Osaka Adventure Guide: Best Things to Do & Travel Tips from Shanghai

Our dream Japan adventure is finally coming to life – and it’s all about those 20,000 daily steps! 🚶‍♀️ Every blister will be worth it for these unforgettable experiences!

First destination: Vibrant Osaka! Skip the generic tourist checklist – we focused on what truly excited us:
✨ Namba’s electric energy
✨ Tsutenkaku’s nostalgic charm
✨ Shinsaibashi’s endless shopping
✨ Dotonbori’s iconic food scene

Now, let’s talk about Osaka’s real treasure – the FOOD! Here are our can’t-miss picks:

🔥 Takoyaki Alert:
The legendary octopus balls near Dotonbori Bridge are life-changing! Pro tip: Join the queue (yes, it’s long) and order their signature flavor. At ~600 yen per portion (or splurge on the beer combo for 800-1000 yen), it’s pure street food magic.

🥇 Kinryu Ramen Champion:
Don’t let the modest stall fool you – this Dotonbori gem serves soul-warming bowls! Their springy homemade noodles with kimchi and chive accompaniments created a flavor explosion we’re still dreaming about.

⚠️ Torikizoku Caution:
This popular chain left us heartbroken. Our Dotonbori branch experience? Burnt skewers and bitter disappointment. Maybe an off day, but we won’t be risking it again.

🍜 Menya Miyata Tsukemen Revelation:
Shinsaibashi’s tiny noodle shrine demands dedication – we joined the 10 AM queue for their 11 AM opening! The tsukemen ritual was unforgettable:
1️⃣ Inhale the wheaty aroma
2️⃣ Taste noodles pure
3️⃣ Dive into rich broth
4️⃣ Customize with lemon/pepper
Pro tip: The “geared” texture noodles shine, and small portions are already massive!

Next stop: The Wizarding World awaits at Universal Studios!!! ✨🎢