want to go to Japan. My problem is I can only walk for half an hour at a time. Can you please recommend somewhere in central Osaka where there's lot to see without too much walking, preferably near a train station where I can take day trips as you suggested. Many thanks It would be much appreciated Michael
For day trips you'd want to be near Shin-Osaka station, which is the shinkansen station. However that's not really the centre of Osaka. The best location to stay for Osaka itself is Namba - then you'll be near Dotombori. I don't want to dishearten you too much, but to give you a realistic answer, it can be tricky in Japan as there is often a lot of walking. Even within train stations, you often have to walk quite a long way to get between lines, or to exit the station. Another option may be to go to a smaller towns, where things are closer together and there are fewer long distances to walk. For example, in Matsushima, it's a beautiful town on the coast and it's more compact so things aren't so far away from each other. The same with Miyajima and many beautiful onsen towns.
@@cakeswithfaces Thanks for the advice, I won't be able to walk those distances. As there are 5 of us going would taxis save a lot of walking. As an alternative we could go to Shinjuku or Kyoto instead where I believe things to do are more compact. Are 5 people allowed in a taxi? Would appreciate your advice, I would love to spend 2 weeks in Japan in areas like Shinjuku, Kyoto, Osaka if I can can reduce the walking to a minimum.
@@MikeT-yy3 Shinjuku is large, but you'd be able to walk around a good amount of places there in 30 minutes. There aren't many benches on the streets in Japan (I always find that frustrating when my feet hurt!), but if you look for a small park on Google Maps, they often have somewhere to sit. Otherwise you could rest in a cafe, or department stores and shopping malls often have a roof garden where you can chill. Most taxis are for 4 people, but they do exist for 5 people. I've not used them myself but I've seen this company recommended: www.mktaxi-japan.com/taxi The attractions in Kyoto are grouped into areas that you could taxi to and walk around. Kyoto is still large though! I just got back from my recent trip, which included a night at Kinosaki Onsen. It's a really gorgeous town and also compact with everywhere easily walkable - I really loved it there! Obviously depending on your condition and personal preferences, another option to consider might be hiring a mobility scooter, which would make it easier to travel on trains and the subway. There's almost always an accessible route (it might just not be the most obvious one) but if you look for signs there are lifts, and I've seen staff helping with ramps to get on the train. Here's an article about it: www.littlemissturtle.com/mobility-scooter-rental-tokyo-2018/ This website's also really useful for accessibility: www.accessible-japan.com/
@@MikeT-yy3 I know it can be tricky, especially for your first time in Japan! I had so many questions before I first went, so I'm always happy to help out if I can. 🙂
@@cakeswithfaces I have seen pictures but I didn't know what lines exactly have it. Hmmm maybe I should go by train to Hokkaido instead of plane on my next trip. :D
@@cidiracing7481 It actually was pretty comfortable! (Just normal class, I didn't splash out on Gran Class!) We stopped over in Hakodate on the way, then Sendai on the way back to break up the journey.
Hello, Amy. I was wondering if you have any experience with flying within Japan(let's say Tokyo-Osaka or vice versa). Positive/negatives etc. Thanks in advance!
When I went to Fukuoka we immediately took an internal flight from Tokyo to Fukuoka. It was fine, but do compare the price/time with the bullet train. It’s a lot more comfortable & convenient than trains in the UK, and makes it easy to travel long distances without having to travel to the airport, get there 2 hours early, etc.
Here's a question that I was meaning to ask you,but I've just remembered now. I was to Japan last year and I went to Tokyo,then I went to Kyoto on the bullet train using my JR pass. My plan was to go from Kyoto to Osaka using my JR pass on the bullet train. I went to the gate for the bullet train to Oasaka and the guard wouldn't let me get on. Using my bad Japanese and his bad English,he was trying to tell me I couldn't use the shinkansen to get to Osaka using my JR pass and ud have to use the regular 30 minute train. This confused me as I knew I was allowed to and decided not to continue debating it with him as he was getting annoyed. I'm guessing I missed something in the translation. Maybe you can add some insight? I went at mid march time. I'm planning on going back when world travel us back on,and would like more of an understanding. You might not have the answer,but I was curious. Thanks!
Hmm that's strange... as you say, there's definitely a bullet train between Kyoto and Osaka and you're definitely allowed on with a JR Pass, so I don't know why they wouldn't let you on. The only thing I can think of would be if you didn't have a reservation and the train was full? Although there'd still be an unreserved carriage I would have thought... At least the regular train wasn't too much longer. :-)
The JR Pass is valid for all train lines run by Japan Railways (they usually mention "JR" at the start of the name eg JR Yamanote Line), and the shinkansen (except some of the very fastest trains eg Nozomi). The metro lines aren't run by JR so they're not covered by the JR Pass I'm afraid. If you have a Suica or Pasmo card (or another IC card from somewhere else in Japan) you'll be able to use that for the metro.
Hi!!! good videos...you should make a video about the Shimanami Kaido cycling route from Hiroshima to Ehime prefecture..it is beautiful..I'll visit Japan this year and do it...hope you can have the time (and willing to ride 80 kms ) Cheers from Guatemala!
I saw that on Chris Broad’s cycle across Japan, it does look amazing! Not sure if I could cycle that far (good luck to you!!) but I definitely want to visit Shikoku since I heard it’s the main island least visited by tourists.
@@cakeswithfaces you can do the route in two days so you can rest..don't worry about it as there are plenty of accommodation options in the islands. Hope you guys can do it... and then go to Matsuyama and take a bath in the Dogo onsen...the oldest Onsen in Japan as far as I know Cheers!!! :)
@@cakeswithfaces yeap... that's the one 😁...I saw that it's second and third floor are close due to maintenance...so you can only visit and use the baths in the first floor but it will be only for a few months I hope
Would like your opinion on this, is a week in Osaka enough time to see the major part of the city and two day trips? One day in Kyoto and one day in Nara?
I think that'd be plenty of time. I spent two nights in Osaka (with no day trips) and didn't see eeeeverything but hit all the areas you can see in my videos. There's a lot in Kyoto so you could easily do two day trips there. If you ran out of things to do, you could go to Kobe for a day, and/or Mount Koya.
I'd get both, because the JR Pass is only for JR trains and bullet trains. So you can use the Suica for local trains, the metro and trains from other companies. The alternative is getting a day or two day pass for each city, which might save you money if you're going on a lot of trians. However the Suica is the easiest and least fuss, and can be used everywhere you go.
hmmm,... if you go back to Osaka area you might enjoy Takarazuka Revue,... the women their are extremely talented,... Yuki Amami retired from there and went on to a really good tv/movie acting career.
@@cakeswithfaces ummm,... Takarazuka will probably still not be people-who-don't-speak-Japanese friendly, but the set designs, music and fashion will still be wonderful to watch ... (^_^) ... they stage productions of Ikeda Riyoko's ベルサイユのばら which are incredible!
@@sadnhigh The JR pass is for bullet trains and JR train lines. The Suica card is for the metro and local trainlines that aren't run by JR. So if you're staying in Tokyo, you don't need a JR Pass, just a Suica card for the metro and local trains. If you're travelling around Japan, a JR Pass will probably save you money (bullet train tickets are very expensive). The pass costs about the same as a return trip from Osaka or Kyoto to Tokyo. So the general rule is, if you're doing that trip or similar/longer, it's probably worth getting one. And I'd get the Suica too, for the trains that aren't covered by the JR Pass. An alternative to Suica is buying day passes for each city, but personally I think the Suica is easier and less fuss because it works everywhere.
@@cakeswithfaces thank you that's helped me out massively!😸 I plan on staying I Tokyo with a friend so it was a tad bit confusing as to what I would need bit thank you again.
hahaha! I have to go to visit family, no choice! (^_^) ... if you ever go back to Osaka in September there is the Danjiri Festival,... I don't go because (1) it's still too f###king hot outside (2) I'm a wimp and (3) sometimes people die or get seriously hurt ...
Cakes with Faces I’m a bit biased though, I spend a few years living ten minutes south of Dotonbori. Glad you looked into more than just the usual suspects.
find it ironic that Kyoto was at 1 stage was the capital of Japan (many many many years ago) and if you rearrange the letters in Kyoto you get Tokyo...the current capital.l
Both the Mint & the Spa world are completely new to me despite a lot of research. Thanks a ton again
Glad you discovered a few things! Have a great time in Osaka!
Very helpful. Thanks!
I've been to Japan twice before, but like you, I skipped Osaka because I didn't think I'd like it as much and was short on time. I'm going again this fall for much longer so I'll definitely be going. Your video has given me some good ideas about things to do and a lot of tips.
Ooh hope you enjoy it too like I did! You might feel the same sense of discovery - it’s such a full-on, fun city! 😊
Great video. I'm going to Japan in September and staying in Osaka for four nights and Tokyo seven nights. Can't wait.
Sounds like a good plan! Have fun in Dotonbori!
Very understandable for kansai area.
Hope you found it interesting!
Edit: I take back what I said - I just visited Osaka Castle again earlier this month and there was plenty of English descriptions! [[Old comment]]
I love Osaka. I actually wouldn't recommend going inside Osaka Castle anyway. It's an interesting museum, but unless you can read Japanese at a decent level, you won't get much out of it. If you can read though, it is well worth it! Love your videos!
Well I’m glad I didn’t miss too much then! 😊 Thank you!
I enjoy Osaka, i like it because it reminds of the gantz animation. It’s as busy as Tokyo but it feels a lot safer.
It took me completely by surprise! :-) I've heard a lot of people like it better than Tokyo!
I love your channel because I am taking a mother/daughter trip to Japan in March, and I find your tips, tricks, and suggestions so helpful. To support your channel, I purchased a t-shirt from your website!! Thanks again for sharing this video!!
Fantastic - not too long to wait now! You're going to love it! Thanks so much for supporting me, it really is appreciated
I’m going to Japan next month, and will be spending four nights in osaka, three nights in kyoto and 6 nights in tokyo
Sounds like a good plan! You'll love it! :-)
Osaka has such a great vibe. Love the people there as well.
Absolutely, 100% agree! :-)
Planning on going to Japan for the first time next year. I had no idea there was a gudetama cafe in Osaka! Just added it to my must do list! Thanks so much for the brilliant Japlanning videos :)
Hope you enjoy it! I wish I'd gone to the Gudetama cafe too now! :-)
Two months and two days until my trip to Japan. I'm flying into Itami airport (the other Osaka airport). Gonna stay in the Kyoto/Osaka area for my first week then head to Tokyo via shinkansen the other. I'm really excited about going to Osaka as I've never been and your video has made me hype.
Yay, that sounds like a great plan! I’m sure you’ll love it!! 😄
@@cakeswithfaces I am a little nervous because I am solo traveling but it should be fun. I've always wanted to go to Osaka so I'm really happy I was able to this time.
I love watching your videos and it's inspired me to vlog my trip to Japan.
@@yorokopi1 Japan's a very safe place, and you'll be able to do whatever you want without worrying about anyone else! I'm sure you'll have an amazing time - and videos are a great way to remember your trip!
Osaka looks nice!
looking forward to the next series of Japan videos.
Thanks! Can’t decide whether to post Tokyo or Hokkaido first!
Hokkaido maybe? Although Tokyo does look nice...
Will your book cover transit around osaka more? or will you be able to do a detailed video on the metro/subway/ trains in osaka? Ive done my research on tokyo but im worried as there isnt as much on osaka
While it focuses mainly on Tokyo (because that's where most people will go!), my book has sections about each area around Japan, including Osaka. It mentions transport very briefly. I also have some Osaka videos filmed that I have yet to edit. It's actually very similar to Tokyo really - all the signs you need are in English, and you can use your IC card pretty much everywhere. The main difference is that in Osaka, for some reason, people stand on the right instead of the left! :-)
Japan is the country I most want to visit
Hope you can make it there one day!
Another great video and good timing as I'll be in Osaka in two weeks.
Ooh how exciting! Let me know what your fav places are!
Thank you for all your videos Amy. We are off to Japan for the first time next week for 3 1/2 wks so all your info has been really helpful. We start in Osaka so really excited to explore now! X
You’re going to have an amazing time! Not long to go...! Hope you enjoy it & tag me in your pics, I always love seeing them!
We’re going to Osaka for our first trip to Japan in April!
You're going to love it! Osaka was so much fun!! :-)
Takara-zuka city is closed from Osaka Umeda stations.
It's famous of Japanese style musical by ladies only. (also old onsen town.)
That means some handsome actor or prince actor are ladies actresses instead of men.
It's stunning.
You can go to take a trains by JR or Hankyu line in half hour.
Next Hankyu imazusen to Kobe via Nishinomiya.
On the route there are smaller Mt.Kabuto-yama where you can clime to top 333m, and Mt.Rokkoh.
plus.feel-kobe.jp/en/
Hope I can go back to Kansai one day and explore more places! Thanks for the recommendations! :-)
Tempozan Ferris Wheel is the tallest in Japan located Osakako station. There's also Osaka Kaiyukan and Cruise ride nearby. USJ is also nearby (one train station away)
Thanks! I think Tempozan Ferris Wheel might be the one I saw from the Umeda Sky Building - it was lit up with hiragana/katakana across it and moving lights.
We flew into Osaka and then travelled Hiroshima-Nara (from Osaka)-Kyoto-Kustasu Onsen-Tokyo and Osaka was by far the most enjoyable place we visited. We accidentally stumbled upon shinsekai after a samurai class, that was an amazing day as it was completely unplanned.
That sounds amazing! Will have to make sure I get to Shinsekai next time I'm in Osaka! Sometimes it's the surprise things that are the best! :-)
Great video thanks some interesting trip really like the look of mount joys 😀🏴🇬🇧
My friends went there are loved it! I'm sure you'd get lots of amazing photos!
Such useful video! I had no idea that there were more floating torii gates as everyone seems to be going to Miyajima. I will be definitely checking the ones in Lake Biwa because the Miyajima ones will be under reconstruction during my trip.
There was some construction on the Miyajima gate when I was there too (you can see in the video) - but it was still beautiful! Enjoy your Japlanning - less well-known places are less crowded so they can sometimes be a better experience.
Informative video! Look forward to seeing your video!
Thank you! I try & make my videos helpful, with all the things I wanted to know :-)
I can t wait .
Hope you enjoy it!
I did can you sub me places I make videos aswell
Hi Amy! Hope you are doing well :)
I finally booked my 1st trip to Japan! I'm going in November (flying Air Canada)
I will be referring to your videos for info - thank you!
How exciting! You might see the autumn colours in November too! Enjoy planning your trip!
NIce tips, I go to Osaka mainly for fun
It's definitely the perfect place for a fun night out!
Thank you for this guide, Osaka is great, the Kaiyukan Aquarium was amazing, we saw whale sharks which is not something you see often, and we felt the animals were kept a lot better than other places we visited, you have to keep in mind that you will see animals like dolphins that are not kept in captivity in the UK so that is a bit uncomfortable, oh and the other ferris wheel you mention is HUGE and it's near the aquarium on the waterfront.
That must be a great view of the sea and the city from the other Ferris wheel! Glad to hear about the aquarium, as animal welfare isn’t always great in Japan so I tend to avoid things with animals in now. I’ll put that one on my safe list, thanks!
I went to Osaka this year April as well. And I agree upon the JR loop in Osaka not being that useful to visit stuff. I usually kept to the underground myself.
Yes, subway all the way! And I always end up walking for miles and miles - it’s good to see what’s at street level on the way.
@@cakeswithfaces Indeed, one can see a lot of things when walking above ground ^^ I always walk way too much each day, I'd say 10-20 KM while on holidays.
@@WolfyLuna You have to have comfy shoes!! A holiday's not a relaxing break for me, no way! :-)
Great video. Osaka is on my list for my next trip (third) to Japan, hopefully next year ;)
I planned to make a single day trip last time to Osaka, because I was staying in Kyoto, but just could not make it for some reasons.
Next time maybe Osaka will be the place to stay and explore ;)
Osaka stays up later than Kyoto and there's lots to do in the evening so it's a good place to stay! I didn't even think of going there when I first went to Kyoto - there's enough to do in Kyoto itself! Hope you enjoy it!
Thank you so much for this video. It's ashame that I overlooked Osaka. I always thought of going to many other regions of Japan but I have a Japanese friend and my cousin--who lived in Osaka for a few years--who tell me I'm doing myself a diservice but not visiting Osaka. Their opinions and this video has made up my mind and Osaka is going to get my visit!
I just have such an affinity and bias for Tokyo but I have to stop resisting and visit Osaka (and Kyoto).
I'll always love Tokyo the most too! But give Osaka a chance - it surprised me, and some people say they even like it better. It's always the places I haven't been before that turn out to be the highlight of my trip.
@@cakeswithfaces Indeed! I am now more excited and interested in Osaka and Kyoto than ever.
@@DanYellowZena Glad to hear it! Enjoy your trip!! :-)
would love to visit osaka castle (if it's open to the public).another fantastic video Amy.
Thanks! Yes you can go in (if you get there before closing time!), there’s a museum inside.
@@cakeswithfaces fantastic...I assume a feudal era history museum?
@@hanzohattori2492 You can try on a samurai costume, and I think it has a pretty good view too.
@@cakeswithfaces Hi Amy.that sounds cool...I do actually practice the art of bujinkan taijutsu which is a samurai combat system...and there is an association between osaka castle and the real Hanzo who was a security cheif at the castle (along with many of the samurai )...even to this day there is a small security gate to the rear of the castle referred to as "Hanzos' gate"
@@cakeswithfaces Happy international star wars day to you and Phil. 👍👍
Osaka seems super cool, and also are you going to be at hyper japan this year? Love the videos as always!
Thanks! I won’t be at HJ this time; in fact the only show I have booked is MCM London this month.
Thanks as always, Amy! Osaka is on my itinerary, so I've already watched the Cakes' takes on Dotonbori, Den Den Town and Minoo Park.
But this is an excellent summary giving a real feel of the city, with useful information like the local travel and sightseeing passes.
I hope I get better weather for the castle, though, and I have to spend some time around Tennoji.
If you haven't seen Misus Yaya's channel on UA-cam, then I would recommend it to every vegetarian heading to Japan (and other places). Andrea is a vegan but the restaurants and coffee shops she recommends look as though they would satisfy all but the most committed carnivore.
(Maybe you have watched some recently, because her language can sometimes turn the 'air blue 😳😄)
Thanks for the recommendation! I watch a lot of Japan videos but I haven’t seen hers yet. Make a list so you don’t forget about Tennoji like I did!! 😝
PS “Cakes takes” - love it!
Got to admit that I have lists for districts of Tokyo as well as each town and city I plan to visit on train journeys to Kagoshima and back - and they keep growing with every guide I read and vlog I watch.
It looks like I could easily lose a few days just in shopping malls and huge stations, though, so it all has to be flexible.
I should perhaps warn you that Misus Yaya loves natto and macha, which seem to be 'acquired tastes' for Europeans. Frankly I think I'll swerve the slimy fermented beans.
But she is also honest about what she doesn't enjoy, and that's something I respect on the channels I love 😍
@@jinbutsufumei Yes, sometimes I think being on camera must make things taste better because in so many videos people are raving about the food so much!! So it's good to see some honesty.
I tried natto once - but I was nervous because of how infamous it is. I just had the tiniest bit, with lots of rice. Don't think I got the full effect but it's a bit like a strong cheese in a way.
Love this channel. More veggie vids please. Osaka is where everyone should go. I would actually advise skipping Tokyo if you only have a couple of weeks and it's your first visit. Fly into KIXs and explore the Kansai area from Osaka for a week. Then shortish train to stay in Kyoto for the rest of your time.
Thanks! I’ve heard a few people say they prefer Osaka to Tokyo actually! And yes there are more veggie vids on the way... 😊
@@cakeswithfaces Oh that's great. Found it hard some days to find places to eat last time we went. Think we accidentally ended up eating all types of meat 🤪. Did manage to survive mainly on onigiri, MOS Burger, Coco Curry and convenience store food. Wish I'd seen your ramen vids before we'd gone though
@@marlowbulldog6033 It can be difficult. I've spent literally hours trawling blogs to find places to eat! Especially as we're a meat-eater and a veggie travelling together, so I can't really go to 100% vegetarian places all the time...
Such Great Information .
Thanks, glad you found it helpful! 😊
Okini for good guidance of around Osaka. You look gorgeous with purplish blue hair.
Thank you!! 😊
Yeah I think I should go to Osaka😀
Question answered! 😝👍✨
Hi,
I love your Japan videos and really want to go to Japan.
My problem is I can only walk for half an hour at a time.
Can you please recommend somewhere in central Osaka where there's lot to see without too much walking, preferably near a train station where I can take day trips as you suggested.
Many thanks It would be much appreciated
Michael
For day trips you'd want to be near Shin-Osaka station, which is the shinkansen station. However that's not really the centre of Osaka. The best location to stay for Osaka itself is Namba - then you'll be near Dotombori.
I don't want to dishearten you too much, but to give you a realistic answer, it can be tricky in Japan as there is often a lot of walking. Even within train stations, you often have to walk quite a long way to get between lines, or to exit the station.
Another option may be to go to a smaller towns, where things are closer together and there are fewer long distances to walk. For example, in Matsushima, it's a beautiful town on the coast and it's more compact so things aren't so far away from each other. The same with Miyajima and many beautiful onsen towns.
@@cakeswithfaces Thanks for the advice, I won't be able to walk those distances.
As there are 5 of us going would taxis save a lot of walking.
As an alternative we could go to Shinjuku or Kyoto instead where I believe things to do are more compact.
Are 5 people allowed in a taxi?
Would appreciate your advice, I would love to spend 2 weeks in Japan in areas like Shinjuku, Kyoto, Osaka if I can can reduce the walking to a minimum.
@@MikeT-yy3
Shinjuku is large, but you'd be able to walk around a good amount of places there in 30 minutes. There aren't many benches on the streets in Japan (I always find that frustrating when my feet hurt!), but if you look for a small park on Google Maps, they often have somewhere to sit. Otherwise you could rest in a cafe, or department stores and shopping malls often have a roof garden where you can chill.
Most taxis are for 4 people, but they do exist for 5 people. I've not used them myself but I've seen this company recommended: www.mktaxi-japan.com/taxi
The attractions in Kyoto are grouped into areas that you could taxi to and walk around. Kyoto is still large though!
I just got back from my recent trip, which included a night at Kinosaki Onsen. It's a really gorgeous town and also compact with everywhere easily walkable - I really loved it there!
Obviously depending on your condition and personal preferences, another option to consider might be hiring a mobility scooter, which would make it easier to travel on trains and the subway. There's almost always an accessible route (it might just not be the most obvious one) but if you look for signs there are lifts, and I've seen staff helping with ramps to get on the train. Here's an article about it: www.littlemissturtle.com/mobility-scooter-rental-tokyo-2018/ This website's also really useful for accessibility: www.accessible-japan.com/
@@cakeswithfaces Very helpful, I do appreciate the effort you put in your reply - Michael
@@MikeT-yy3 I know it can be tricky, especially for your first time in Japan! I had so many questions before I first went, so I'm always happy to help out if I can. 🙂
That shouldnt even be a question. I enjoy my trip to osaka more than to tokyo
You’re not the only person I’ve heard that from! 😊
I’ll be their the 26th of May thank you.
Not long to go!! Have an amazing time! :-D
The only thing to look out for when going from Tokyo to Osaka by shinkansen is to take the right train. The Nozomi isn't covered by the JR Pass.
Good point! It’s great that the shinkansen covered by your pass runs just as fast as the Nozomi (it just stops at more stations)
@@cakeswithfaces Jep. Still gets there fast enough with a few extra stops and nice comfy seats. Wish airplanes would be like that. :D
@@cidiracing7481 So much better than any train in the UK...! Have you seen Gran Class on the shinkansen to Hokkaido, it looks so fancy!
@@cakeswithfaces I have seen pictures but I didn't know what lines exactly have it. Hmmm maybe I should go by train to Hokkaido instead of plane on my next trip. :D
@@cidiracing7481 It actually was pretty comfortable! (Just normal class, I didn't splash out on Gran Class!) We stopped over in Hakodate on the way, then Sendai on the way back to break up the journey.
Hello, Amy. I was wondering if you have any experience with flying within Japan(let's say Tokyo-Osaka or vice versa). Positive/negatives etc.
Thanks in advance!
When I went to Fukuoka we immediately took an internal flight from Tokyo to Fukuoka. It was fine, but do compare the price/time with the bullet train. It’s a lot more comfortable & convenient than trains in the UK, and makes it easy to travel long distances without having to travel to the airport, get there 2 hours early, etc.
I gotta admit I never thought of visiting Osaka until I started watching your videos. You really opened up my eyes
Happy to add to your Japlanning list!! 😊
I wanna visit Osaka due to Yakuza 0! 💕💕😍 Most likely on my 2nd trip though!😳
My friend’s a big Yakuza fan, she went on a Yakuza tour of Kabukicho in Tokyo - it’s actually pretty accurate!
Here's a question that I was meaning to ask you,but I've just remembered now. I was to Japan last year and I went to Tokyo,then I went to Kyoto on the bullet train using my JR pass. My plan was to go from Kyoto to Osaka using my JR pass on the bullet train. I went to the gate for the bullet train to Oasaka and the guard wouldn't let me get on. Using my bad Japanese and his bad English,he was trying to tell me I couldn't use the shinkansen to get to Osaka using my JR pass and ud have to use the regular 30 minute train. This confused me as I knew I was allowed to and decided not to continue debating it with him as he was getting annoyed. I'm guessing I missed something in the translation. Maybe you can add some insight? I went at mid march time. I'm planning on going back when world travel us back on,and would like more of an understanding. You might not have the answer,but I was curious.
Thanks!
Hmm that's strange... as you say, there's definitely a bullet train between Kyoto and Osaka and you're definitely allowed on with a JR Pass, so I don't know why they wouldn't let you on. The only thing I can think of would be if you didn't have a reservation and the train was full? Although there'd still be an unreserved carriage I would have thought... At least the regular train wasn't too much longer. :-)
@@cakeswithfaces Yeah that's what I thought. I have time to brush up on my japanese in the meanwhile. Thanks!
Did you board the nozomi line? They don’t take JR Pass.
@@berrykage Heya. No it wasnt,which made it all the more confusing. I'm sure I'll get it figured out for my return visit!😀
@@vomasaurusrex9782 best of luck! I'm excited to go back to Japan and I'm binge watching Amy's videos and planning lol
Can you use your JR pass with regular JR metro lines
The JR Pass is valid for all train lines run by Japan Railways (they usually mention "JR" at the start of the name eg JR Yamanote Line), and the shinkansen (except some of the very fastest trains eg Nozomi). The metro lines aren't run by JR so they're not covered by the JR Pass I'm afraid.
If you have a Suica or Pasmo card (or another IC card from somewhere else in Japan) you'll be able to use that for the metro.
Yey, looking forward to more ^_^
Can’t decide whether to edit Tokyo or Hokkaido first!
@@cakeswithfaces Hokkaido!
@@loopyfrog That's what I'm most excited about editing, because it's so different. And: SO MUCH SNOW!
Hi!!! good videos...you should make a video about the Shimanami Kaido cycling route from Hiroshima to Ehime prefecture..it is beautiful..I'll visit Japan this year and do it...hope you can have the time (and willing to ride 80 kms )
Cheers from Guatemala!
I saw that on Chris Broad’s cycle across Japan, it does look amazing! Not sure if I could cycle that far (good luck to you!!) but I definitely want to visit Shikoku since I heard it’s the main island least visited by tourists.
@@cakeswithfaces you can do the route in two days so you can rest..don't worry about it as there are plenty of accommodation options in the islands. Hope you guys can do it... and then go to Matsuyama and take a bath in the Dogo onsen...the oldest Onsen in Japan as far as I know
Cheers!!! :)
@@oscarpaiz79 Ah I think that might be the one the bath-house in Spirited Away is based on? It'd definitely be an amazing experience!
@@cakeswithfaces yeap... that's the one 😁...I saw that it's second and third floor are close due to maintenance...so you can only visit and use the baths in the first floor but it will be only for a few months I hope
@@oscarpaiz79 They always keep places in amazing condition - so many temples look brand new!
Osaka is not somewhere you will want to visit again and again, bit it’s worth a visit at least once I think.
Definitely! Although a night out on Dotonbori is something I’d happily do again... 😊
Would like your opinion on this, is a week in Osaka enough time to see the major part of the city and two day trips? One day in Kyoto and one day in Nara?
I think that'd be plenty of time. I spent two nights in Osaka (with no day trips) and didn't see eeeeverything but hit all the areas you can see in my videos. There's a lot in Kyoto so you could easily do two day trips there. If you ran out of things to do, you could go to Kobe for a day, and/or Mount Koya.
Ah! ... if you stay at a monestary in Koya-san the monks will serve you vegetarian food! ... Also the cemetary there is a fantastic history lesson!
I'm going to japan in June I'll be staying in Osaka, kyoto and Tokyo, I'm getting a Jr rail pass, would you recommend getting a suica card as well?
I'd get both, because the JR Pass is only for JR trains and bullet trains. So you can use the Suica for local trains, the metro and trains from other companies. The alternative is getting a day or two day pass for each city, which might save you money if you're going on a lot of trians. However the Suica is the easiest and least fuss, and can be used everywhere you go.
@@cakeswithfaces thanks for that, does the suica card cover buses?
@@petercarty1 Yes! You don't need the buses in Tokyo; the metro takes you everywhere you need to go, but they might be useful in Kyoto.
hmmm,... if you go back to Osaka area you might enjoy Takarazuka Revue,... the women their are extremely talented,... Yuki Amami retired from there and went on to a really good tv/movie acting career.
I haven't heard of that, thanks for the recommendation.
@@cakeswithfaces ummm,... Takarazuka will probably still not be people-who-don't-speak-Japanese friendly, but the set designs, music and fashion will still be wonderful to watch ... (^_^) ... they stage productions of Ikeda Riyoko's ベルサイユのばら which are incredible!
Amy turned into Kaito 💙💙💙
Haha perfect colour! 😝
I love your hair. I want to go to the attack on titan theme park in Osaka.
Thanks! I think that’s at Universal? The part where you can pose in a titan’s fist is awesome!
@@cakeswithfaces I'm confused with the JR pass and suica cards, do you need to have both or can you get around with just one of them? Thanks. 🤔😸
@@sadnhigh The JR pass is for bullet trains and JR train lines. The Suica card is for the metro and local trainlines that aren't run by JR.
So if you're staying in Tokyo, you don't need a JR Pass, just a Suica card for the metro and local trains.
If you're travelling around Japan, a JR Pass will probably save you money (bullet train tickets are very expensive). The pass costs about the same as a return trip from Osaka or Kyoto to Tokyo. So the general rule is, if you're doing that trip or similar/longer, it's probably worth getting one. And I'd get the Suica too, for the trains that aren't covered by the JR Pass. An alternative to Suica is buying day passes for each city, but personally I think the Suica is easier and less fuss because it works everywhere.
@@cakeswithfaces thank you that's helped me out massively!😸 I plan on staying I Tokyo with a friend so it was a tad bit confusing as to what I would need bit thank you again.
@@sadnhigh Have a great time!
hahaha! I have to go to visit family, no choice! (^_^) ... if you ever go back to Osaka in September there is the Danjiri Festival,... I don't go because (1) it's still too f###king hot outside (2) I'm a wimp and (3) sometimes people die or get seriously hurt ...
October in Japan was hot enough for me!
The answer is always “yes”.
Question answered!! 😝
Cakes with Faces I’m a bit biased though, I spend a few years living ten minutes south of Dotonbori. Glad you looked into more than just the usual suspects.
@@ScibyTravels That must have been an exciting place to live! No shortage of places to eat out! :-)
..if you're fond of tattoos go visit Three Tides Tattoo..can't wait for the Hokkaido video.. :-)
Thanks for the rec! Looking forward to going through all my Hokkaido footage as it's so different!
find it ironic that Kyoto was at 1 stage was the capital of Japan (many many many years ago) and if you rearrange the letters in Kyoto you get Tokyo...the current capital.l
It’s funny isn’t it! I wonder if there’s a reason or if it’s just by chance...
@@cakeswithfaces I would say it's just coincidence but you never know.lol....loving the blue hair btw..looks amazing.really suits you.💖💖💖
Kyo means capital. To is a syllable with a few associated kanji. In Tokyo it means eastern capital. In Kyoto it means capital city.
@@briandemodulated ah.i see.very interesting...certainly explains it.Thanks.👍
@@briandemodulated ...and it all falls into place! Thank you!
Osaka is so dirty and gross. Kyoto and Tokyo are far better.
Tokyo is certainly shinier, difficult to compare Kyoto as they're so different! :-)