Osaka

The third largest city in Japan, Osaka is a fascinating cluster of the highest of high-rises and blinding neon lights. An important financial powerhouse, this metropolis is a brilliant amalgamation of modern and cultural elements. Every skyscraper is complimented by a castle and every shopping complex has a temple as its counterpart. Touch the skies at the Umeda Building; make all of your Harry Potter fantasies come true at the Universal Studios, experience nightlife in all its glory at Dotombori (Dotonbori), and rub shoulders with goth enthusiasts at Amerikamura. All at the same time, do not forget to discover your spiritual self at the Shitenno ji Temple, one of the oldest shrines in the country, and pay homage to the iconic Osaka Castle. Also make sure you sample some octopus filled Takoyaki, the signature dish of the city, before you leave.
Around an hour from Kyoto, Osaka is one of the most important day trips that you can take from Japan’s former capital, if you are not staying in the city like most other travellers. The bullet train ‘Shinkansen’ will get you to the Shin-Osaka Station from Kyoto’s main station in a mere 15 minutes, and you must ideally reserve your seats in advance. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, your cost will be covered. If not, you will have to pay around 1500 Yen for the journey.