Considered as the Gateway to Western Japan, Osaka is conveniently located near two of
Japan?s ancient capitals, Kyoto and Nara. Originally referred to as Naniwa, Osaka was once the
imperial capital of Japan and a merchant city serving as the centre for rice trade during the Edo
period, therefore became known as the ?the nation?s kitchen?. Modern day Osaka is the
country?s second-largest city and a popular food destination with a large variety of dining
scenes from street food, local eateries, chic cafes, to Michelin star restaurants.

1. Japan?s Culinary Mecca - Dotonbori / Shinsekai

Osaka is known as Japan? s culinary mecca, offering unrivaled dining scenes and food experiences. With restaurants and food stalls occupying every corner of the city, Osaka also boasts over 90 Michelin starred restaurants, ensuring guests an abundance of delightful culinary offerings. Stroll along the Dotonbori River, the best place to enjoy street food in Osaka and the center of a popular sightseeing destination with spectacular social media moments.

2. One of the World?s Must-Go Cities

Osaka has been highlighted as one of the world?s most desirable cities to visit, and is on the list of ?52 Places to Go in 2017? by nytimes.com a fascinating and comfortable destination that continues to attract world travelers both for business and leisure.

3. Quintessential Japanese Tea Tradition

Osaka lays claim to a historic past of Japan?s green tea culture and water purity. In Japan, using only the purest water to prepare traditional green tea is essential. If you stay atThe Ritz-Carlton, Osaka, you can enjoy an exquisite vintage tea experience at Hanagatami restaurant.

4. Bunraku, The Sophisticated Puppet Theater

One fascinating attraction you should not miss when visiting Osaka is the Bunraku puppet theater. The Bunraku performance appears to come alive in the eyes of the audience, artistically performed together with music from shamisen (a three-stringed instrument), chanters and stunning costumes.

5. Shopping Spree

Tenjinbashi-suji isthe longest shopping street in Japan, with over 600 specialty shops, restaurants, and bars. From high fashion branded shops, department stores brimming with delectable Japanese cosmetics, shopping malls and boutiques, to large electronic department stores with all the latest tech and gadgets.

6. Easy Access to Hiroshima, Nara and Kyoto

Osaka is the second largest city in Japan after Tokyo, and is easily accessible from Kansai International airport and Itami International Airport. Take advantage of Osaka? s easy access to visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the neighboring cities such as Kyoto, Nara and Hiroshima.

7. Captivating Cultural Sites and Attractions

The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka is a good hotel to stay at while you are in town. It'sperfectly situated in the heart of the prestigious Nishi-Umeda district, close to its treasured cultural heart. Discover Osaka?s captivating cultural sites and attractions. For example,The Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, Osaka Castle, Fish Market Kuromon,The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum,Universal Studios Japan.