I arrived in Osaka from Kyoto via a half-hour Shinkansen bullet train ride. Navigation proved challenging as English signage becomes scarce; station maps are entirely in Japanese, and Google Maps station names don't perfectly match local maps due to romanization differences and numbering variations.

A helpful Japanese stranger assisted with directions, providing a map and clear transit instructions before disappearing into the crowd. I headed out on an ambitious day-trip itinerary.

Osaka Castle

Rated 3.5/5 stars, the castle grounds occupy an expansive area surrounded by a curved river. Located near Tanimachiyonchome Station (a 10-minute walk), the castle offers impressive city views. During the visit, I observed martial artists practicing Kendo in pavilions, their rhythmic yells echoing across the grounds.

Osaka Aquarium

The aquarium proved to be a standout attraction accessible via subway and a brief walk. I documented various marine life through photographs, including sharks, rays, jellyfish, and sea lions, describing it as amazing based on recommendations from multiple travel blogs.

Culinary Experience

The day concluded with a planned conveyor belt sushi experience, rounding out my Osaka visit before proceeding to Koyasan the following day.