I’m in Japan! After my flight got cancelled in the evening because of a nasty typhoon in the area I finally arrive a day late.
Getting off the train in Osaka I’m bombarded with bright lights, vending machines and sushi restaurants as I make my way through the din to my hostel - excited!
I’ve been here in Osaka for a few days so far and am absolutely in my element; it’s a geek/foodies paradise.
Japan, where have you been all my life!
Osaka is incredible: Den Den town is filled with all the geek hobby shops from plastic figurines and trading cards to video games (I buy myself a super sexy Game Boy Micro - Famicon Edition) and even maid cafes.
Doutonbori is filled with bright lights, restaurants, video arcades, shopping arcades and of course the Japanese addiction of Pachinko.
Amerika Mura is filled with hip coffee shops, restaurants and fashion stores (I do some shopping).
Umeda has the cool Sky Building with stunning views from the top and bottom as well as a Pokemon Centre.
The first full day I do a small trip to Kobe to track down and find some of this world famous beef. I manage to find some, but sadly I get my exchange rates a little mixed up and end up eating in a swanky restaurant which costs about $100 USD for a three course lunch and a beer… but it was the best meal I ever head. Seriously, Kobe beef makes all other beef taste like tofu - bland, tasteless tofu.
Osaka has also given me a chance to meet up with James, one of the guys I used to work with and we explore Osaka city and the Castle.
I also get to meet with Jess, one of my school friends from back in Burnham, and some of her English teaching colleagues - Tyler, Allie and Nicole - and visit Nara, among other things.
Phew, a bit rushed, but Japan is so amazing. I thin I’m going to be non-stop whilst I’m here. Just look at all the photos in awe: https://www.flickr.com/photos/14859193@N07/sets/72157636715454833/
*Kawaii = Cute in Japanese