A full day in Osaka

After yesterday's sake-filled evening, we stayed in bed longer than planned (Osaka strikes again).

We take a walk in the Shin-Sekai district late in the morning. Shin-sekei translates to "new world" and used to have an amusement park a long time ago. Now, most of it is run down: there are still some entertainment establishments, but they are more like Pachinko parlors (-or hells?). There are also many food stalls and restaurants where you can afford to eat even with little income. The whole neighborhood has a retro vibe. There are also many restaurants here that serve Fugu - for those who are adventurous. We already tried some Fugu yesterday and Stef swears that his upper lip was numb for 2 hours. Well, whether I believe him or not, we don't need to tempt fate.

We continue to stroll to the Shitenno-ji Temple. This is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, which allegedly dates back to 595. However, as often is the case, the buildings are of more recent date. We get distracted from the spiritual experience by a flea market that takes place on the temple grounds for 2 days every month. You can buy secondhand kimonos, some of them are really beautiful. Stef is not in the mood for shopping and unfortunately, I have too little (or rather: no) space in my suitcase for new acquisitions. Too bad, flea markets in other countries are always so exciting!

We go to another district of Osaka to the Grand Front Osaka, a huge shopping mall. Among other things, Panasonic has set up showrooms there to showcase their (latest) products. And by showrooms, we mean that entire apartments have been set up and furnished, from bathrooms to living rooms to kitchens. I take a closer look at the department store, but quickly give up when I see the prices: a blouse for 230.-? Phew...

Right next door, about 10 minutes on foot, is the Umeda Sky Building. A quite futuristic building that actually consists of two towers connected at the top. A bit like a huge horseshoe. Of course, for an admission fee, which is quite high, you can go up to the platform, which is referred to as the "floating garden". It may float, but there is no garden.

We admire the sunset over Osaka from this platform, then it's time for dinner. We've been in Japan for two days and haven't had any ramen yet - that needs to change quickly. So we head back to the Dotombori district: there's always something going on here, the neon signs, moving restaurant signs in the shape of crabs, lobsters, shells, and everything imaginable, attract the residents and visitors of Osaka alike. It's a colorful hustle and bustle!

Osaka, we like you!