Osaka Prefecture
Osaka Prefecture was once known as 摂津国 (settsu-no-kuni), 河内国 (kawachi-no-kuni), and 和泉国 (izumi-no-kuni). It has long been known for its towns that flourished through merchant culture, and because it served as a major distribution center for food and everyday goods during the Edo period (1603-1868), it became known as “Japan’s Kitchen”. The people of Osaka Prefecture are known for being sociable and (quite) friendly. This is a part of the country with very little social distance between people; one can easily make friends, even when simply going out for a drink. This is a unique and fascinating part of Japan that visitors will want to return to again and again.
Japan is well-known for many foods. Osaka Prefecture is a part of the country where many of these delicious and sensational foods can be found. It's also a prefecture where several classic Japanese dishes originated. One such food is 串カツ (kushi-katsu). This dish resembles 焼き鳥 (yaki-tori—grilled chicken and vegetables served on skewers), as it too is served on skewers. However, what sets kushi-katsu apart is that it’s deep-fried. And it’s not limited to chicken; a variety of ingredients, including meat, seafood, and vegetables, are also served. Osaka Prefecture is also known for dishes such as たこ焼き (tako-yaki), also known as “octopus balls”. As the name suggests, these are small ball-shaped snacks with pieces of octopus inside. They're cooked on a special hot plate with many round molds. The balls are rotated several times to ensure they’re evenly cooked, then served with toppings such as tako-yaki sauce, mayonnaise, scallions, and even red pickled ginger. Nearly all of these foods pair wonderfully with alcohol. Those who enjoy drinking in particular will find the food culture of Osaka Prefecture especially appealing.
When it comes to prefectures in Japan rich in history, Kyoto Prefecture is (probably) what comes to mind first. However, Osaka Prefecture also played an important historical role. In particular, the city of Sakai is well-known for its history. Items such as guns were once produced here. Guns were first introduced to Japan by the Portuguese in 1543. Tachibanaya Matasaburō, a merchant from the city of Sakai, learned how to manufacture them. From there, the first guns made in Japan were produced by craftsmen who had originally specialized in sword-making. Japanese guns (initially) adopted techniques from sword-making.
The city of Sakai is also well known for 古墳 (kofun—ancient burial mounds or tombs). Here, the 仁徳天皇陵古墳 (nintoku-tennou-ryō-kofun), the biggest tomb in the country, can be found. Resembling a giant keyhole, it’s surrounded by a forest. Partly because of this, experts aren't entirely sure when or for what exact purpose it was constructed. On the 21st floor of the Sakai City Hall, one can find an observatory tower. From here, visitors can enjoy a fantastic view of the magnificent nintoku-tennou-ryō-kofun itself. But it’s not just this one burial mound; several others were also built around it. Together, they beautifully shape the surrounding landscape, creating a spectacular view. Those with an interest in traditional Japanese culture and history will find the city of Sakai fascinating. It’s also a well-maintained city where one can enjoy sightseeing in comfort.
Modern-day Osaka Prefecture is also known for comedy. Many comedians in Japan are from here, and the country’s most famous comedy theater can also be found here. The Namba Grand Kagetsu is known as a theater dedicated exclusively to comedy. As mentioned above, people from Osaka Prefecture are generally more cheerful and outgoing than those in other parts of the country. Sometimes considered the “Americans of Japan”, they often speak their minds openly. They also frequently express themselves with humorous words and playful expressions, and they're well known for regularly telling jokes. There's a casual and welcoming atmosphere here that one will not easily find in other parts of Japan.
With delicious food, a long and fascinating history, and friendly and outgoing people, Osaka Prefecture has endless charm. It’s also home to the Tenjin Festival—one of Japan’s three most famous festivals—making it a place visitors will want to return to again and again. Whether traveling by bullet train or highway bus, it’s easy to get here. There’s also much to enjoy without a car, making it a wonderful addition to any Japan travel itinerary. When traveling across Japan, be sure to visit Osaka Prefecture as well. We hope everyone can experience the unique charm found here.
