There is something oh-so-magical about the hustle and bustle of fast-paced Dotonbori, an iconic street in Osaka that is packed with a never-ending array of things to see and do. If you’re an unashamed foodie like us, you’ll also be glad to know that the area is a fantastic place to try some authentic Japanese fare.

However, the crowd does sometimes get to us and some of the prices for food here can be rather steep as Dotonbori is, at the end of the day, still a tourist hotspot. Many a time, we wished that there was somewhere we could settle down for a quiet meal to get away from the crowd for a bit.

We are glad to say that if you search hard enough, you can actually find some gems that are a little less hectic than the places in the main area of Dotonbori. That was how we came across Wakasaya Nankai Namba along a random street. This humble restaurant is great for people who love raw seafood as they specialise in wholesome sashimi bowls at wallet-friendly prices.

Located in an obscure, quiet street of Dotonbori away from the massive crowds, the restaurant is your typical Japanese dining establishment with its narrow, cramped interior. One side of the eatery is lined with a long table with around eight seats while the other has three four-seater tables.

They have a very extensive menu, packed with every conceivable combination of sashimi bowls out there. While we were spoilt for choice, we decided to go back to the basics and ordered ourselves a Salmon Bowl (720 Yen)

The dish featured a bed of warm rice that was generously blanketed with thick strips of salmon sashimi. Each piece of salmon was fresh and evenly sliced, and we liked how each cut was thick enough for you to get a good mouthfeel of the fish without it being too cloying. We also loved how buttery the salmon was; it simply melts away in your mouth!

If you’re an indecisive person who enjoys sampling a little bit of everything, we recommend getting bowls that come with a variety of different toppings. We ourselves opted for the Negitoro, Sea Urchin & Ikura Don (1320 Yen) and were pretty impressed by it.

The dish came embellished with a generous, fresh smothering of negitoro (minced tuna), creamy uni and juicy salmon roe served once again atop a bed of warm rice.

We liked how the negitoro managed to add some richness and saltiness to the dish without being too fishy or overpowering. When mixed in with the rice, it also added a little stickiness that helped to gel the various components together.

The uni, on the other hand, had a more buttery texture that too helped enhance the dish by giving it an addictive creaminess. It also provided the dish with a subtle sweetness as well as a briny touch.

Finally, the explosive ikura (salmon roe) tied everything together by giving us little sensational pops of flavour with every mouthful.

If you’re in Dotonbori, be sure to check out Wakasaya Nankai Namba. They don’t have the best sashimi bowls in town, but we find that for the price point and the location, this spot is really worth visiting.

Wakasaya Nankai Namba
Japan, 542-0075 Osaka, Chuo Ward
Nanbasennichimae, 12?34
Tel: +81 6-6556-9508
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Osaka-Namba

While Japan is home to a smorgasbord of delicious food options that never fail to leave us spoilt for choice, there are a few perennial staples that the Japanese always go back to.

Ramen is one of them and is considered comfort food; we mean, who can resist springy noodles doused in a piping hot, savoury broth? We definitely can’t.

Although we can never say no to a classic bowl of tonkatsu ramen, we don’t mind stepping out of our comfort zone and trying an unconventional version of it, which is why we were drawn to Tanchou in Osaka.

What makes Tanchou so different from the other ramen joints out there is that their ramen comes cooked with chawanmushi. For the uninitiated, chawanmushi is a Japanese-style steamed egg custard that has a silky texture. This bizarre combination undoubtedly piqued our interest and here is what we thought.

The quirky restaurant isn’t hard to spot; just look out for the giant egg! It is also conveniently located near Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and the Tempozan Ferris Wheel so it is a great place to fuel up at after a day of fun.

Like most Japanese restaurants, Tanchou has a pretty small interior that simply consists of a long counter and about 12 seats that are all side by side. Having a meal here entails a bit of a squeeze, but for the experience, it’s worth it!

You can order the standard Steamed Egg Custard Ramen for just 850 Yen, but we decided to spice ours up by getting the Steamed Egg Custard & Pork Ramen (1350 Yen).

Saying that the pork is fantastic is an absolute understatement; this fork-tender chunk of meat broke apart easily and was the epitome of melt-in-your-mouth. The fat-to-meat ratio was on point and the meat was jam-packed with umami which helped to elevate the subtle flavours of the chawanmushi.

The ramen and chawanmushi gelled surprisingly well together. We did, however, expect the chawanmushi to provide the ramen with a creamier texture, but alas, all the chawanmushi did was stick to the ramen in clumps. Also, instead of ramen broth, they incorporated the stock used to make the chawanmushi, which resulted in a concoction that was very light on the palate. As we prefer our broth to be on the thicker, richer side, we weren’t massive fans of it, but if you enjoy light soup bases, this would be perfect for you.

We also got ourselves the Steamed Egg Custard & Cheese Ramen (1350 Yen) which is essentially the standard Steamed Egg Custard Ramen that is blanketed in a luxurious layer of cheese. The dish is then flambéed, which melts the cheese and gives it a lovely char as well as an addictive smoky flavour. 

They also provide you with a side of toast that you can use to scoop up the cheese and chawanmushi.

When mixed in with the ramen and chawanmushi, the cheese gave the entire dish a creamier, more viscous texture, which was a complete contrast to the silky and smooth consistency of the Steamed Egg Custard & Pork Ramen. We very much preferred the ramen with cheese as it added more depth to the dish that helped to elevate the light flavours of the other components.

All in all, it was an interesting experience that we do not regret. While most of the flavours were too light for us, it was still a pretty solid bowl of ramen that is worth a try.

Tanchou 
3 Chome-8-7 Chikko
Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0021, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6576-6826
Daily: 11.30am – 4pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Osakako

Some days we just thank the universe for giving us this integral part of our daily lives—instant noodles. Instant noodles have been a saviour of many, from late nights in the office to sustenance during your dreary student days.

Did you know that instant noodles (or instant ramen) were first invented by Momofuku Ando in Osaka? Nissin Foods was the first company to create and distribute it to the masses.

To celebrate this amazing creation that many around the world are thankful for, the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum was born in 2011 and is open to the public to come forth and understand the history and significance of this iconic food.

Best part here? You can D.I.Y your perfect instant ramen bowl! Here is what you can expect from this mind-blowing museum.

Image: https://foodsaurus.wordpress.com

Walking in, you will be greeted with a gift shop where every single merchandise proudly boasts the instant ramen. You can also catch a huge wall of instant ramen boxes where you can see the evolution of different types of the ramen and immerse yourself in a bit of its history.

Image: http://www.instantramen-museum.jp

Check out visual representations of milestones of Momofuku Ando and his journey to the success of his wonderful creation. Everything here is displayed beautifully and you can truly indulge in the story.

Image: https://jayjayne.wordpress.com

However, you should not leave the museum without heading down to the ramen counter, where you can personalise your very own bowl of instant ramen for a fee of ¥300.

First, pick your soup flavour, then move on to choose your preferred toppings; you get four choices. Then, they will seal it up and you can decorate your cup before bringing home your very own unique cup noodles. How cool is that?!

Image: https://atravellerssong.wordpress.com

Entry: Free
Customised Noodles: ¥300
Ramen Making Workshops: ¥500/ adult and ¥300/ child

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
Address: Yubinbango 563-0041 Osaka, Ikeda Masumi-cho 8-25
Tel: (072) 752-3484
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 4pm (closed on Tuesdays)

Osaka is the second largest city in Japan after Tokyo, and has made its way to almost every traveller’s bucket list. It is also affectionately known as the Kitchen of Japan.

You have seen many guides and lists on things to do when in Tokyo, but what about Osaka? If you have yet to visit Osaka or need a reason to, this will help you out and convince you to visit the wondrous Japanese city.

Here is your definitive guide to 13 Things Every First-Timer Should Do While In Osaka.

Cafes, local eateries, ramen parlours, sushi bars, exquisite dining in aristocratic ryoteis… you name it, Osaka has it. Here is our Osaka Food Guide featuring 22 restaurants, cafes and eateries you must dine at.

Photo Credit: waytogo

#1 VISIT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN

Perhaps you have already visited Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea but those aren’t the only theme parks in Japan.

Universal Studios Japan is a different experience altogether. Some of their more popular attractions include the backwards-riding Hollywood Dream roller coaster, the Space Fantasy Ride and the thrilling Flying Dinosaur. We can also foresee Potterheads spending hours in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter within the park.

There is also the Universal Citywalk Osaka, located just outside the park’s gates. It is lined with restaurants, shops, hotels and speciality stores.

Universal Studios Japan
2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima
Konohana Ward
554-0031, Osaka, Japan
Nearest Station: Universal-City

#2 EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH DOTONBORI

Dotonbori is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Osaka thanks to endless dining options, as well as souvenir stores that will keep you occupied for the whole day. The bustling street is filled with Japanese eateries and restaurants that will leave you so spoilt for choice.

It is also where you will find the iconic Glico Man! Dotonbori is nearest to the Osaka-Namba Station.

#3 VISIT SPA WORLD TO UNWIND AFTER A DAY OF SHOPPING

Shopping is hard work, and we often find our bodies aching after a long day of exploring the various shopping streets that Osaka has to offer. The perfect way to relax your muscles would be to visit an onsen for the night!

Spa World is in the Shinsekai precinct, another district filled with restaurants, and Spa World is rated the best spa in Osaka. For a single, basic entry price of ¥1,200, you will be treated to unlimited time at the onsen.

Spa World
3-4-24 Ebisu-Higashi
Naniwa-ku, Osaka
556-0002, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6631-0001
Mon to Sat: 1pm – 2am
Sun: 1pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Dobutsuen-Mae

Photo Credit: Osaka Info

#4 MAKE YOUR OWN CUP NOODLES AT THE INSTANT RAMEN MUSEM

The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum is located in Ikeda City, the birthplace of instant noodles. Momofuku Ando is the founder of Nissin Food Products, and the museum will walk you through the history of instant noodles.

Forget regular museum souvenirs; how does bringing home your very own customised cup noodles sound?

Pop by My CUPNOODLES Factory within the museum itself and create your very own instant noodles with your choice of soup and ingredients—prices start from ¥300.

Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum
8-25 Masumicho, Ikeda
563-0041, Osaka, Japan
Tel: +81 72-752-3484
Wed to Mon: 9.30am – 4pm
Closed on Tuesdays
Nearest Station: Ikeda

#5 VISIT THE LARGEST POKÉMON CENTER IN JAPAN

It doesn’t matter whether you have been hit by the Pokémon Go craze, or grew up loving these pocket monsters. So needless to say, a visit to the Pokémon Center in Japan is almost obligatory.

Limited edition plushies, stickers, t-shirts, tote bags, stationary etc—you are bound to have so much fun at the Pokémon Center!

Pokémon Centre Osaka
13F Daimaru Umeda Store
3-1-1, Umeda, Kita-ku
530-8202, Osaka, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6346-6002
Daily: 10am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Osaka

#6 SHOP AT SHINSAIBASHI

Shinsaibashi is a collection of sheltered shopping streets located and is one of the most popular places in Osaka. There are countless independent boutiques, departmental stores, little snack kiosks, vintage shops and souvenir stores that everybody can take delight in.

Shinsaibashi is extremely bustling to say the least. It is nearest to Shinsaibashi Station.

#7 ADMIRE THE BEAUTY OF OSAKA-JO

A visit to Osaka is not complete without visiting the magnificent Osaka-Jo.

The site is also home to the Nishinomaru Garden, a beautiful garden with 600 cherry trees and a teahouse. It also offers spectacular views of the castle grounds and experiences a peak in tourism during the cherry blossom period, but that does not mean that you should not visit it any other time of the year!

Entrance to castle grounds is priced at ¥600, while entry to the Nishinomaru Garden is priced at ¥200 during off-peak periods, and ¥350 during the cherry blossom season.

Osaka-Jo
1-1 Osakajo, Chou Ward
540-0002, Osaka, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6941-3044
Daily: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Osakajokoen

#8 CAFÉ-HOP AROUND ORANGE STREET

Orange Street, also known as Horie Tachibana, is a hipster street in Osaka. Filled with fashionable stores, florists, boutiques and cafes, the 800-meter long stretch sees a ton of teen visitors, especially on the weekends.

There are a couple of notable cafés to visit in the area, including Biotop Corner Stand, Granknot Coffee and Timeless Comfort Café.

#9 GO IZAKAYA-HOPPING AROUND NAMBA

For those who are unfamiliar with the term, izakaya refers to casual drinking establishments, where customers can enjoy a pint of beer coupled with small dishes. Izakayas are common spots for locals to gather for post-work unwinding.

Namba is known to be one of the best spots in Osaka to get a taste of the izakaya experience. The area sees a great deal of izakayas, so you will have no problem finding one along the way.

#10 THE TOP 3 MUST-TRY STREET FOOD OF OSAKA

Osaka offers a handful of street finger food, but we believe that there are three main ones that you definitely have to try when you are in Osaka.

They are Kushikatsu—which are deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers served with tonkatsu sauce—takoyaki, and okonomiyaki.

We have a post delving deeper into where you can find these street foods all around Osaka.

#11 EXPERIENCE KAPPO

Like how Kyoto has its kaiseki, Osaka takes pride in their cutting and cooking, hence making up the word ‘kappo’. But do not be intimidated by the language if you do not understand, because if any, it is really a very affectionate way of dining.

‘Kappo’ consists of an open kitchen surrounded by counter bar seats, and a team of chefs preparing your dishes right before your eyes.

Check out our post explaining more about kappo, and where you can go to to get the best kappo experience.

#12 VISIT KUROMON-ICHIBA MARKET

Kuromon-Ichiba is one of the most popular food markets in Osaka and is the ultimate foodie destination to tick off the must-eat street snacks. The market has been around for over 170 years and is situated in a friendly little neighbourhood.

There are the usual commercialised stalls, but you will still be able to find a couple of quiant family-run independent stalls all around the market.

Kuromon-Ichiba Market
1 Chome-4-1 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward
542-0073, Osaka, Japan
Tel: +81 6-6331-0007
Daily: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Nippombashi

#13 GO SHOPPING AT UMEDA

Umeda is also known as Kita, meaning the ‘North’ district, and is one of the two main cities in Osaka. It is considered Osaka’s busiest transportation hub, but is also home to some of Osaka’s largest departmental stores and underground malls, making it one of the best places around the city to get your shopping done.

One of Umeda’s main attractions includes the Umeda Sky Building—a towering skyscraper stretching 173 metres tall. There is an open-air observation deck on the roof of the building that allows you to enjoy an unparalleled view of the city.

Mark Osaka down in your travel bucket list. We promise it would be worth a visit. Here are 20 reasons to love Osaka.

Osaka is the birthplace of Okonomiyaki, an all-time favourite street snack in Japan. Okonomiyaki is a savoury pancake that is mostly made out of the pancake batter and cabbage as the base. Sometimes meats or seafood are also added to finish it off, such as slices of pork or octopus. Then, some sweet sauce will be brushed on top, together with mayonnaise.

This popular street snack is synonymous with Osaka’s cuisine and having a piping hot Okonomiyaki on a chilly night in Osaka is one of the best things to do if you ever visit the prefecture.

‘Okonomi’ translates to ‘as you like it’ and ‘Yaki’, means ‘grilled’. Hence, this dish can be tweaked to your liking and you have the choice of adding the toppings you like.

You can find Okonomiyaki in many restaurants and eateries in Osaka, but the best places to have are still the street stalls.

But of course, if you do have it in a restaurant, some of them allow you to grill your own Okonomiyaki.

Some popular places to have Okonomiyaki in Osaka include Mizuno, Okonomiyaki Momiji, Houzenji Sanpei and Okonomiyaki Chibou. Okonomiyaki is a relatively inexpensive dish and you can get a decent one for around ¥407 (approximately S$5) to ¥815 (approximately S$10), hence making it an affordable meal option.

When it gets a little colder during autumn and winter, head out to a bustling street and you can definitely find some street stalls whipping up fresh Okonomiyaki.

Okonomiyaki Places To Try in Osaka
Mizuno – 1 Chome-4-15 Dotonbori Chuo-ku, Osaka
Okonomiyaki Momiji – Tanimachi IS Building 1F, 9-19 Ikutamacho Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Houzenji Sanpei – 1 Chome-7-10 Dotonbori Chuo-ku, Osaka
Okonomiyaki Chibou – Toufuu Building 1-2F, 11-27 Nanbasennichimae Chuo-ku, Osaka

For more recommendations, read our guide on the Top 3 Street Food You Must Eat In Osaka.

The search for the best otoro sushi has come to an end; we found love in Endo Sushi, Osaka.

To say that it is heavenly is but understated. This tiny eatery that sits within Osaka Central Fish Market has been in operations since more than a century ago. It is as old as it is gold, and every trip to Osaka sees us traveling all the way to the market for a bite of heaven. If you only have time for one meal in Osaka, head to Endo Sushi.

To begin, Endo Sushi is an obscure outlet and it can be pretty frustrating trying to hunt that space down. On our first trip there, we walked for a good 45 minutes before finally finding it! But read on, and we will give you directions on how to locate the eatery.

Ok, now. What’s so fabulous about Endo Sushi? Everything. We have no complaints at all, and if there was the tiniest bit to nitpick on, it would be the wait. Small and cosy, the space sits no more than twenty at a time. But good things come to those who have the patience and willpower to wait.

The menu is simple and direct. Four combinations of 5-pc sushi (¥1,050) each for you to take your pick, but you can let the chef know what you prefer and dislike, and he’d tweak the variety accordingly for you. We will not dictate which combination is better. Instead, we will tell you to just place your faith in the toro/ otoro and order a plate of only that.

The fatty tuna so melty, we can’t even… with a faint note of the salty ocean, you will know you have tasted the freshest and the best the moment you sink your teeth in to the thick slab of creamy, fatty tuna belly; all you need is to dap a light layer of shoyu (a communal serving on every table). So sweet, so fresh, and that wondrous feeling of savouring is ephemeral but is one that we cannot forget.

Well, if you do not eat raw fish, we have another reason to entice you to make a visit to Endo Sushi. The anago sushi is our second favourite, and yes, you can do an entire plate of anago sushi only too.

As mentioned, the usual plate of 5-pc sushi is priced at ¥1,050. You can choose from the fixed sets, or do an omakase style whereby the chef will decide what goes on your plate based on the day’s catches – but a piece of toro sushi is guaranteed. The prices of the customized plates vary and are dependent on what you order, but a plate of 5 otoro sushi will only set you back by approximately S$30. Where on earth do you get a better deal?!

When you are at Osaka Central Fish Market, look out for the clock tower, where a huge car park is. Keep your eyes peeled for a short stretch of booth-like shops, with long printed curtains and lanterns hanging.

Endo Sushi will be the outlet on the right. Go on, step in, and have a taste of heaven.

Endo Sushi
1-1-86 Noda Fukushima-ku Osaka City
Tel: +81 6 6469 7108
Mon to Sat: 5am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Noda/ Tamagawa

For more recommendations, read our curated food and travel guides on Osaka.

Osaka is affectionately known as the “Kitchen of Japan”, and with this title, it only means that every meal at the Japanese city will be a good meal. There are no lack of options when dining at Osaka – from street snacks to fast meals at local eateries to a gastronomical display of kappo – and it is impossible to run out of ideas on what to eat because whether you are craving for an okonomiyaki or you need a bowl of piping hot ramen on a cold winter night, Osaka will feed you well.

Prior to our trip, we heard so much about how no one comes back from Osaka skinny, and while that thought did sound a little threatening, we knew we were going to love it. And indeed, we did! Friends and locals shared their favourites and go-to places with us, and we have compiled this Osaka food guide for your easy reference so that you will never have a bad meal at Osaka.

Cafes, local eateries, ramen parlours, sushi bars, exquisite dining in aristocratic ryoteis… you name it, Osaka has it. Enjoy feasting your way through the Kitchen of Japan!

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BIOTOP CORNER STAND

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Over at Horie Tachibana (Orange Street), Corner Stand earns the title of the prettiest cafe. It is like a lush floral wonderland, with little mysteries hiding beyond those cascading vines. Never mind that they serve a funky menu of coffee and pizzas, because for all that we remember, its visually-arresting aesthetics and decor is feast for the eyes and fills our souls with glee.

1/2/4F, Meburo16kan, Minamihorie, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6531 8225
Daily: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Yotsubashi/Shinsaibashi

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BROOKLYN PARLOR

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This was quite a hidden find for us. We stumbled upon Brooklyn Parlor when we were exploring the neighbourhood where we put up at, and boy what a delightful surprise it was for us!

Brooklyn Parlor is a charming and gorgeous space that combines cafe, bar, library, music and dance space all into one. You can either come here for a meal – the food menu has relatively affordable options like hamburgers, pastas and salads – or get a drink with desserts for afternoon tea.

Besides Osaka, Brooklyn Parlor also has branches in Tokyo, Hakata, and Sapporo.

ORE Shinsaibashi Building B1F
2-2-3 Nishi-Shinsaibashi
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6212 7881
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Namba/Shinsaibashi

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CREO-RU

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Most people are probably familiar with Takoyaki, since it is now widely available in many cities around the globe. However, not everyone knows that takoyaki actually originated from Osaka. There are many stalls around Osaka selling this popular street food, but try Creo-ru – one of the most famous takoyaki places.

Creo-Ru is listed in our guide on Osaka’s Top 3 Must-Eat Street Food.

1-6-4 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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DARUMA KUSHIKATSU

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Daruma is a popular chain that is known for kushikatsu – deep-fried meat/vegetable skewers that are coated with light batter and deep-fried to something even lovelier than golden brown - in Osaka and every branch is always packed with loyal patrons – locals and tourists alike. Nothing too fanciful about the place. An average set here is ¥1,800 for 12 sticks and a side.

Daruma Kushikatsu is listed in our guide on Osaka’s Top 3 Must-Eat Street Food.

1-6-4 Dotonbori
Chuoku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6213 8101
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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DOTONBORI KONAMON MUSEUM

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Another place that we would recommend for takoyaki is Dotonbori Konamon Museum which is also located on Dotonbori. It is easily recognisable by its huge octopus signboard.

Dotonbori Konamon Museum is listed in our guide on Osaka’s Top 3 Must-Eat Street Food.

Chuwa Daiichi Building
1-6-12, Dotombori, Chuo-ku
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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ENDO SUSHI

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If you find yourself at the Osaka Central Fish Market, you must not deny yourself of what would be a very memorable sushi meal. It took us a while to locate Endo Sushi, but the search for the best otoro sushi ended at this tiny sushi parlour. We never thought fatty tuna belly could send us to heaven like that, and Endo Sushi’s rendition changed our lives forever. First-timers can opt for the Omakase Set – ¥1,050 for five pieces of sushi – which includes one of that very divine otoro sushi. But if you are not a fan, you will love the anago (conger eel) sushi.

Endo Sushi is listed in our guide on 20 Reasons to Love Osaka.

1-1-86 Noda Fukushima-ku
Tel: +81 6 6469 7108
Mon to Sat: 5am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Noda

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GRANKNOT COFFEE

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Another coffee place in Osaka that we like is Granknot Coffee. The passionate baristas here take their coffee seriously and it is the perfect kind of coffee bar which one can retreat to after exploring Orange Street.

1-23-4 Kitahorie
Tel: +81 6 6531 6020
Nearest Station: Nishiohashi

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HANAMARUKEN RAMEN

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Ramen lovers in the know will find their way to Hanamaruken. This much-loved Osaka ramen chain is easily one of the best in the city. Its signature Happiness Ramen bowl – tonkotsu ramen with slow-braised pork rib – truly lived up the hype.

1-2-1 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6213 0131
Daily: 24hours
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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HOUZENJI SAN PEI

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For an authentic okonomiyaki, head to Houzenji San Pei. Located on Hozenji Yokocho, an elusive lane near the Hozen-ji which has numerous restaurants and eateries, Houzenji San Pei is where locals go to for their okonomiyaki fix.

Houzenji San Pei is listed in our guide on Osaka’s Top 3 Must-Eat Street Food.

1-7-10 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6211 0399
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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ICHIBA ZUSHI

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A hole-in-the-wall sushi joint in Namba, Ichiba Zushi serves pocket-friendly sushi (¥180 - ¥400) in its tiny but atmospheric space.

2-7-3 Shinsaibashi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 7 6221 1882
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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ICHIRAN RAMEN

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No trip to Japan will be complete without having our favourite ramen from Ichiran. An unbelievably rich and thick bowl of tonkotsu ramen – we would fly to Japan just for this.

7-18 Souemoncho
Chuo Ward, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6212 1805
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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KIO RAMEN

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Kio is a ramen chain that has many outlets across Osaka. The noodle and soup broth were decent and nothing to shout about, but the huge savoury pieces of chashu were so fragrant and richly-flavoured that they took our breath away.

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KIGAWA

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Like how Kyoto has its kaiseki, Osaka takes pride in their cutting and cooking, hence making up the word ‘kappo’. But unlike kaiseki, kappo is a lot more casual, and it emphasises on cutting and cooking. The relationship between the chefs and the patrons is build on interaction from the close proximity.

Kigawa – an institution for naniwa-kappo – is where many of the city’s best chefs trained. Stepping in to Kigawa is a fascinating journey on its own. Elusively hidden in a back alley near the Hozen-ji, Kigawa looks just like one of those ancient houses that are better known as machiya.

To learn more about kappo, read our guide on Osaka’s art of dining.

1-7-7 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6211 3030
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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KIMUKATSU

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We’ve tried Kimukatsu in Tokyo before, so when we found out that it has a branch in Osaka, we tracked it down immediately.

Kimukatsu’s tonkatsu is more like a pork mille-feuille that is made up of many thin layers of pork. In addition to the original tonkatsu, they also have other flavours like cheese, black pepper, green onion, garlic, sour plum and yuzu pepper. A tonkatsu set is ¥1,930. Alternatively, you can opt for the Kimukatsu Value Combo – choose any two tonkatsu flavours at ¥2,500 (for 1 pax), or three flavours at ¥3,980 (for 2 pax).

1-9-19 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6212 1129
Mon to Fri: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Sat, Sat & Holiday: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Namba

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KINRYU RAMEN

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Ask anyone who has been to Osaka and they will mention Kinryu Ramen – the ramen shop with the iconic golden dragon statue.

It serves a decent bowl of ramen, but neither the noodle nor the soup broth was particularly memorable enough that we would go back for it. We should believe its affordable price tag attributes to its popularity.

1-1-18 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6211 3999
Daily: 24 hours
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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KUROMON SANPEI

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Primarily a wholesaler, the folks behind Kuromon Ichiba supplies fresh seafood as their core business. But fast forward a few years and they started Kuromon Ichiba, a small retail-cum-eatery for the mass market. Conveniently located in Kuromon Market, drop by for a bowl of ocean goodness with a freshness so sweet, it lingers in your mouth. A bowl of kaisen-don costs only ¥1,200!

2-4-1, Nipponbashi
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6635 1938
Daily: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Nipponbashi

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MAISON DE GIGI

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MAISON de gigi is our go-to spot when we want a break in between shopping. The cafe specialises in waffles which come in flavours like Apple & Cinnamon, Mix Berry, Chocolate Banana and Strawberry. There is also a takeaway kisok where you can grab a waffle and have it on-the-go.

2-2-17 Shinsaibashisuji,
Cyuou-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6210 5944
Daily: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Shinsaibashi

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MATSUSAKA BEEF YAKINIKU M

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Most people are probably familiar with Kobe beef, but have you heard of Matsusaka beef? Also known as Japanese Black, Black-haired Wagyu or Kuroge Washu, Matsusaka beef from the Mie Prefecture is, in fact, a grade higher than Kobe beef. It has one of the highest fat-to-meat ratio, and it literally melts in your mouth, with an unbeatable creamy texture and a sweet aftertaste.

Yakiniku M is a beef paradise, and it carries the prized Matsusaka Beef. You will be in for a meaty feast, and the service is excellent with the staff always checking on you and helping with the BBQ-ing. Reservations are recommended.

1-1-19, Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6211 2917
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 12midnight
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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MIZUNO OKONOMIYAKI

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An institution in Osaka, Mizuno is famous for okonomiyaki – a savoury Japanese pancake that originated from Osaka. It dishes out a variety of pancakes to hungry patrons throughout the day. Among all the options on the menu, the best-seller is the yam flour Okonomiyaki with scallops and roast pork.

Mizuno is listed in our guide on Osaka’s Top 3 Must-Eat Street Food.

1-4-15 Dotonbori
Chuo-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6212 6360
Daily: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Namba/Nipponbashi

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TIMELESS COMFORT CAFE

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Timeless Comfort Cafe at Orange Street combines the concept of a lifestyle store and a cafe. It has a simple menu that offers items such as hamburgers, pancakes and pancakes.

1-19-26 Minamihorie Nishi-ku Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6533 8620
Daily: 10am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Yotsubashi/Shinsaibashi

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URBAN RESEARCH CAFE

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Also nestled within the quaint Horie Tachibana is a cafe that is perfect for people-watching over drip coffees and pretty parfaits. Predominantly furnished with wooden elements, Urban Research Cafe is a multi-story space that has a dine-in area and retail racks. Over at the cafe side, sit by the window and enjoy a peaceful afternoon with a magazine in hand.

1-23-6 Minamihorie Nishi-ku Osaka
Nearest Station: Yotsubashi/Shinsaibashi

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YAEKATSU

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If we lived in Osaka, we’d be having kushikatsu every other day. Anything on a stick – deep-fried – is right up our alley. Order a dozen sticks and down everything with a cold beer and we guarantee that you will be the happiest person on Earth.

In Shinsekai – the old town of Osaka – there are at least sixty eateries that specialise in kushikatsu. But we are pretty much blind to all of them because Yaekatsu is super popular and is the best bet.

Yaekatsu is listed in our guide on Osaka’s Top 3 Must-Eat Street Food.

3-4-13 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
Tel: +81 6 6643 6332
Fri to Wed (Closed on Thu): 10.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Dobutsuenmae

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For more recommendations, read our guide on 20 reasons to love Osaka.

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It is hard to describe Osaka in just one word. But this is not to say it is just another Tokyo. While there have always been comparisons between these two cities, and talks about how Osaka can never be like Tokyo, we beg to differ, for Osaka radiates its own charm and deserves to be loved for many reasons.

From the majestic Osaka Castle to Universal Studios Japan, shopping at Shinsaibashi to cafe-hopping at Orange Street, Instant Ramen Museum to Osaka Central Fish Market, the list goes on and we have picked out 20 things to covet when visiting Osaka.

Mark Osaka down in your travel bucket list. We promise it would be worth a visit.

#1 OSAKA CASTLE

The magnificence of Osaka. Standing tall on stone foundation since 1583, the Osaka-jo is five stories on the outside, and eight stories on the inside. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, this is one of the most famous castles in Japan and is a popular spot during festival seasons, especially when the cherry blossoms bloom. It is the perfect hanami spot.

#2 TAKOYAKI – NOBODY SAYS NO TO OSAKA’S OCTOPUS BALLS

Made of a wheat flour based batter that is filled with diced octopus, pickled ginger, and green onion, these Octopus Balls are the best street food to have when in Osaka. Topped with dried bonito, and a douse of mayonnaise and takoyaki sauce, this popular street snack is cheap and delicious.

Read our guide to Osaka’s Top 3 Must-eat Street Food.

#3 THE KITCHEN OF OSAKA – OSAKA CENTRAL FISH MARKET

Opened to all visitors, this is one bustling place to be at. Lines after lines of stalls selling commodities – fruits, vegetables, cooking condiments and tsukemono (Japanese pickles), kitchenware, and of course, fish – the wholesale market is a colourful place that is such a visual treat. Little eateries selling fresh sashimi and sushi can also be found. And the highlight is most definitely the maguro (tuna) auction show which starts at 4:15am sharp daily.

#4 ENDO SUSHI – SAVOUR THE BEST OTORO SUSHI

And if you find yourself at the Osaka Central Fish Market, you must not deny yourself of what would be a very memorable sushi meal. It took us a while to locate Endo Sushi, but the search for the best otoro sushi ended at this tiny sushi parlour. We never thought fatty tuna belly could send us to heaven like that, and Endo Sushi’s rendition changed our lives forever. First-timers can opt for the Omakase Set – ¥1,050 for five pieces of sushi – which includes one of that very divine otoro sushi. But if you are not a fan, you will love the anago (conger eel) sushi.

#5 SO MUCH FUN AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN

Theme parks are not just for kids. Everyone can have fun at Universal Studios Japan (USJ)! With a series of family-friendly and thrilling rides, a day at USJ is a whole day of excitement and unadulterated happiness. And the best part about USJ has got to be The Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Fans will be more than delighted by this magical adventure at the Park. A basic one-day studio pass costs ¥6,980 for adults and ¥4,880 for kids. Multiple days passes and hotel-cum-studio passes are also available.

#6 OKONOMIYAKI - AMONG THE THREE MUST-EAT STREET FOOD IN OSAKA

For the uninitiated, Okonomiyaki is a savoury Japanese pancake that originated from Osaka. It is not the most photogenic food, but trust us on this – this is something that you do not want to miss when you are here.

Read our guide to Osaka’s Top 3 Must-eat Street Food.

#7 ALICE ON WEDNESDAY – GO DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE WITH ALICE

Have you ever dreamed of being Alice, falling down a rabbit hole and entering a magical world where you could meet The Madhatter, Chesire the cat and gang? If you are visiting Osaka, you will be able to do just that! Alice on Wednesday is a cool kid to look out for on your next trip to those Japanese cities. Think a lifestyle concept store that is put together entirely based on the love for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

Read our guide on Alice on Wednesday. 

#8 DOTONBORI – A GASTRONOMIST’S HEAVEN

Prized as the most popular tourists’ destination of Osaka, Dotonbori is one happening stretch of entertainment and restaurants. You might recall seeing photos of the street that is illuminated with neon signboards, together with its iconic Glico billboard featuring a boy crossing the finishing line. This is it – the life of Osaka, with multiple nightlife and entertainment options, and endless affordable Japanese restaurants and street eats. And because Dotonbori is such a gastronomist’s heaven, you will never go hungry here.

#9 KUROMON-ICHIBA MARKET – THE OTHER OSAKA KITCHEN

Don’t we all love Japanese markets? There is never a dull moment at these markets, and we love Kuromon-ichiba for its 600 meter-long street with stalls selling fish, fruits, vegetables and other essentials for the kitchen. Be in for some street food feasting too, for the offerings here are endless. Apart from seafood skewers like scallops and octopus, you can also find extremely fresh uni (sea urchin) and fugu (blowfish).

#10 SENNICHIMAE DOGUYASUJI – SHOP FOR KITCHEN SPECIALTIES

Osaka prides herself as the kitchen of Japan, and so, we have Sennichimae Doguyasuji that pays homage to its nation. A long stretch of specialty shops where you can find all the kitchen essentials, this 150 meter-long street is perfect for chefs and culinary enthusiasts. New residents of Osaka often find themselves here to fill their kitchens up, but visitors will enjoy an eye-opening experience all the same for the sheer array of merchandise is itself a sight to behold.

#11 KAPPO – THE ART OF DINING IN OSAKA

#12 ORANGE STREET – THE GEM OF OSAKA

This is one amazing area for cafe lovers and hipster shoppers. Whether you are in for some latte-sipping time or select shopping, Orange Street is surely the place for you in Osaka. We love this street so much that during our recent trip, we went back every day to explore the quaint cafes and creative boutiques. No two shops are alike; feel the vibe of the city’s most talented cafe entrepreneurs and designers here, and whip out your cameras for many Instagram-worthy frames and photos.

#13 THE HUBBUBS OF UMEDA

Umeda is the “kita” (north) district of Osaka, and it is one of the two city centres. It is all hustle and bustle at Umeda every day, for it is the transportation hub of Osaka, and a very busy business district. Umeda has been undergoing numerous facelifts for the past years, but the kita district is already a shopping and entertainment paradise. From huge department stores like Hankyu and Daimaru, to the spectacular Umeda Sky Building and Hankyu Entertainment Park, spend a day or two appreciating the happening life at Umeda.

#14 HANKYU, THE MALL OF UMEDA

If your shopping time is brief at Umeda, head straight to Hankyu. With a mind-boggling thirteen levels of fantastic shopping, treat yourself to some real therapy. The line-up of luxury brands is impressive to say the least, as with cult labels and local designers. Fine cosmetics and fragrances are part of the temptation too, and an array of lifestyle brands products will also have you going gaga over. There is a rooftop plaza alongside a few restaurants on the thirteenth level, and the two-level food hall is what dreams are made of.

#15 KUSHIKATSU - DEEP FRIED GOODNESS ON STICKS

Also known as kushiage, kushikatsu is deep-fried meat/vegetable skewers. This is heaven on a stick. Every skewer is coated with light batter and deep-fried to something even lovelier than golden brown; it is delicious and not greasy at all.

Read our guide to Osaka’s Top 3 Must-eat Street Food.

#16 SHOP FOR CREATIVE LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS AT ASOKO

A colourful and whimsical boutique that sells lifestyle products and little accessories, Asoko can be found at Minami-horie. Nothing is exorbitantly-priced, which explains Asoko’s primary success. The creativity of their in-house merchandise attributes largely to its popularity. Expect surprises like rainbow umbrellas, fire extinguisher-shaped erasers and kitchenware in the prettiest colours.

#17 TAKE A STROLL AT UTSUBO PARK

Slow down, let go of your fears and worries, breathe in the crisp fresh air, and take a stroll at Utsubo Park, one of Osaka’s largest public parks; the urban sanctuary is one too lovely to forget life’s stress and problems. There is also a rose garden that offers free admission.

#18 AN EPICUREAN STREET OFF HOZEN-JI

And we stumbled upon this hidden street off Shinsaibashi that is such an epicurean’s dream. Farther down from Hozen-ji (Hozen Temple), this charming cobbled street is really a lane of Osaka’s award-winning ryotei (luxurious traditional Japanese restaurants) that offer one-of-a-kind experiences. The best kappo ryotei – Kigawa – is found here, and so is Yakiniku M, a highly popular yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) institution which serves melt-in-the-mouth Matsusaka beef. Actually, even a simple stroll down this narrow lane is quite a joy to indulge in.

#19 THE INSTANT RAMEN MUSEUM

In other words, cup noodles heaven, and admission is free! Learn about the process of creating instant noodles – which originated in Osaka – and its various developments. But the true fun lies in making your own cup noodles at the “My Cup Noodle Factory” where you choose your own soup base and ingredients, and draw your designs to personalise your very own cup noodles!

#20 SHOP AWAY AT SHINSAIBASHI 

And we end this post with a bang. Shinsaibashi is the city’s main shopping area, and it is one enormous area that houses a mixture of international and local brands. There is a long shopping arcade with various drug stores (shut up and take our money!) and little dessert and coffee houses that make perfect pit stops in between shopping, and Daimaru for those who love Japanese department stores. Luxury boutiques can also be found within the area. There is also a Punk-Indie area called the American Village where youngsters thrive on the quirky finds.

When visitors go to Japan, Tokyo is often the top of the list. In fact, majority of the most-visited destinations in the country are in the capital. Osaka, in comparison, is often neglected and it is a shame because there are so many things to see and do there.

For those of you who don’t know, Osaka is known as the food kitchen of Japan. From michelin starred restaurants, new dining concepts and delicious cheap eats, Osaka is a haven for food lovers. When visiting the city, you cannot leave without eating the top 3 street food that originated from Osaka – Kushikatsu, Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki.

KUSHIKATSU – DELICIOUS ON A STICK

Kushikatsu is famous in Osaka and is known to be one of the identities of that city’s food scene. Also known as kushiage, kushikatsu is deep-fried meat/vegetable skewers. This is heaven on a stick. Every skewer is coated with light batter and deep-fried to something even lovelier than golden brown; it is delicious and not greasy at all.

A typical outlet is usually simple and fuss-free, and usually nothing else but skewers and drinks. You have your chicken and beef, vegetables like brinjal and capsicums, eggs and mushrooms… and the list goes on.

Daruma (1-6-4 Dotonbori Chuoku Tel: +81 6 6213 8101) is one of the most famous restaurants for kushikatsu, with several outlets in Osaka. Here, you can get inexpensive and good kushikatsu; a set with 12 sticks and 1 side is only ¥1,800.

Shinsekai, an old neighbourhood famous for Tsutenkaku Tower and cheap eating spots, is where time seems to stop in the 1960s. There are over 60 restaurants that specialise in kushikatsu in the area, but make sure you go to Yaekatsu (3-4-13 Ebisu-higashi, Naniwa-ku). The long queues outside the restaurant are the best testament to Yaekatsu’s popularity.

TAKOYAKI – THE PERFECT STREET FOOD

Most people are probably familiar with Takoyaki, since it is now widely available in many cities around the globe. However, not everyone knows that takoyaki actually originated from Osaka.

Takoyaki, also known as octopus ball, is a ball-shaped Japanese street food. It is made of a wheat flour based batter that is filled with diced octopus, pickled ginger, and green onion. Topped with dried bonito, and a douse of mayonnaise and takoyaki sauce, this popular street snack is cheap and delicious.

There are many stalls around Osaka selling takoyaki, but try Creo-ru (1-6-4 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku) and Dotonbori Konamon Museum (Chuwa Daiichi Bldg, 1-6-12, Dotonbori, Chuo-ku) – both places are located along Dotonbori, the heart and soul of Osaka.

OKONOMIYAKI – A STAPLE AND MUST-TRY IN OSAKA

For the uninitiated, Okonomiyaki is a savoury Japanese pancake that originated from Osaka. It is not the most photogenic food, but trust me, it is something that you do not want to miss when you are here.

Mizuno (1-4-15 Dotombori, Chuo-ku Tel: +81 6-6212-6360) is an institution in Osaka. It is famous for serving one of the okonomiyaki in Osaka, and it dishes our a variety of pancakes to hungry patrons throughout the day. Among the options on its menu, the best-seller is its yam flour okonomiyaki with scallops and roast pork. Go during off-peak hours, or be prepared to wait in line.

However, Mizuno mainly caters to tourists nowadays, and you probably won’t find locals queueing up just to eat okonomiyaki. For an authentic okonomiyaki, head to Houzenji San Pei (1-7-10 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka Tel: +81 6 6211 0399). Located on Hozenji Yokocho, an elusive lane near the Hozen-ji which has numerous restaurants and eateries, Houzenji San Pei is where locals go for their okonomiyaki fix.

Japan is one of our favourite countries. Melody and I travel to Tokyo frequently because it is such a buzzing and lively city. Kyoto, on the other hand, is one with so much hidden charm, so much to discover, so much to experience and take home.

Besides these two major cities, we had always wanted to visit the countryside and to experience a different side of Japan. So, when Apple Vacations Singapore www.applevacations.com.sg approached us to organise a ladyironchef x Apple Vacations Singapore tour especially for our readers, we said yes immediately! Apple Vacations Singapore specialises in mainly Japan tours, and with their in-depth knowledge of the country, they are an ideal partner that we can work with to make this trip possible.

Back in may, we travelled to Japan to curate the best of Mie, Wakayama and Osaka. And come November, we will be leading a group tour to revisit our favourite picks. It will be a 8D6N trip, and we promise nothing but fun. And good food.

Apple Vacations Singapore is offering an early bird discount of S$200/pax (valid for the first 10 signups) for readers of ladyironchef. Should you be keen to join us for this adventure, kindly email enquiry@applevacations.com.sg or call +65 6533 5161 to book your seat.

Below, we share 20 highlights from the itinerary that is finalised by Apple Vacations Singapore and us, and this is what you can expect from our upcoming tour to Mie, Wakayama and Osaka.

1. LIVE TUNA FILLETING PERFORMANCE AT KUROSHIO MARKET

Kuroshio-Ichiba (seafood market) is known for the biggest catches in West Japan. Here, you can taste the freshest and best tuna. There are three live tuna filleting events every day, and it is quite an eye-opening experience to watch the chef skilfully fillet the huge fish. You get to taste them right after they are sliced, too!

2. VISIT TO YUASA SOY SAUCE FACTORY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PRODUCTION OF SOY SAUCE

Have you ever wondered how much work goes into producing that few drops of shoyu that you dip your sashimi in? And that ponzu sauce that completes your Japanese salad? Now, you have a chance to take an exclusive tour in the soy sauce factory to understand the making of these award-winning Japanese condiments! Soya sauce is such an integral part of Japanese cuisine, and to witness the production process is really quite enriching.

3. EXPERIENCE FRUIT PICKING

Wakayama is a beautiful area in the Kansai region, and it is perhaps most famous for producing fruits. How much fun it would be to pick strawberries in winter, and melons in summer! Come October, we will have the hands-on experience to pick seasonal fruits too.

4. SPECTACULAR SUNSET AT ENGETSU-TO ISLAND

Off the coast of Shirahama (Wakayama prefecture) sits a tiny island with an outstanding sandstone structure. Perfectly arched with seawater passing through, that silent beauty is a lovely spot to catch the sunset, especially when the rays pierce through the hole; so picturesque.

5. SHIRAHAMA, PRISTINE WHITE BEACH AND ONSEN RESORTS

Japan is known for many things, but we have never associated the country with nice beaches. That was until we set foot on Shirahama Beach. Located on the Western coast of Wakayama perfecture, Shirahama is popular for its pristine white beach and onsen resorts.

6. TAIJI KUJIRA PARK, THE LARGEST WHALE MUSEUM IN THE WORLD

Get up-close and personal with the darling of the sea, and watch performances by these cute creatures. The whale museum is tucked away in a quiet part of Wakayama, but it is nothing short of picturesque and beautiful.

7. NACHI NO TAKI WATERFALL, ONE OF THE HIGHEST WATERFALLS IN JAPAN

This 133-meter waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Japan. And quite arguably the most stunning. Standing from afar, it is a mysterious beauty against the Nachi no To (Nachi Pagoda) and its surrounding lush greenery. But as we climbed the steps towards the majestic work of Nature, what greeted us was an extraordinary waterfall that is so huge that we stood in awe and listened as it therapeutically takes its splashes. We were pretty much lost for words, and this is one sight that you have to see for yourself to be truly blown away.

8. STAYING AT ONSEN (HOT SPRING) RESORTS

So the Japanese are known to be very healthy and boast good skin. Onsen is the answer. For the uninitiated, onsen is ‘hot springs’ in Japanese, and Japan being a volcanically active country is blessed with hundreds and thousands of onsen, all with healing contents from the minerals that have people from all over the world flocking to Japan to stay in one of those onsen ryokan (hot spring resorts).

For the upcoming trip, you will be happy to know that you will be treated to both indoor and outdoor onsen experiences. Just a note that soaking in an onsen requires one to be completely naked, so if you are not comfortable, you can book a private bath at a nominal fee.

9. KAISEKI DINNER

The traditional way to dine, and probably the highest level of artistic dining is what the Japanese call ‘kaiseki’. Combining seasonal produce, precise cooking techniques and acute aesthetical directions, the chef whips up a multi-course Japanese meal to pamper the guest.

More often than not, kaiseki is served in aristocratic ryotei (high-end restaurants), and reservations are always required. But you need not go through the hassle of communicating with the ryotei; Apple Vacations Singapore has taken care of this and our tummies are in for a treat! Get your cameras ready, please.

10. TAKE POSTCARD-WORTHY SHOTS AT SANDANBEKI

Rock walls and majestic cliffs, and an underground cave to relive the ancient times when pirates ruled the area. This is one unique experience of Wakayama and a spot where you can take postcard-worthy shots.

11. MORE PHOTO SPOTS AT SENJOJIKI

Another wondrous creation of Nature, Senjojiki sits against the Pacific Ocean, and this plateau is created by the erosion of ocean’s waves.

12. PITSTOP AT ONIGAJO

With its endless horizon and blue skies, the coastline along Wakayama and Mie reminds me of Cinque Terre in Italy. We had a quick pitstop at Onigajo, which is better known as the Demon’s Castle. According to legend, Oni a monster of ancient Japan used to live in this rugged one-kilometer coastline facing Kumano-nada.

13. SEAFOOD LUNCH AT AMA HUT

One of the highlights of our Apple Vacations Singapore tour was having lunch at the Ama Hut. Ama, for the uninitiated, is Japanese woman shell diver. They specialise in diving deep into the ocean to collect abalone, shellfish and pearls. We enjoyed a delectable seafood spread – of abalone, Ise lobster, large clams, scallops and turban shells – that was prepared on the spot by the ama divers, who all have at least 40 years of diving experience.

14. LEARNING MORE ABOUT PEARLS AT THE MIKIMOTO PEARL ISLAND

Have you ever been curious about the process of pearl cultivation? Our first tour had us blown away by the intricate and enriching process, and this is one pit stop that is indeed unique to Mie. Pearl lovers should prep their credit cards for a round of shopping here, too!

15. VISIT TO ISE JINGU, ONE OF THE MOST PROMINENT SHRINES OF JAPAN

Among the most prominent shrines of Japan, Ise Jingu is one huge land of worship with a very rich history. Take a stroll around the premise where the ancient royal family stayed in, and learn about the Japanese’s religious rituals; it feels like a journey back in time.

16. EXPLORE OKAGE YOKOCHO

A bustling street of local snacks, crafts and little souvenirs. Lines of machiya (old wooden houses) make up the fascinating Okage Yokocho, and a few things to look out for includes Akafuku Mochi, soft serve in a myriad of flavours, and ancient Japanese crafts.

17. TASTING MATSUSAKA BEEF, THE BEST JAPANESE BEEF

We know Kobe beef, we know wagyu, but how many know about Matsusaka beef? Known to be the best in Japan, Matsusaka beef is rare and usually only available in Mie. Perfect marbling that melts in your mouth, no trip to Mie is complete without a serving!

Note: In one of the kaiseki dinners at Mie, there will be an optional add-on for Matsusaka beef.

18. IGA-RYU NINJA VILLAGE, THE LAND OF NINJA

Have you ever been curious about the lives of ninjas? If so, you will have an eye-opening experience at The Iga Ninja Museum. We hopped on a ninja train to travel to Ueno in Mie, where the Iga Ninja Museum is located. There, we learned more about the history of ninjas, and watched a live demonstration of ninja weapons and technique.

19. OSAKA CASTLE

What is Osaka without Osaka-jo? Monumental and dignified, this landmark is a must-visit when in the Japanese city. Note: Entrance to the castle is subjected to availability.

20. SHOPPING AND EATING AT SHINSAIBASHI AND DOTONBORI

Dubbed as the most happening area of Osaka, Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori is an undisputed heaven for shoppers and foodies. Streets after streets, little boutiques and eateries make up the famous Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori – from every lady’s favourite Japanese drug stores, sushi bars and all the Japanese snacks, independent fashion boutiques and departmental stores like Daimaru, you haven’t been to Osaka if you haven’t been to Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori.

LADYIRONCHEF X APPLE VACATIONS SINGAPORE 8D6N TOUR TO OSAKA, MIE & WAKAYAMA

- Date: 1 Nov – 7 Nov 2014 (8D6N)

- Tour Fare: S$2,899NETT/pax (inclusive of airport taxes and tipping)

- Flight, itinerary, hotels, and meals are all included in the package

- Extension after the tour on your own is possible, but there is a minimum surcharge of S$200 by the airline, and this is subject to availability.

- Return flights on Singapore Airlines

- There is an early bird discount of S$200/pax, valid for first 10 readers who sign up before 31 July 2014.

- Sign up for the tour by going to Apple Vacations Singapore’s office at 26 Upper Cross Street, email enquiry@applevacations.com.sg or call +65 6533 5161.

To find out more about the tours that Apple Vacations offers, go to www.applevacations.com.sg, like them on Facebook and Instagram.

This post is brought to you by Apple Vacations Singapore.

If we tell you there is a kind of fried food that you can eat a lot without feeling sick from the grease, will you jump in joy? And if we top that up with Japanese beer, will life be a bed of roses?

Now, please do yourselves that favour and go to Osaka for Kushikatsu. If the Japanese term is baffling, well – think skewers of all sorts, coated with light batter, then deep fried to something even lovelier than golden brown. And we swear it is not like your usual fried food that is always overly oily and sickeningly fatty. Okay, we cannot promise it is not fattening but if you want to do fried food, do it in an enjoyable way, yes?

Kushikatsu is famous in Osaka and is known to be one of the identities of that city’s food scene. A typical outlet is usually simple and fuss-free, and usually nothing else but skewers and drinks. You have your chicken and beef, vegetables like brinjal and capsicums, eggs and mushrooms… and the list goes on. Almost anything that can be skewed will taste awesome. Even better when downed with a glass of icy cold beer.

Daruma is a popular chain in Osaka and every branch is always packed with loyal patrons – locals and tourists alike. Nothing too fanciful about the place, just your regular fast food lookalike, with a team of exuberant youngsters, and a fuss-free ordering and serving system that is quite an eye-opener for first-timers. Well, actually, the technology in Japan is eye-opening to say the least, and the world should be inspired.

Every table comes with an attached electronic system and an iPad for ordering. The interface is user-friendly, and displays clearly in tabs the various sets that are available. And there is a conveyer belt that connects the kitchen to all the tables. Your food will be dispatched from the kitchen, and “travel” on the conveyer belt to reach exactly where you are. And you are free to dip your skewers in the sauce bowl. No actual manpower is involved, and you know the thing about machinery – there will be no human errors. No more wrong orders! And from a business owner’s point of view, does this not mean cutting down on unnecessary labour costs and maximizing your efficiency?

We have never seen something like this in Singapore before, and boy were we impressed! And if you are wondering if there ever is human touch, the answer is yes. Despite the heavy usage of technology, the team of waitstaff is ever ready to lend their service. Their presence is always felt, and upon sitting you, they prep you on how to place your order so that no one feels intimidated by the system. And Japanese being Japanese, you can count on them for always being warm, polite and ever ready to serve.

Japanese hospitality, called omotenashi, or the active sensitivity to other people, anticipates the needs and desires of other people. F&B businesses anticipate that customers want convenience and less hassle when ordering food, hence they are quick to adopt technologies that facilitate this desire.

This frees up staff to perform higher order responsibilities such as interacting with customer to make them feel welcome, which value-adds to omotenashi.

Japanese companies also invest in workers who are better trained, more loyal and more informed. Likewise, unions in Singapore are pushing for companies to invest in workers to be better skilled, more productive and able to handle higher order responsibilities, via a Progressive Wage Model which rewards staff for being better workers.

Ever innovating Japan is, and we really hope to see Singapore adapt similar technologies that not only improve customer service, but enhance staff career fulfilment.

On a side note, when at Daruma, an average set is ¥1,800 for 12 sticks and a side. If you ever find yourself in Osaka, this is a place that you must have a meal at.

This message is part of a ladyironchef x Labour Movement project where we seek to share with you insights on the different initiatives by the Labour Movement to give workers in Singapore better jobs, better pay and better work-life balance.

Daruma Kushikatsu
1-6-4 Dotonbori Chuoku
Tel: +81 6 6213 8101