TRAVEL DIARY: Jas X Osaka Part 1

Exactly a month after our Japan trip, I finally made time to write about it in this little space. It's hard when you're still not over the high from the trip because you can't seem to go through editing and sorting pics without stopping and day dreaming every memory you have through the pictures. Believe me, I attempted quite a lot of times to sort and make up a story but it comes out too overwhelming for me. 

I don't deny, Japan is my favorite destination to date-- and I think that what I feel about the place is intensified because of the fact that this trip should have happened last year. However, this year's timing couldn't have been more perfect so here's my first story of our first stopover. 

Jp and I set a 7-day vacation last Nov 21-27 for Japan. With the little time that we have, we wanted to make the most of it by flying in to Osaka and flying out in Tokyo. In that way, we will be able to take in as much as we can in our very first (because we plan on going back *crossing fingers**) trip.

Osaka is the perfect place to land if you wanted to get a feel of old and modern Japan. It's perfectly located in the Kansai region which has preserved a lot of Japan's culture dating back in Edo (you have got to read this period in Japanese history - very interesting) era. 

You know you're in Japan, when you see pretty girls holding signs like this outside establishments.

Here is the quaint little neighborhood where we are staying. It lined up with shops and little boutiques.

This is where we stayed. This is very affordable. The room is clean-- we use a shared bathroom but is very comfortable to use with really good toiletries. Jp would have wanted to ask where they buy it.

Jp at the back of the Tsutenkaku Tower-- a very well-known landmark in Osaka.

But of course, Jp gets a hall pass!

One of the shops in the neighborhood. As you can see in the right hand side of the frame, bikes are parked in the sidewalk. Most Japanese go around the neighborhood through bikes. And they're not mountain bikes, mind you. How cool is that?

After we checked in, we immediately hurried out to be able to explore Osaka. Also, I was anticipating to finally eat my first LEGIT Japanese meal. Since we are staying in Osaka for only a day and a half, I only planned on seeing the "touristy" spots first. So off to DOTONBORI we go.

Found it!

There's a lot to see in Dotonbori. My senses are extra happy. I'm like a little child on acid! 

How cute are these doggie costumes!

Some school children going home. I think the uniforms in Japan are really well though of. Can we copy this here in PI?

Ahhhh food stalls! 

Another one-- just take all my YEN!

This one is really something you need try. When you see people lining up, it must be pretty amazing.

The BIG CRAB sign. You won't miss this. From all the blogs I read, they always have this photo.

After all the little eats we had from different food stalls. This one deserved the bigger portion of my bellyyyyy! The number 1 ramen shop in Namba!

MY FIRST LEGIT MEAL! S U C C E S S! OMG! I can't even begin to explain how it tasted. YOU HAVE TO TRY IT!

Dessert, anyone?

Starbucks- I dint buy coffee because I was too full but Starbucks is interesting in Japan. It almost always come with a bookstore or an electronic store. 

Inside Starbucks. The bookstore is at the back of the bar.

While we were walking, we chanced upon Don Quijote (right side). One of some famous store chains in Japan. They sell anything from food, clothing, etc etc.

My mama's namesake. E M M A 

Oh well, too tempted to buy but I stopped myself. It's still our first day. 

Original, pre-loved LV bags up for grabs.

AWWW! I was looking for you. This Glico Man sign is a famous landmark in Osaska. A lot of people tend to meet up here since it's very easy to find. This one is for the books.

Some young performers in one of the street corners. So cool. I wish Filipino upcoming Filipino artists will do this.

Just before going to the next stop, we chanced passing by a small shrine. Enthralled with the lanterns and everything their faith represents.

Wohooo! Writing this gives me so much happy memories. I literally want to hop on a plane and go back. If you happen to read this, please watch out for the 2nd installment! 

x O x O,

jb