The National Museum of Ethnology, or "Minpaku," was established in 1974 to provide the general public with in-depth information on people, societies and cultures throughout of the world. The museum also serves as a research institute for ethnological studies, drawing scholars from universities and academic institutions in Japan and other countries. In addition to its permanent displays, the museum regularly mounts special exhibits on various themes or topics. The museum's collection of ethnological artifacts presently numbers more than 220,000 and is increasing annually.
One of the most visited attractions in the city, the Osaka Aquarium is a must on the city itinerary. The natural environments of the Pacific "Ring of Fire," the volcanic perimeter which surrounds the Pacific Ocean, have been recreated in 14 separate exhibits and populated with over 35,000 specimens representing over 380 species in the aquarium. Located in the harbor area of the city, the aquarium is centered on a huge nine-meter (27 feet) deep-water tank, which represents the Pacific Ocean. A range of animals from otters, seals, and sea lions among others are also a part of different exhibits here. The opening hours are seasonal so it is advised to check them well in advance.
Riddled with an array of rides and attractions, Universal Studios Japan brings the world of movies to life. The theme park is the third in the Universal Studios' family and the first opened outside of the United States. Here, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter recreates J.K. Rowling's fictional world, inviting visitors to cast their own spells and sip on butter beer. Other timeless attractions include a ride though Jurassic Park, virtual roller-coasters and movie sets that offer a glimpse into what goes into the making of onscreen magic. Spread across its gargantuan expanse is a troupe of themed attractions inspired by the cities of New York, San Francisco and much-favored characters like Hello Kitty and Minions. Complete with a range of movie-themed restaurants, Universal Studios Japan appeals to adults and children alike.
Bunraku puppetry began in Osaka in the 17th century as a popular rather than aristocratic form of entertainment. This fascinating art is a combination and fusion of samisen (three-string banjo) music, puppetry and chanting. The lavishly-costumed puppets are large and manipulated by hand rather than by strings. The plots are usually epics driven by the music and are similar in style to kabuki. There are performances in January, April, June, August and November. An English program is available.
The sprawling park surrounding Osaka Castle actually sees far more visitors than the actual castle itself. It is easy to understand why, given its beauty, especially during certain seasons. To the east, there is a grove of about 1,200 plum trees of varying varieties and colors. In November, you will not want to miss the chrysanthemum festival. The cherry trees in spring and other blooming shrubs and flowers are equally popular. Besides flora galore, there are jogging paths, a baseball field and other facilities such as a music hall.
Perched atop a hill, the five-tiered, gold ornamented Osaka Castle towers at a majestic 55 meters (180.446 feet) above the modern city of Osaka. The castle complex is housed within the beautiful Osaka Castle Park, a popular cherry, plum, and chrysanthemum blossom viewing site. The castle's current facade owes its design to Hideyoshi Toyotomi and was restored to its original glory in 1995. The main tower houses the Osaka Castle Museum which offers a fascinating glimpse of the castle's past. Points of interest include the gates like Otemon Gate and Sakuramon Gate which are some of the key features that have survived from the original construction period.
Here at Cosplay Photo, visitors dress as their favorite Anime or Manga characters and then take photos in an authentic studio. The shop does not only take photos of characters from popular fan-fiction, visitors can also dress in traditional costumes like kimonos, yukatas and other garb. It's located in the Shinsaibashi district, a place often considered a tourist trap, however the pictures make great mementos and/or gifts.
The National Museum of Ethnology, or "Minpaku," was established in 1974 to provide the general public with in-depth information on people, societies and cultures throughout of the world. The museum also serves as a research institute for ethnological studies, drawing scholars from universities and academic institutions in Japan and other countries. In addition to its permanent displays, the museum regularly mounts special exhibits on various themes or topics. The museum's collection of ethnological artifacts presently numbers more than 220,000 and is increasing annually.
In the heart of Osaka lies a paradisaical space for music fans and musicians, called Shangri-La. Not elusive as one might think, this paradise is located right in the center of the city, close to the main Osaka train station. Operating as a nightclub as well as a concert hall, Shangri-La is open till the wee hours of the morning, and plays host to local and national talent, as well as talent brought in from abroad. Do see the website or call to know more.
Byōdō-in, the temple pictured on the back of the JPY10 coin, is one of the few remaining edifices dating back to the eleventh-century Heian period. It was built to resemble a phoenix and a bronze pair of the mythical birds, thought to offer protection to the Buddha, perched in the central hall. Regarded as a masterpiece of religious architecture, the temple also houses a stunning seated image of Amida, the Buddha of the Western Paradise or Pure Land. Indeed the temple reflecting in the pond before it is meant to symbolize the Western Paradise of Amida, a form of Buddha.
The legacy of the Great Buddha and the Todai-ji itself are reflections of Japan's admiration of the T'ang dynasty. During the Nara era, the state used Buddhism to make a power statement. The Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsu-den) is renowned as the world's biggest wooden building, and the Buddha statue is known to be the world's biggest bronze statue of the great sage. Emperor Shomu attended an opening ceremony in 752 CE (before gold was put on the Buddha), although another 30 years were spent to complete all the structures in the sprawling temple complex. Todai-ji was twice the victim of major fires and therefore the current buildings date to 1692.
One of the most visited attractions in the city, the Osaka Aquarium is a must on the city itinerary. The natural environments of the Pacific "Ring of Fire," the volcanic perimeter which surrounds the Pacific Ocean, have been recreated in 14 separate exhibits and populated with over 35,000 specimens representing over 380 species in the aquarium. Located in the harbor area of the city, the aquarium is centered on a huge nine-meter (27 feet) deep-water tank, which represents the Pacific Ocean. A range of animals from otters, seals, and sea lions among others are also a part of different exhibits here. The opening hours are seasonal so it is advised to check them well in advance.