Osaka, located on the main island of Honshu, is Japan's third largest and second most important city. Historically, the city was Japan's first commercial and industrial hub and main trade centre until Tokyo came to dominate in the early 20th century. Osaka is divided into two separate centres: Kita (north) Osaka, the main business district and Minami (south) Osaka, the entertainment, shopping and nightlife area. The city itself has many attractions but it is also a convenient base to visit nearby Kyoto, Kobe and Nara. 

Osaka Castle is one of city’s main tourist attractions. Dating from the early 16th century. Within the grounds of the imposing castle is the Osaka City Museum which has an extensive collection of artefacts detailing the history and culture of Osaka from the earliest times.

Shitennoji Temple, is Japan's first ever Buddhist temple dating back to the 6th century, although the oldest remaining structure is a 13th-century torii gate at the main entrance. A visit to the 103m tall Tsutenkaku Tower will be rewarded with superb views of the city and Mt. Rokko in the distance towards Kobe. This tower, constructed in 1912 and modelled on the Eiffel Tower, has become a symbol of Osaka.