Japan Train Trip: Episode 2

The first day of our journey, Big Brother and I, was a trip from Tokyo to Osaka. We will be staying there for a while and will use it as a base for our travels around the area. First, we need to get ourselves out of Narita Airport. For speed, we chose to use the NEX service.

The first thing I saw when I got out was these guys.

After successfully exchanging our JR Pass and reserving seats for the Shinkansen to Osaka, we headed into the city.

From this point forward, we will primarily utilize the Shinkansen, often referred to as the Bullet Train, or more formally, the Super Express, for our travels. Let's embark on our journey!

The first train we took to Osaka was one of the 7 main lines, the Tokaido Shinkansen, which was the world's first bullet train. This line runs between Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, and Osaka.

There are different train types available depending on your desired travel time. The fastest option, the Nozomi train, stops at only a few stations. However, the Nozomi is not covered by the JR Pass. The Hikari train, the second fastest option, stops at more stations and is covered by the JR Pass. The slowest option, the Kodama train, stops at every station. Therefore, we recommend taking the Hikari train for a balance of speed and convenience.

For a comfortable train journey, it is highly recommended to book a reserved seat in advance. This ensures a guaranteed seat and eliminates the hassle of finding one on board. The reservation process is quick and affordable, especially for longer journeys. The trip from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka Station takes approximately 150 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy a pre-packed bento box meal. This allows for immediate sightseeing upon arrival.

We arrived in Osaka shortly after.

Upon arriving in Osaka, we took the opportunity to visit some of its key landmarks, despite our initial plan to spend minimal time there, primarily using it as a base for train journeys to other cities.

We visited Shitennoji Temple, the first Buddhist temple in Japan. Although it appears new, the temple is over 1,400 years old. It is not only the oldest recorded Buddhist monastery in Japan but also one of the oldest temples in the country, having been built in 593 AD.

The inner sanctum of the temple complex houses a five-story Japanese pagoda (Gojunoto), the Golden Hall (Kondo) enshrining the Nyorai Kannon statue, and the Dharma Hall (Kodo). These structures are aligned along a north-south axis and enclosed by a three-sided corridor with gates on each side: the South Gate, the West Gate, and the East Gate. This architectural style, influenced by China, makes this temple one of the oldest architectural prototypes in Japan.

The current temple structure is not the original ancient building, as it was destroyed by war on multiple occasions. The present-day temple has been meticulously reconstructed to reflect the original architecture and design. The most recent restoration was completed in 1963.

This is a significant temple that is worth a visit if you are in the area.

For shopping enthusiasts, Osaka offers a plethora of diverse shopping districts. If you're planning to splurge, make a list and visit them all – you're guaranteed to find everything you need. However, for those who prefer to avoid shopping, let's take a stroll through some bustling areas to get a taste of the vibrant atmosphere.

Sennichimae Doguyasuji: A Culinary Paradise in Osaka

Sennichimae Doguyasuji, a vibrant shopping street in Osaka, is a haven for culinary enthusiasts. Established in 1970, this bustling thoroughfare boasts a diverse array of shops catering to every culinary need. From essential kitchenware and ingredients to specialized equipment and uniforms, Sennichimae Doguyasuji offers an unparalleled selection for both professional chefs and home cooks.

The street's vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by the presence of shops selling miscellaneous items such as curtains, lamps, and restaurant signage. This eclectic mix adds to the charm of Sennichimae Doguyasuji, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Homemakers particularly adore this street, as its abundance of affordable and high-quality goods makes it a one-stop shop for all their culinary needs. Whether seeking inspiration for their next culinary masterpiece or simply replenishing their kitchen essentials, Sennichimae Doguyasuji promises an unforgettable shopping experience.

Ebisubashisuji Shopping Street is a popular pedestrian street in the Dotonbori district. Although it is not the longest shopping street, it is filled with many shops that are popular with Thai people. The street offers a wide variety of goods, including bags, shoes, clothes, and unique items. Prices are generally affordable, with most items costing around 90 baht. If you see something you like, don't hesitate to buy it, as you may not be able to find it again later.

The iconic Glico Man neon sign has become a prominent symbol of Osaka. Situated along the Ebisubashi Bridge, a small bridge connecting the bustling Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori districts, the renowned sign stands as a beacon for Osaka's vibrant shopping and entertainment scene.

The first Glico Man sign was installed in 1935. It resembled a thermometer with a small Glico Man (in the original logo style) at the top. The sign has been modified several times since then, and the current version (the 6th generation) depicts the Glico Man running on a track. Behind the Glico Man is a large red circle, symbolizing the sun and the Japanese flag. The background is clean and simple, making the sign stand out beautifully. During the day, the sign is not illuminated, showing only the classic colorful canvas. Taking a picture with this sign is a must-do for anyone visiting Osaka.

If you're a fan of takoyaki, don't miss the 'Takoyaki Dotonbori kukuru' shop by the canal, with its giant red octopus mascot. This popular spot is a must-try for any visitor to the area. Nearby, you'll find the duty-free shop Don Quijote (also known as "Donki" to locals). If you're a fan, be sure to check it out.

Let's travel and shop to our hearts' content. Then, we'll move on to exploring other cities.

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