Osaka

Here we go again then. Another trip, another blog for you all to enjoy! This latest effort will document Vicky and I's journey through the islands that make up Japan. Starting in its third largest city, Osaka.

After travelling for the best part of 17 hours, our trip into downtown Osaka was made in darkness, so it wasn't easy to make out what this vibrant city had to offer. However, after a restful sleep, we ventured out to see what was what. Although it is mostly business and industry that Osaka has, it has some hidden gems for tourists too.

We first visited the Osaka castle. A fantastic remodel of a centuries old castle, it was a beautiful fortress set in magnificant and perfectly manicured gardens. I am always impressed by how clean the workers keep their tourist attractions on this side of the world, I think we could learn a bit from their dedication to presenting things in the best possible way. After wandering through the gardens, we had another crack at the subway system. Having used systems like this all over the world, I have to say, the Japanese really make the whole experience fairly easy. English language options on ticket machines, English on signs and announcements and they are always very happy to help. An old Japanese couple that saw we were struggling with the ticket price were very kind and helped us as best as their broken English and my two words of Japanese would allow! The trains, once you work out where you need to go, are superb. Quick, clean and efficient. If only all train travel could be that way!

Next was a trip to one of the tallest structures in Osaka, the Umeda Sky Building, on top of which, is the Floating Garden Observatory. I always feel these towers are excellent as they allow you such an extensive view of the place you're visiting.  Fantastic panoramic photos of all parts of Osaka done,  we did a bit of window shopping. This ranged from beautiful designer shops, to a tiny pet shop in the middle of an amusement arcade! Very strange to see tiny kittens and puppies for sale,  while kids tried to win stuffed teddies in the next shop!!

We meet our group tonight. Hopefully we all get along well and can enjoy this next couple of weeks. I have wanted to tick Japan 'off my list' for a while now, so far I have not been disappointed. The sights, including the stunning blossoms, that we have seen, the public transport we've used and the people have been great so far, I can't wait for more of the same :)