Why stay in Osaka?
photo: arcreyes
Osaka is Japan's third largest city, and was once the capital of this island nation. Even though it is no longer the capital, it remains an important city in terms of transportation routes. Osaka is also traditionally known as "the nation's kitchen," and the city is still considered one of the best cities in Japan for dining, drinking and partying.
Visitors to Osaka can take advantage of an extensive subway system and get around the city easily. The Osaka Castle is the city's most visited attraction, and although it is only a concrete reconstruction of the original structure it makes for a lovely photo opportunity (especially when the cherry blossoms are in bloom). The parks around the castle are full of locals enjoying picnics in good weather. Indoor attractions include the Osaka Museum of History, the Osaka Science Museum, Kaiyukan (one of the world's largest aquariums) and the Sumiyoshi Taisha (one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines). Osaka also boasts the largest IMAX screen in the world, so this is the place to see a big movie.
Osaka's subway system not only makes getting around the city simple, it also means you will be able to get to and from your hostel easily. Keep in mind that "hostels" are not just for the young backpacking crowd (even if the property has the word "backpacker" in the name!) - they're ideal for any budget traveler who's interested in meeting other travelers. A few Osaka hostels worth mentioning are highlighted below.
Sumo Backpackers is a one minute walk from the Nakatsu Station of the subway, and a 15 minute walk from JR Osaka Station. It is in the Nakatsu area of Osaka. Weekly Mansion Osaka at Otemae has daily rates, but is ideal for longer stays at weekly or monthly rates where guests can enjoy Osaka from their own furnished apartment.
Kaneyoshi Ryokan is in the heart of Osaka's downtown area and calls itself a Japanese style hotel. It is only 20 minutes from the Osaka Castle. Osaka Downtown Hostel has accommodations for short or long term stays right in downtown Osaka, and there are plenty of perks for guests at this hostel, too.
If none of these hostels sounds like it's the right one for you, don't worry. There are other Osaka hostels listed here which you can choose from. Just keep browsing the descriptions until you find the one that suits your needs.
Need anything else for your trip? You can look for the best deals on cheap airfare to Osaka and book your ticket now. You can also learn more about the area in our Osaka Travel Guide.
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