Which is better Namba or Umeda?
Which is better Namba or Umeda? Umeda is a more modern area and has better links to cities outside of Osaka, such as Kyoto, Kobe, Wakayama, and Kanazawa. Namba, on the other hand, is a long-established area in Osaka with more history, and it also has the advantage of colorful nightlife, and access to both traditional and modern entertainment.
What is the best month to go to Osaka?
You can visit Osaka at any time of year because the weather is temperate. The best times to visit Osaka are the fall (October/November) and spring (March/April/May). Summer (June/July/August) in Osaka is hot and humid. Winter (December/January/February) in Osaka is cold but not too cold for traveling.
Is Nara closer to Osaka or Kyoto?
Nara is 35 kilometers south of Kyoto City and about 28 kilometers east of Osaka. Thus, it's within easy day trip distances of these cities. Of course, if you want to slow down and enjoy Nara a bit more, it makes sense to stay a night in Nara to really explore the area.
Can I use Suica card in Osaka?
Smart cards like Icoca, Suica and Pasmo are generally valid across Japan, so don't worry about which one you buy. You can use Icoca/Pasmo/Suica for all trains, subways and buses in Osaka. You can also use Icoca/Pasmo/Suica at many shops, especially convenience stores.
Is Osaka more fun than Tokyo?
If you want to be at the heart of everything, Tokyo can be your best bet. But, if you want to enjoy a lower cost of living and friendlier neighbors, Osaka can be the better choice. Both cities have something unique to offer, and living in either city can be a fantastic experience.
Where to avoid in Osaka?
In general, there are no “ghetto” level bad neighbourhoods in Japan, but some locals avoid going to Shimanouchi and Nishinari (considered to be populated with many nightlife workers, prostitutes, dealers and yakuza). Good neighbourhoods are Suita (in the outskirts of Osaka), Kujo, Taisho, Horie and a few more.
How many days in Kyoto vs Osaka?
Osaka and Kyoto 1-Week Itinerary Summary A good breakdown is 2 days in Osaka and 4 in Kyoto. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the most convenient airport to Osaka and Kyoto. A Japan Rail Pass is not a good idea for this itinerary, but a Kansai Thru Pass may be.
What part of Osaka is best to stay?
The Takeaway The best places to stay (in order of preference) are Kita, Minami, Honmachi (Central Osaka) and the Shin-Osaka Area. Other decent places to stay include the Tennoji Area and the Osaka Castle Area.
Is Nara line covered by JR Pass?
The JR Nara line takes 45 minutes by express train or 70 minutes if you catch a local train from Kyoto Station. It's covered by the JR Pass but the price is 690 yen if you don't have one. This is the best way to get from Kyoto to Nara if you have the Japan Rail Pass.
Where not to stay in Japan?
- Kamagasaki, Osaka. The largest homeless population in Japan is in Kamagasaki. ...
- Kabukicho, Tokyo. Not only is Kabukicho the biggest red-light district in the country, but it's also the largest in the world. ...
- Roppongi, Tokyo. ...
- Shinsekai, Osaka. ...
- Ueno, Tokyo.
What is the best way to get around Osaka?
- Subways and trains are the best way to get around Osaka.
- A prepaid Icoca card is the BEST way to pay for transport (but a Suica or Pasmo card from Tokyo will also work just fine).
- Taxis are excellent but expensive.
- Buses aren't recommended for short-term visitors.
- See below for full details.
How many days in Osaka is enough?
It's known for having some of the best food in Japan and it offers plenty to do for first-time visitors. If it's your first trip and you don't have a lot of time, then I'd say that 3 days in Osaka is ideal. It'll give you enough time to see the city's top attractions without feeling rushed.