Osaka

 AirportGet your teeth into Osaka and, after landing on the city’s impressive man-made island airport, you’ll quickly discover its reputation as the ‘nation’s kitchen’ – the gourmet capital of Japan – with incredible takoyaki (octopus dumplings) and delicious udon (noodles) both real regional specialities.

Must See:
The Japanese obsession with fish extends to education and conservation – take in the enormous Osaka Aquarium and its 35,000 aquatic animals and get up close and personal with its collection of whale sharks.

Must eat at:
Seafood is high on the menu at Zuboraya in the Minami district of the city, with Japanese puffer fish a real speciality here. Language won’t be a problem – there’s a large picture menu to help you choose.

Must be there for:
Don’t miss Hanami time – when the cherry blossom is in full bloom in late March and early April. Top viewing sites for this white and pink profusion include both the Castle Park and Amenity Park.

Well-travelled facts:
· The city’s main airport, Kansai, is built on an artificial island 4km long in Osaka Bay.
· The Museum of Oriental Ceramics in Osaka is home to 2,000 pieces of Asian ceramic art.

Visa:
British citizens travelling to Japan for business or pleasure do not ordinarily need a visa for stays of up to six months. As restrictions apply, for full information, visit http://www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp/en/visa/visa-uk_irl.html