Osaka: The Heartbeat of Japan’s Cultural and Culinary Soul

• Helloおはようございます
  [ohayou gozaimasu]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sayounara]
• Yesはい
  [hai]
• Noいいえ
  [iie]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [douzo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [arigatou gozaimasu]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [sumimasen]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [ogenki desu ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [genki desu. anata wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wakarimasen]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せていただきたいです
  [menyuu o misete itadakitai desu]
• I don't eat meat肉を食べません
  [niku o tabemasen]
• Cheers!乾杯!
  [kanpai!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [okaikei o onegaishimasu]

• Help!助けて!
  [tasukete!]
• Go away!行きなさい!
  [ikinasai!]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んで!
  [keisatsu o yonde!]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んで!
  [isha o yonde!]
• I'm lost道に迷っています
  [michi ni mayotteimasu]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [guai ga warui desu]

• I'd like to buy...買いたいです
  [kaitai desu]
• I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [miteru dake desu]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [ikura desu ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [sore wa takasugimasu]
• Can you lower the price?値引きしてもらえますか？
  [nebiki shite moraemasu ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [ima nanji desu ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [ichiji desu]
• Half past (10)十時半
  [juuji han]
• Morning朝
  [asa]
• Afternoon午後
  [gogo]
• Evening夕方
  [yuugata]
• Yesterday昨日
  [kinou]
• Today今日
  [kyou]
• Tomorrow明日
  [ashita]
• 1一
  [ichi]
• 2二
  [ni]
• 3三
  [san]
• 4四
  [shi]
• 5五
  [go]
• 6六
  [roku]
• 7七
  [shichi]
• 8八
  [hachi]
• 9九
  [kyuu]
• 10十
  [juu]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [...wa doko desu ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [juusho wa nan desu ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(地図で)見せてもらえますか？
  [(chizu de) misete moraemasu ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次の(バス)はいつですか？
  [tsugi no (basu) wa itsu desu ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)(...)へのチケットをください
  [(...) e no chiketto o kudasai]

Osaka's history dates back to ancient times when it was known as Naniwa. In the 5th and 6th centuries, Naniwa served as a vital hub for cultural and commercial exchange between Japan, China, and Korea. During this period, it was an important port and gateway for the introduction of continental culture and technology.

Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks, was constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent warlord during the Sengoku period. The castle played a crucial role during the unification of Japan. It was the site of several significant battles, including the Siege of Osaka, which marked the end of the Toyotomi clan's power.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), Osaka flourished as a center of commerce and trade. Known as the 'Nation's Kitchen,' Osaka was the primary distributor of rice and other goods throughout Japan. The city's merchants, known for their business acumen, established a vibrant economy and contributed to the development of a unique urban culture.

The Meiji Restoration of 1868 brought about significant changes in Osaka as Japan rapidly modernized. The city became an industrial powerhouse, with the establishment of factories and infrastructure. Osaka's port was modernized, and the city expanded with new transportation networks, contributing to its growth as an economic center.

Osaka suffered extensive damage during World War II due to air raids. However, the city underwent rapid reconstruction in the post-war period. By the 1960s, Osaka had rebuilt itself as a major industrial and commercial hub. The 1970 Osaka Expo showcased Japan's recovery and technological advancements on the global stage.

Today, Osaka is a vibrant metropolis known for its modern architecture, bustling shopping districts, and rich culinary scene. The city's culture blends traditional Japanese elements with contemporary influences, making it a dynamic and diverse destination. Landmarks such as Umeda Sky Building, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan highlight Osaka's mix of history and modernity.

Osaka is served by two major airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM). Kansai International Airport is the primary international gateway, located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay. It is connected to the city by various transportation options including the JR Haruka limited express, the Nankai Airport Line, and limousine buses. Osaka Itami Airport primarily handles domestic flights and is connected to the city by monorail and buses. Additionally, Osaka is well-connected by Shinkansen (bullet trains) to other major cities in Japan.

Osaka boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and trains. The Osaka Metro is the most convenient way to get around the city, with several lines connecting key areas. JR West operates trains that connect Osaka to neighboring regions and cities. IC cards like ICOCA and Suica can be used on most public transport for seamless travel. Taxis are also available, though they are more expensive. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport, and bike rental services are widely available.

The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, especially in hotels, larger restaurants, and retail stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, food stalls, and traditional markets. ATMs are readily available and many accept international cards, particularly those at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart.

Osaka is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is wise to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas like Namba and Umeda. While violent crime is rare, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist spots. The areas of Nishinari and Shinsekai have higher crime rates compared to other parts of Osaka, so exercise caution if visiting these areas.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police assistance and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. English-speaking operators are available. Osaka has several hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, pharmacies (薬局 'yakkyoku') are common and can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress neatly and conservatively. Avoid overly casual attire in formal settings. Religion: Do respect religious sites by removing your shoes and dressing modestly. Public Transport: Do follow queueing etiquette and keep conversations quiet. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do bow when greeting people and use polite language. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and show appreciation for the food. Don’t tip, as it is not customary in Japan.

To experience Osaka like a local, explore the hidden alleys and food stalls in Namba and Dotonbori. Visit local sento (public baths) for a traditional bathing experience. Try joining local events or festivals, such as Tenjin Matsuri or the cherry blossom viewing in spring. Engage with locals at izakayas (Japanese pubs) where you can enjoy authentic food and conversation. Don’t miss out on Osaka’s street food, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki.