O s a k a 2

We were part of being a celebrity today, when we got 'ambushed' by Rozan(ロザン) duo Hirofumi Suga(left) and Fuminori Ujihara(right). 

We were looking for Yodobashi outside Osaka Station when these comedians appeared from nowhere and offered to take us there. Along with them were camera crew who immediately started to film us.

We were astounded and did not know who they were at first and if they were sincere. As we were led along, we noticed the locals started to call out to them. Many have their mobile phones out to take their photos. 

We found out later they were part of a TV programme to help strangers, especially tourists, find their way around Osaka. They happened to chance upon us lost souls. The producer told us we could be featured in the show soon. WOW!   

 The friendly Hirofumi Suga.

 Noticed the small eyes similarity? Oops.

Celeb for a day.

Yes. We found Yodobashi.

Funny posters we found inside the subway.

It helps to liven up the morning rush hour.

What is this? Make a guess?

Yes, it is the row after row of Gachapon!

Cars toy.

What happened to the roof?

Diorama Osaka

Skyscraper in dramatic tone.

Time to chill.

We visited a town where the Korean community is.

B&W brought out the mood perfectly.

Street vendor peddling his artwork.

Off for a catch, anything would do.

Love the 12mm under low lights.

Vendor preparing to call it a day.

Tasty Jeon.

Korean delicacy marinated with spicy Gochujang paste.

A Hanbok boutique.

A place to chill out inside our hotel.

Spiderman guarding his Takoyaki.

Dinner is still early, so we have a reason to have some.

The hotel staff recommended this yakitori place a street down the road.

The food is fabulous.

We did not just have food, of course.

We ended up with many skewers and loads of drinks.

Happy & satisfied customers.

Outside the restaurant.

This is the last night for us while our friends stayed on for a few days more. Although the holiday was short and wet, we had fun visiting Tama at Wakayama. That has to be the highlight of our trip. We enjoyed tonight's dinner as we craved for yakiniku always, especially the grilled onigiri. It tasted just great plain on its own, or dip with teriyaki sauce. Hmmm...now I cannot wait for my next trip.

And another travel trip awaiting....

  

O s a k a 1

We returned to Osaka to meet up with our friends the same day after our visit to Wakayama. We were in Osaka in 2009 and had enjoyed our stay. This time, with different company, we would spend a couple of days here. I always find Osaka a vibrant and attractive city, and the food is truly excellent. With like-minded travellers, we hit the food stalls without restraint. 

The first place to hit has to be Dotonbori.

Dotonbori is the food capital of Osaka.

The restaurants has neon signs with interesting identity to attract customers.

Big head girl.

Bicycles are the easiest transport mode to get around.

Green dragon above a Ramen stall.

Ramen is simple food but the broth needs a long time to prepare.

Toy characters to be 'clawed' up from a game machine.

These are the only claws I like best.

Going home? The night is still young!

For the outrageous rocker?

Japan's famed manhole cover.

We were attracted by the buttery smell...

...and we have to have one.

Slow hand.

A dachshund waiting patiently while its owner was on an errand.

Staring into space, literally.

We only have a couple of days in Osaka so we did not plan to do a lot. Beside the usual food hunting and shopping, we intend to visit a Korean town that is within Osaka. The wife is into Korean drama, and we hope to find something interesting there.

And another travel trip awaiting....