OSAKA

Kingdoms thrive and fall, samurai warriors come and go. Osaka (大阪), is a city that witnessed the change in the course of Japan history, from the 12th century to Tokugawa period followed by the Edo period. Osaka has been the focal point of Japan as the centre of trade with Korea and China with a major port and mercantile centre, and it houses the magnificent Osaka Castle.



Every story has a beginning. So does my travel story. It was the first semester break during my university days in NUS, I chanced upon a one week homestay programme in Osaka by the Japanese Studies Department and I was selected among the 9 other participants. There I met Mr. Hideaki Aiki, who inspired me with his sole reason to be a host family – to meet everyone from the world.

In 1583, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who accomplished the great task of unifying the country out of the endless strife (wars between regional warlords, a long period that marked the glorious history of samurai), chose Osaka as his base and constructed the magnificent Osaka Castle, making Osaka the political and economic centre of Japan.



Osaka Castle

Since then, merchants set up around the castle and the city grew into a busy economic centre. This development was further encouraged by the Tokugawa Shōgunate, which adopted a hands-off approach to the city, allowing merchants to prosper unhindered by government interference (laissez-faire was adopted and revered before Adam Smith!).

Though the capital was subsequently moved to nearby Nara and Kyoto, Osaka continued to flourish uninterruptedly, serving as the gateway of culture and trade.

In the modern period, Osaka is still an economic powerhouse in the Kansai region, symbolized by the spirit of open-mindlessness and entrepreneurship. As such, Osaka people are always being referred as shrewd and successful businessman.

Nintoku Mausoleum (Sakai City) This key hole shaped ancient burial mound is the largest of its kind in the world and is said to have been built in the 5th century for the Emperor Nintoku. Surrounded by three moats, the mound is 486m long and 35m high.

Osaka Castle (Osaka City) Construction of Osaka Castle was started in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. With its five-layered castle tower, the castle was designed to fit the splendor of the metropolis that Hideyoshi aspired to create. The castle tower has been restored twice, first by the Tokugawa Shōgunate at the beginning of the Edo Period (17th century) and then by the citizens of Osaka in 1931. Today it still stands tall as Osaka's symbol.

The Bustling "Nation's Kitchen" During the Edo period (17th-19th century), Osaka was known as the "Nation's Kitchen", a gathering and distribution centre of numerous materials and commodities. Dōtonbori Street in the downtown features myriads of Japanese and other cuisine that will satisfy every hungry stomach.


Embracing the historical and cultural centres of Kyoto and Nara, the Ise-Shima Shrines, and the vibrant commercial cities of Osaka and Kobe, the Kansai region is essentially the heart of the nation.

Osaka maybe more truly ‘Japanese’ than Tokyo, having a more distinctive flavor and character than its sprawling rival to the east.

Entrance to Osaka Castle.

Built by Hideyoshi and burnt down by Tokugawa Leyasu, Osaka Castle is a testament to its own turbulent history.

Osaka street view.

 We were given a chance to tour the high school in Osaka and interact with local students during our stay in Osaka.

The Hanshin Tigers.

Dotonbori, which at night is Osaka’s ultimate assault on the senses.

A cornucopia of bizarre creatures adorn the building flanking the main street of Dotonbori.

The classical Glico moment. Its 33m original version Glico Man sign at the Ebusu-bashi bridge.has lasted for over 70 years. The company behind the ad, Ezaki Glico, is a confectionery manufacturer based in the city, best known for their caramel candy and (maybe your favourite) Pocky pretzel snacks.

A business centre by day, Osaka also thrives at night.

Osaka is the perfect base from which to explore nearby historical centres of Nara and Kyoto by train.

The power of Tokugawa clan was ensured by cementing their ethical principles in the code of bushido, ‘the way of the warrior’: loyalty to one’s master, defence of one’s status and honour, and fulfilment of all obligations.

Taken during the cultural session arranged by Osaka Prefecture University.

Originated from the Chinese-style pao, a long, kimono like attire brilliant with colours and embellishment, the kimono underwent changes that eventually made it distinctly Japanese.

Sukiyaki is a Japanese dish in the nabemono (Japanese hot pot) style. It consists of thinly sliced beef with other ingredients such as tofu, negi, mushrooms, jelly noodles and cabbage. The sauce is made up of sake, mirin, sugar and soy. When eating, Japanese often dip the ingredients in raw beaten egg.

Takoyaki is the national food for Osaka people and every family has their secret recipe for it.

Osaka Castle.

(from Left) Mario-san the Jazz saxophone player, Aiki-san the big brother, me and Ken-chan the kind and tender. This is the host family I stayed with for a week during the homestay.

NUS ambassador in action.