Japan: Day 3

On our third day in Japan, my family and I visited two famous attractions in Osaka: Osaka Castle and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Our agenda for the day was to visit the castle only, but we decided that morning that we would spend some time at the aquarium as well. Both sites were such beauties and I would definitely love to come back to them and explore them once again.

Here are the places we visited on our third day in Japan:

1. Osaka Castle: One of Osaka's heritage sites is the Osaka Castle. Located at Chūō-ku, Osaka, this castle stands as a reminder of Osaka's long history. I may not be an expert in architecture, but the design of the entire place (castle, grounds, and all) was astounding.
The moat and the walls surrounding the castle and its grounds showed that the castle was built in a strategic position that allows for it to not only protect itself from impending attacks, but retaliate as well. The castle has been turned into a museum, which does have an entrance fee, where tourists can tour the interior and learn more about the history behind the castle. Accessible by train, the Osaka Castle is definitely a must-visit in your Osaka trip.

2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Housing several species of aquatic animals, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan was definitely a sight. Visitors can take a tour that starts at the 8th and top floor of the aquarium and work their way down the floors through all the exhibits. A few of the animals at the aquarium were penguins, otters, jellyfishes, and stingrays. Much like most museums and public aquariums, visitors can buy merchandise at the store at the end of their tour. If you're planning to take photos, do know that photography is allowed at the exhibits as long as the flash is off.

3. Tempozan Ferris Wheel: Beside the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the Tempozan Ferris Wheel! We didn't get to go on the ferris wheel because of my anxiety, but I am adding this on here as a recommendation for all the brave souls out there. Riding the Tempozan Ferris Wheel would be the perfect opportunity to unwind from all the walking and touring and to just take in the beautiful view that is Osaka.

4.  Glorious Chain Cafe: Serving American-style sandwiches and burgers as well as pancakes and salad, the Glorious Chain Cafe was such a delight especially after a long day of walking and exploring Osaka. The soft beef and the melted cheese in their Philly Cheesesteak sandwich tasted amazing. I also enjoyed their English Breakfast Iced Tea which did not disappoint! Eating these definitely refreshed my palette after eating so much sushi and curry rice in the past two days! The place is located in Shinsaibashi near the actual station which makes it very convenient especially for those staying outside of Shinsaibashi. I'll definitely be returning to the Glorious Chain Cafe!

Those are all the places we visited on our third day in Japan! All the places that we visited are accessible by train and the staff at the train station are friendly so don't worry about getting lost! I'm happy that we're finally exploring Osaka and I can't wait for the next few days in this Japan series. I do apologize for the long break in between Day 2 and Day 3. Days 4 and 5 will be coming soon so stay tuned for that, but that is all for now!

Until Next Time!
~ Luis ~


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Check the rest of the series here → Japan 2016