Osaka Sights, Events and Activities

Puble bath

2012-01-17T20:14:00.004+09:00

If you want try something Japanese, I strongly recommend going to public bathes.
Public baths are very popular in Japan.
No need to be hesitate to be naked, ha ha!

A public bath is close to J-hoppers Osaka. The name is" Shoten-yu".
This is the typical Japanese public bath.
Men and women get in there separately and soap bathes with others.
You might feel weird in the begging, but feel comfortable more and more.

"Shoten-Yu" is very friendly for us, because it is clean and reasonable.
Facilities are also okay.

This public bath is a bit old. This make us feel better sometimes.
Fee is 410yen for adult including towel's fee.

Please visit there to know our culture, ha ha :)

bar where you can play beer pong

2012-01-08T18:17:00.003+09:00

Access
3 min from Subway Shinsaibashi Stn. #7 exit.
Go West at the corner of Apple Store from the Mido-suji. Turn left (south) at the first block and go straight. The bldg is on the right side on the 2nd block. It's on the 4th floor.
(You will see the big yellow sign says "サンフラワービル" Balabushka is next building on 4th floor.)

Mon-Thu 6pm-3am
Fri, Sat & Before Holiday 6pm-5am

This is one of my favorite bars in osaka that you can play beer pong and pool for free. There are so many cool foreigners to hang out with too.

Hope you can enjoy there! practice beer pong for our christmas party in 2012.

Osaka illumination events

2011-12-30T22:43:00.003+09:00

Illumination events are very popular in winter season :)
Osaka has some events so please check them!

① Hikari-Renaissance
Actually this event finished on Dec 25/2011..
But it was very great! Osaka city hall was illuminated with 3D movement.
You can see from this web site.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdZONKvH10s

This building is very old, but very nice architecture.
This is the symbol of Nakanoshima area.

Not only this, you can enjoy musical concerts, food, and cruise in this event.

②Midohsuji illumination

This illumination has hold by the 22nd of January ( Sunday).
Midohsuji, the main road of Osaka is light-upped like this about 2 kilometers from Yodoyabashi to Nagahori.

We hope you have a romantic night in Osaka （＾ｖ＾）/★ A happy new year~~!

Event information @J-Hoppers Osaka

2011-12-05T09:55:00.007+09:00

It has been a bit weird weather since last month, sometimes super cold, sometimes very warm.. but anyway, it's December, the busiest time to end/welcome New Year.

We are also busy for parties.. please check out our regular events;

Wednesday morning: Local walking tour
Try a 'cos-play' or maid cafe (costume fancy dress cafe) ?
Wanna try Pachinko? One of our staff will plan a tour course so that guests can enjoy it!

Wednesday evening : Izakaya(Japanese style bar) party
Osakan Occhan(old guy)Mr.Yano takes you to Izakaya.. who can beat him?!!

Thursday early evening : Kimono Experience
The Japanese instructor will dress you up in Kimono, and take a walk for photos.

Friday evening : International Exchange Party
J-Hoppers Osaka will become the bar every Friday.

Sunday evening : Izakaya(Japanese style bar) party
Again, Mr.Yano takes you to Izakaya.. how much can he drink?? Ask him in person!

Also, we will do special events with Friday party this month:
9th : Korean food party
We invite a Korean friend and she will cook real Korean food !
16th:Takoyaki party
Takoyaki is a famous food in Osaka- it's fun to make by yourself!
23rd: Christmas party
We had so much fun last year - it was Beer pong! Kohei will organize it this year again, join "Beer pong World cup"!!

That's all.. please see the event schedule for more details.
http://j-hoppers.com/e_eventcalendar.html

We can't wait having fun with you !!

Arima hot spring!

2011-11-26T23:21:00.003+09:00

Arima Onsen is one of great Onsen in kinki area.
Access is very easy from Osaka!
It is worth to visit!

Arima has 2 kinds of Onsen, one is called " gold Onsen " another one is called " Silver Onsen".
Gold onsen's color is red and yellow. This is a picture of old onsen!

Silver onset looks like normal, but it makes you very warm and comfortable.
Both Onsens are very good for your health.

I visited " Taiko no yu" which is a amusement park of Onsen in Arima.
You can enjoy spa, massage,bedrock bath , food and so on.

This amusement park is amazing!
You can enjoy both onsen at the same time!
And you can enjoy 24 kinds of both style.

I relaxed so much! I am sure you have a great time here.
http://www.taikounoyu.com/

I wanna visit Arima Onsen again♪（＾＾） Miss it!

Christmas market at Sky building

2011-11-22T17:10:00.004+09:00

[German Christmas Market at Sky building]

Nov 18th ～　Dec 25th.

Mon-Thurs: １２：００～２１：００
Fri: １２：００～２２：００
Sat and Sun: １１：００～２２：００

Entrance fee: free

Great chance to drink German Glühwein which is pretty good!
You can buy Gluewein at IKEA but this is more authentic one. I'm sure you will like it.

It's closed at 21:00/22:00, so whenever you feel like drinking gluewein!
Also, if you have a few bills to spend, you can go up to the top of the building and see the beautiful night view. it's 700 yen to go up.

http://www.skybldg.co.jp/event/xmarkt/2011/images/S-4.jpg

Candle night 2011★Winter

2011-11-19T11:17:00.004+09:00

The event of "Candle night" is coming soon this year again.

Turn off the light, and light a candle.

then,

Write a letter to your familiy, friends, lover..

Take a long bath ..

Read a book ..

Enjoy nice dinner with special person ..

Save energy and think about peace ..

Go slow. Enjoy this quiet peaceful time.

Very relaxed, beautiful and peaceful event is held in Osaka.
One of them, Nishiumeda night is close to J-Hoppers Osaka, it's only 10 minutes walk.

Candle Night in Osaka

*Nishiumeda night : 7th of December (Wednesday) 18:00 - 22:00
*Chayamachi night : 14th of December (Wednesday) 18:00 - 22:00

The best international hostel !

2011-10-29T17:41:00.003+09:00

Our international events are very popular nowadays!
I guess it is a bit difficult to guess what kind of party we are having on every Wednesday,
so I introduce you! :)

One of our staff ( the middle of the picture with white apron) takes you to Izakaya, or Japanese
style pub.
We have started this because we wanted to provide a chance for the guest to know each other!

Do not worry about anything, just join us!
Regardless of nationality, religion or culture, anyone who stay @ J-hoppers can join!

You worry about money? No need it !
Please pay for food and drink which you order.
If you do not order so much, you can save it!

After eating and talking, we usually go to Karaoke!!
It makes more special night!

karaoke is amazing ! No border in songs!
Dance, sing, laugh!
You can color your life!

Not only Wednesdays, we have this event on Sundays as well now.

Starting time is 19:00 but please join anytime!

J-hoppers Osaka is the best international hostel in Osaka! We are sure!

Halloween Party @J-Hoppers Osaka

2011-10-26T17:48:00.004+09:00

Mr.Halloween, Kyohei organizes Halloween Party at J-Hoppers Osaka on this Friday, 28th!
If you dress up and come to the party, you will get 1 FREE drink !!

Mr.Kyohei became "Mr. Italy" last night... how about this year, someone said, Mr. Mexico?!!

Date : the 28th of October, Friday
7 pm-22:00
Fee : Guest - Free
Non guest - 1000 yen or bring food

Halloween Party at Giraffe

2011-10-24T19:23:00.001+09:00

There is a costume contest at Giraffe in Shinsaibashi.
Basically, you have to dress up whatever you want to be.

There are some judges and if you got the first prize, you can get A pair of air ticket overseas!
2nd prize is you can go snowboarding!

Halloween is said that it's a big excuse to be slutty as much as you want!
If you go downtown, there are so many slutty girls. Also, so many people dress up like so intense. you might be impressed.
p.s. I'm gonna be un mexicano! barba, sombrero y pancho!

Date and Time
Oct. 29th (sat) 6:30~9:30pm (Door Open: 6pm)

Osaka Minami 2011 International Beer Festival

2011-10-13T19:48:00.004+09:00

The Osaka Minami 2011 International Beer Festa will be held over three days from tomorrow
at Minato River Place.
It's so much fun to drink beer in hot and humid summer time, but actually it's a bit cold to drink these days in the evening..
but anyway, if you LOVE drinking beer, I don' t see why not??!
They have about 100 kinds of beer from over 30 countries!!

If you are not a big fun of beer, they also have many world-wide cuisines and dance/music show, so you would enjoy it.

Date
10/14 (Fri) 15:00-20:00
10/15 (Sat) 12:00-20:00
10/16 (Sun) 12:00-20:00

Admission : FREE
Place : Minatomachi river place ( it's connected with JR Namba station)

http://www.minami-net.jp/?p=1500
*Japanese page

Let's see a ｍｕｓｉｃａｌ★ in Osaka

2011-09-25T17:17:00.004+09:00

I saw the musical play in Gekidan-Shiki's theather in Osaka.
Gekidan-Shiki is a famous drama company which play to aim at a mass audience.

It was the first time to see this kind of musical play for me.
I was touched and wanted to see again!

Gekidan-Shiki have many dramas, one of them which I saw was 「The Sound of Music」.
It was very lovely!:)
Story was nice, songs were great, their act was amazing.
This show close by the end of February 2012.
( You still have a chance♪）

Another drama is going to be put on the stage since Oct 23 in Kyoto.
The tile is 「Mamma Mia!」
This has been played in Osaka last year, but I missed to see...
If you have a chance, you would be better to go! :)

http://www.shiki.jp/

Spanish Omelett VS Japanese Sushi - World contest!!

2011-09-11T20:00:00.002+09:00

We will have a new event on the 17th of September, it is -

"Spanish Omelett VS Japanese Sushi "!!

Can you bet which one will win?!
You can cook Spanish Omelett with our Spanish staff Jose,
or Japanese Sushi with our Japanese staff Fumi,
then you can learn how to cook them also.
After cooking, you can eat them and enjoy your dinner !

We can have only 4 people on each team, so please sign up at the reception if you want to join!!

Date : Sep 17th (Saturday)
Time : 6:30pm -
Place : in the kitchen
Fee: 500 yen

Machu Picchu

2011-09-05T18:04:00.002+09:00

It's been 100 years since an Archaeologist,Hiram Bingham, found this place.
so, it's 100 years anniversary for this.
don't know why we Japanese celebrate this though. Weird.
( because Hiram Bingham must be an American I think . )

Time: 9/17～10/2

Fee: Free

Place: 大阪府咲洲庁舎 near trade center maestation

The Incas, we might have studied when we were high school, started building the "estate" around AD 1400, but abandoned it as an official site for the Inca rulers a century later at the time of the Spanish Conquest.
Well, I really wanna go visit Machu Picchu in the near future.

If you want to see it but don't have time, you have to go to this exhibition.

Haunted house in Umeda

2011-08-28T18:20:00.005+09:00

there is a haunted house in Umeda.
The website saying, there was a secret road which is called route 0.
it exists in between some dodge buildings around the end of route 1 and route 2.

Well, this might be fun, but it says if you go inside, you can not get out of there forever....so I don't recommend you should go there unless you don't care about it.

place: in frot of Hanshin department
fee: 800yen

http://www.ktv.jp/0/map.html

Very nice Sri Lankan restaurant

2011-08-19T19:51:00.003+09:00

We found a very nice Sri Lankan restaurant :)

You might think you wanna eat Japanese food in Japan.
It is a great idea!
Real Japanese food are amazing.
Delicious, beautiful, healthy.

But, I recommend this restaurant too.
Sri LanKan food, but very nice!

It looks like a house with big garden.
Goats and sheep are there :)
All chef are Sri Lankan！

Please visit here, I m sure you have a great time！

http://www.luckygarden.jp/
Taxi　from Ikoma station
TEL　0743-77-7936

　Cafe 10:00～
　Lunch　11:00~14:00
　Dinner　17:00~22:00
　

Yodogawa Fireworks Festival 2011

2011-08-02T21:19:00.006+09:00

Yodogawa Fireworks festival is coming in 4 days!!
..However, we enjoyed from our rooftop for the last 3 years, but a new building has been under construction in the same direction of the fireworks and is getting higher and higher, so I guess it would disturb us to watch the fireworks..
We had great party on the rooftop last year, but it seems better to not do it this year..

BUT!! Mr. Yano is willing to help out. He has lived in this area and watched these fireworks for more than 20 years every year without fail, he has planned a tour this year to watch the fireworks.

*The details *
1. Please come to the J-Hoppers reception at 6:30 pm on the 6th of August(Saturday)
2.We will walk to the river side(about 20 mins)
You can buy a sushi set(500 yen) if you want, and enjoy with fantastic fireworks!!
3.After the fireworks, you can also enjoy Japanese public bath(sento) on the way back to J-Hoppers. The fee:400 yen

Kobe FireWork

2011-08-02T18:18:00.004+09:00

This coming saturday, AUg 6th, there is a Firework Festival in Kobe.
It starts from 19:30. There will be so many people there and must be super busy.

I'll tell you where you can see the firework wel;

1) Kobe Harbor land
2) Meriken park
3) Nakafutou(Port island)
4) Venus Bridge
5) Mt. Rokko

i think Venus bridge is the best place because you can see the night view as well and there might not be so busy. If you catch a cab from near Sannomiya hankyu station, it would be 1,200yen to get to there. You will have to call a cab to pick you up to go down to Sannomiya though.

Also, I guess there are not so many people around nakafutou station.

p.s. Yodogawa firework falls on the same day!

Osaka koku Passport

2011-07-17T19:47:00.007+09:00

Osaka is very hot now!

Please come to Osaka and do shopping!
Actually, a wonderful discount system has been started since this April in Osaka!

This system's name is Osaka koku Passport.
If you buy something in a member's store, earning points and using them as a discount.

You do not need a difficult procedure.
A mobile phone with IC chip or IC traffic transport card will be a point card.

Some restaurants close to J-hoppers are also available.

This is a very good idea★
You try to do shopping in Osaka area, earing and using points.

Effective term is 1 year.
Everyone can join it!
Please come to Osaka :)

URL↓
http://www.osaka-pass.jp/index.html

International Exchange Party+Nagashi somen+α

2011-07-14T22:24:00.005+09:00

We J-hoppers Osaka have International Party on every Friday these days, and we will have "Nagashi somen" also on this Friday - mean, tomorrow, the 15th!

What is "Nagashi somen"? ... it's "flowing somen".
What is "Somen"? ... it's one of Japanese noodle, but not ramen, not udon, not soba..
How do you eat it??
... Well, just come and see what we're doing!
Actually, it's my first time to try by myself, so I can't exactly explain yet... haha.

Also, many summer festivals are starting from this week, include "Tenjin Matsuri festival"which is one of biggest festival in Japan.
In Minami area(near Namba and Shinsaibashi) has variety,too.
See this website and check their schedule!

Ittoko Minami (in English)

http://www.ittoko-minami.net/en/calendar.html

Let's try real hotsprings in Osaka:)

2011-06-30T19:59:00.006+09:00

~~~~Real hot springs in Osaka city List~~~~

①Naniwa no yu
06-6882-4126
FEE 750yen
OPEN 10:00~25:00 . 365days
ACCESS get off at Tenjinbashisuji 6cho-me station. (subway)
★Osaka unlimited pass is available.

②Kamigata Onsen Ikkyu
06-6467-1519
FEE weekdays 700yen, Holidays 800yen
OPEN 10:00~26:00. Closed on the third Tuesday.
ACCESS catch a pick-up bus at Nishikujyo station (JR Osaka roop-line)
★spring's quality is very good!

③Tennen Onsen Tanabe
06-6628-1126
Fee 410yen
OPEN 6:00~25:00 Closed on Wednesdays.
ACCESS get off at Tanabe staion. (Subway)
★reasonable price and good Onsen!

There are more hot springs in Osaka.
If you head to Kobe, "Kua-house hot spring" is recommendable.

Thank you.

Namba Yasaka shrine

2011-06-27T21:08:00.002+09:00

It's just 5 mins walk form Namba station

If you enter through the east gate, you can see this big dog-ish.

This is not a dog. it's a traditional "animal"

If you go there by train

go out side through exit 32 at Subway Yotsuyabashi.

then head to South for Motomachi 2:intersection.

after you hit the intersection, cross the street. walk until you hit Motomachi North3.
You have to make sure you are on the Midousuji street.

Then if you walk to west, you can find this weird shrine.

People go downtown for fun like eat, drink and party but this sight thing might be fun as well.

Osaka has a weird shrine, but this is really epic..no?

Tenjin Festival Funatogho observation seats on the boat

2011-06-18T23:02:00.004+09:00

Tenjin Matsuri festival is one of biggest festival in Japan, and tons of people will come from everywhere, even from overseas.
This is the great festival and our guests also went to enjoy this festival every year.
But it's so hard to get a space to see fire works, because of too many people and the fire works don't go off so high in the city center, so most of them are exhausted and come back..

So, if you are coming to Osaka because of this festival,why don't you think to buy a special seat??
You can get on the boat to avoid those people, and enjoy fireworks with nice Bento(lunch box) and funny commentary by Osakan comedian. You would be a part of someone's picture for sure.

Date: 25th of July (Monday)
6 pm -
The fare : 17,000 yen
http://www.osaka-info.jp/jp/tenjin/

天神祭（English, Chinese, Korean)

The special seat on the land is also recommendable.
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_8422.html

Enjoy Osaka Sightseeing to the full!

2011-05-31T22:00:00.000+09:00

Osaka is one of the famouse sightsiing spots in Japan!
But if you read this, your trip would be more interesting!

I introduce Osaka people's habits and Osaka own culture!

◎Most of the Osaka people talk to interactive voice machines.
Japan has many talking machines such as vending machines, parking gates, and tickes machines.
Osaka people response them.

◎Mixed juice is famouse only in Osaka (Kansai area).
It is a popular juice, but Kanto people are not familiar with it.
Banana, peach, pineapple and vanilla are mixed together.

◎Usually Japan has 3 types of souce; thick, semi-thick and thin.
But Semi-thick souce is not exist in Osaka.
We have Okonomiyaki souce though.. ha ha.

◎People are frendly.
Yes, Osaka people are very optimistic and approachable! ( I believe so)

◎Shoot Osaka people as joke, then they pretend to die..!
80% it is true!
Please try to do this with our staff, Mr Yano!

He is a typical Osaka people! ha ha :)

Candle night in Osaka ★Summer 2011

2011-05-29T09:34:00.003+09:00

Turn off the light, and light a candle.

then,

Write a letter to your familiy, friends, lover..

Take a long bath ..

Read a book ..

Enjoy nice dinner with special person ..

Save energy and think about peace ..

Go slow. Enjoy this quiet peaceful time.

Candle Night in Osaka

*Chayamachi night : 1st of June (Wednesday) 18:00 - 22:00
*Nishiumeda night : 8h of June (Wednesday) 18:00 - 22:00
**The eve of Nishiumeda event: 7th of June (Tuesday) 19:00- 21:00

Event schedule

*Twinkle love-live(live music) 19:00-22:00
*Light off 2 hours 20:00-22:00

http://www.candle-night-osaka.jp/about/

weird statues

2011-05-11T16:41:00.003+09:00

look at these good looking statues!!

they don't have the most part of bodies....

they are waiting for you near here. it's close to Doutonbori.
it's just right infront of Namba doutonbori Hotel

I'm pretty sure it's going to be an awesome facebook profile picture!!!!!

There are so many clubs around there like, Pure, Life, Triangle, Giraffe and..more clubs.

If you go downtown to hang out, I recommend you go visit this hotel to take pictures.

Corrected "We gonna have a drinking party on MAY 14! "

2011-05-10T10:04:00.002+09:00

Sorry, there was the mistake in last blog "We gonna have a drinking party on MAY 14! ".

Start @ 18:00
　↓
Start @ 19:00

We're looking forward to drinking with you!!

We gonna have a drinking party on MAY 14!

2011-05-08T20:55:00.002+09:00

We gonna have a drinking party in Izakaya on MAY 14 ( Sat)!

Izakaya is a Japanese style pub. They have Japanese food , Sake and beer!

You would enjoy Japanese food such as Sushi!

It is a good chance to learn Japanese culture as well.

Please join us and let's have a good time!

Details are as below,

2000yen per 1 person.
Start @ 18:00

MAY 14 ( Sat) Don't miss it!! :)

If you would like to book beds or rooms, please call us. 06-6453-6669 (8:00~22:00)
We wait for your visit! Thank you in advance.

Osaka Midousuji Open Festival

2011-04-18T16:15:00.003+09:00

There is a big event around Minami(Osaka) area on the May 8th(Sun).

Some jazz, sports, dance, art and fashion groups are coming to perform for this event.

Last year, 370,000 people came there to see them. It's all packed on the Midousuji, sennichimae street and nagahori street by people.

This year as well, so many people might go visit there!

There is no fee and it's on Sunday, so if you have time or don't have any plans, you definitely have to go!

Date: May 8th 13:00～17:00

Place: Midousuji steet, sennichimae street, nagahori street and around the Namba Intersection.

Tulip Island Party in Awaji Island!

2011-04-16T16:53:00.006+09:00

Thank you very much for coming to Kansai area★
But, why not go to the Awaji Island?!

It's located between Hyogo and Tokushima prefecture.
Small island, but worth to visit, especially in spring!

My favorite place is "Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park"★☆★
It's not just a park, it's a paradise of flowers!
About 600 thousand pieces and 300kinds of flowers bloom by May 29.
Tulips are wonderful, livingstonedaisies are amazing..! ( Picture is above)
Fee : 400yen

Next to this park, there is "The Miracle Planet Museum of plants".
It's also interesting, you can see the art of plants!
Rose festival is held from Apr 23 ( Sat) to May 31 (Tue) there.
Fee: 600yen (Combined ticket for the park is available)

If you have time, I recommend going to Sumoto Spa and see the Naruto straits.

Easy access from Osaka! Please take a high-way bus at Osaka station.
One way is 1200yen ~

I LOVE this island!!!!
Now you wanna go, right? :)

リビングストンデージー

KIMONO LESSON 2

2011-04-15T16:07:00.007+09:00

We organize "Kimono lesson" on every Thursday for our guests.

Kimono instructor comes and dresses you up.. we have 2 kimonos, but sorry, not for men at the moment..

anyway, she dresses you up in Kimono in the TV lounge, and you can take photos there of course,

but if the weather is fine and you have a time, why don't you take a walk to the small shrine?

It's about 5 minutes walk to get there, and we are located on the local shopping street, so you may go to a cafe or shopping little bit.. you can enjoy as you like.

*Every Thursday afternoon, 15:00-17:00
*Reservation required / Maximum 2 females (Sorry, men!)
*Fee : FREE

Please feel free to ask the schedule, it's sometimes possible to arrange except Thursday.

Osaka is SAFE!!

2011-03-26T19:52:00.007+09:00

Hey! Are you afraid of traveling Japan?! No, No way!
WE ARE ABSOLUTELY SAFE.

J-hoppers and Hana hostels are located in the safe area.
YOU CAN DO SIGHTSEEING.

Honestly, we are shocked at the damage due to the earthquake and tsunami.
A lot of people lose their houses, friends, families. Unfortunately Nuclear power plants have problems.
However, it is WRONG that radiation expose to us and the whole area is dangerous.
The level of radiation is really low.

ONCE AGAIN, WE ARE SAFE!

Spring season coming soon....
Sakura, or cherry blossom is very beautiful in Spring!

You can watch fireworks at our roof-top in Summer.
Universal Studio Japan is 10th anniversary this year.
Shinkansen, or bullet train is running through Kyushu area now.

Autumn leaves viewing is also recommendable. We have a Christmas and New year party in Winter! Kimono lesson is free here. It starts 15:00~ on every Thursday.

One of our staff, Kyohei speaks Italian and Spanish. Our manager knows pilgrimage very well.
You might run into people who change your life here.
They might be your best friends.

Once again, J-HOPPERS AND HANA HOSTEL ARE SAFE.
YOU CAN DO SIGHTSEEING.
Many non-Japanese stay in Japan.

If you hesitate to visit Japan, please NOT do that!
We help your travel!

St. Patricks Day

2011-03-10T17:28:00.003+09:00

This coming Saturday, there is a St. Patricks Party at Pure in Osaka.

St. Patricks Day is on the Mar 17th though.

Time:19:00 to 22:00

Price; 3000yen All you can drink

St. Patricks Day is when you can pinch lots of people(only not wearing green shirt) and can get stressed out.

It's quite fun! pinch your friends and say it's St. Patricks Day!!

There might be more than 200 people at Pure in Shinsaibashi.

go chill out there after a hard week's work!

remember you have to wear green shirt!

Nipponbashi Street Festa 2011

2011-03-08T23:06:00.002+09:00

Akihabara... in Tokyo, then, in Osaka.. Nipponbashi ?!

A shopping district known for its electronics stores, Nipponbashi, colloquially named Den-Den town, will hold a large-scale gala day again this year.

The main street will be vehicle-free, and the festival program features a wide range of events all specially created for this event on the theme of ‘Made in Nipponbashi’. The town is also known for its many shops that specialise in Japanese otaku subculture: animation, comic books, maid cafes and collectable computer items. You will see performances by robots, live music, demonstrations of computer graphic-art and all the fun of modern Japan.

They made their English website this year!

http://nippombashi.jp/festa/2011/index_en.html

There is also on the same day in the same location, a fun otaku-style ‘cosplay’ parade (people in cartoon-character costumes), and a brass band from the Osaka Prefectural Police.

The crowds and the atmosphere will make Den Den Town.

MUST VISIT !!!

P.S. Here is the report by one of our staff in last year.

http://j-hoppers.japanhostel.net/2010_03_01_archive.html

KIMONO LESSON

2011-03-08T17:19:00.005+09:00

!!!!!!!! NEW INFORMATION !!!!!!!!

We've started “FREE KIMONO LESSONS” !!

*Every Thursday afternoon, 15:00-17:00
*Reservation required / Maximum 2 females (Sorry, men!)

If you're curious, please feel free to ask more information.
Especially schedule.. it's sometimes possible except Thursday afternoon.

Please book by email or call, or at the reception :)

NARARAN-KAI

2011-02-24T10:07:00.000+09:00

Nararan-kai is the event which is held from the 12th of February to the 26th of February in Nara.
They will show Japanese traditional RAKUGO×SAKE×NARA DISHS in NARA, and furthermore, they will do RAKUGO in English on the last day, the 26th of February (Saturday)!

It would be a wonderful opportunity for foreigners to try Japanese traditional in a old pretty shrine..

*Admission free, but need to book in advance:
CAll:06-6345-0448 or EMAIL : narayoyaku@prdx.co.jp

http://nararankai.exblog.jp/11945526/

Mr. Yano's favorite spot in Osaka

2011-02-18T17:01:00.002+09:00

This is an incredible building. look at these pictures.
There is a highway inside the building. As it sounds, so many cars pass through this building!!

It was made just for SF movies.....maybe no. I'm sure this building is reall awesome if u make a racing movie or something.
Well, I guess there were not so many spaces to build since Osaka has had loads of buildings or the architecture were creative. Also, there is a heliport at roof top. damn!!!

I might have to ask Mr. Yano why it was build.

It's located here. I have not checked it yet but I'll definitely go take a look soon.

http://maps.google.co.jp/maps?q=%E3%82%B2%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%82%BF%E3%83%AF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%93%E3%83%AB%20%E5%A4%A7%E9%98%AA%E3%80%80&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:ja:official&hl=ja&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl

Takoyaki Party in J-hoppers Osaka!

2011-02-13T20:18:00.004+09:00

We gonna have a Takoyaki Party on the 16th of February!
University students host the party this time!

They look forward to deepen exchanges with you!
They want to know about your country. Your culture, food, life style,,, ANYTHING!
Please join the party and make friends here!

Although they do not speak English fluently, they try to help that you have a great memory in Osaka.

Not only Takoyaki, we gonna try to Yakisoba as well! ★★
We would like to try to make Takoyaki by yourself. That's would be a good experience!

Place: the 1st floor in J-hoppers Osaka
Time: About 17:00
Fee: Free but would you bring your own drinks?
object person: The guest who stay here

There may be a fight to get some Takoyaki, be careful~~!

Chinese New Years Festival 2011 春節祭

2011-01-26T22:37:00.009+09:00

The China town in Kobe is going to have Chinese New Years Festival for 4 days, from the 3rd of to the 6th of February. It will be the 25th this year, and it was designated as an intangible cultural heritage by Kobe city.

They will have a lot of events for these days, dragons and lion dance.. the parades of people in Chinese costumes and marching bands are worth seeing, though I'm especially curious about 中国雑技団(Chinese acrobatics) personally.

It takes about only 40 minutes to get there from Osaka, why don't you check it out and cerebrate 2011 again with Chinese way???

HP:
http://www.nankinmachi.or.jp/shunsetsu/spring2011/index.html

2011-01-24T19:20:00.002+09:00

Hi, how's it going?

As I have good reputation for burritos, I want to introduce a real Mexican restaurant in Osaka.

I've eaten so many burritos in the states in my life. of course, more than 100 burritos. I even ate 15 burritos for 7 days when I visited California last year. I pretty much know a lot of great Mexican restaurants in San Diego.

However, I have never eaten a real burrito in Japan. I don't know where I can have it.
I have been missing it!! I have desperately wanted to eat it.

I have been looking for good one in Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto and even in Tokyo, but I could not find one.

Burrito has to be huge but it's all small in Japan. I wish we could have at least Chipotle in Japan though.

However, I could finally find one. Well, let's say it's pretty much close to "Real California Burrito" really close. Sorry I'm really snob about Burrito.

It's called "El Zocalo"

place: Osaka kita horie 1-9-6 1FB
day off: Monday
Menu:
chicken burrito 580 yen
beef burrito 630 yen
shrimp burrito 630 yen
basic burrito 480 yen

this is the website.
http://xn--9jsy78b.nokotonara.com/01/2010/09/el-zocaloburrito.html

it's open at 11:30 until 22:00, so you can have a burrito for brunch, lunch and dinner.
maybe chicken burrito for brunch, beef burrito for lunch and shrimp burrito for dinner.
How does it sound??

Enjoy your meal.

Let's go to E-cube in KIKI University!

2011-01-22T19:37:00.004+09:00

E-cube opens to the public from FEB 15 to MAR 31 in this winter!

E-cube is a kind of English-speaking cafe in KINKI university.
Usually only the students participate in it, however it opens to the public during the summer and spring vacations.
(10:00~16:00 Only weekdays, FREE)

5 to 8 people sit around each tables and talk in English.

The staff working there do some activities at 13:00 everyday.
They do cook, make a presentation related to Japan, play a music and so on..

People who join in a chat are so approachable, interested in English and overseas.
I recommend this facility even for non-Japanese because language they speak is English.
You would hear what Japanese people think nowadays.

When I talked with some ladies, they were anxious about their old age..
I noticed the reality of an increasing number of senior citizens.

Commons in the university help you to do rest.
Otherwise many restaurants are close to the University.
Not only English, you can enjoy having lunch or dinner there.

If you wanna talk in a small group, please visit e-cube in rainy days.
Access is getting off at Kintetsu Nagase station and walk for 10mins.

Don't miss this chance!

Osaka basic tourist route in winter!

2010-12-19T17:06:00.007+09:00

I recommend making a bicycle trip in Osaka, showing you a tourist route in winter.
Please rent a bicycle at J-hoppers Osaka in the morning. (500yen per one day)

Please cycle to the East starting from J-hoppers, then arrive at "Tenjinbashisuji food street"soon.
Here is the longest shopping street in Japan. Please try Japanese food, especially
trying Osaka food will be a good experience!

Go to the South, then you can see the river!Actually this river is running along the Osaka
castle park! The castle is stunning. It looks strong and grace.
You can cycle in the park. If you are interested in history of Osaka, please visit
" Osaka history museum". It is close to the Osaka castle park.

Go back to the West, you arrive at " Maccyamachisuji shopping street".
This street is known as poppets, toys, stationery, snacks and so on..
Japanese traditional snacks will be a good presents!

Head to South-West, "Namba"comes up! Namba is a downtown in Osaka!
MANY people, MANY stores, MANY restraints!
You can find whatever you want!
"Hozenji-Yokocho alley" , "Kamigata Ukiyoe museum"
and " America mura" are also worth to visit!
Please try Takoyaki, or octopus dumplings. You can make them by yourself in some restaurants.

There is a big street , names Midohsuji between "Namba" to "Umeda" .
It is a symbolize in Osaka, then ginkgo trees are along the street.
Actually these trees are illuminated until JAN 16.

Please go to north through this street in the evening!
You can be happy even you are down as you see them!
Look at traffic lights as well or you got crashed by car,, ha ha.

End of this street, it is a place of Hikari-Renaissance!
It is an annual festival at Nakanoshima area that symbolizes Osaka Aqua Metropolis.
Old buildings are illuminated until DEC25, especially the central public hall is illuminated amazing. This area becomes different! Although you are familiar with this area, I recommend going there during this festival!

Go to the North again, you come back to J-hoppers Osaka.
However if you have time, please visit "The sky building".
Christmas market is held there until DEC 26th.

I hope you do a great trip in Osaka.
Having a beer after this travel must be tasty!
Almost all bars or pubs around J-hoppers Osaka are open until over-midnight.
I hope you have a good time here in Japan!!

*The picture is related to Hikari-Renaissance.

Candle night 2010★Winter

2010-12-02T19:01:00.004+09:00

Turn off the light, and light a candle.

then,

Write a letter to your familiy, friends, lover..

Take a long bath ..

Read a book ..

Enjoy nice dinner with special person ..

Save energy and think about peace ..

Go slow. Enjoy this quiet peaceful time.

Very relaxed, beautiful and peaceful event is held in Osaka.
One of them, Nishiumeda night is close to J-Hoppers Osaka, it's only 10 minutes walk.

Candle Night in Osaka

*Chayamachi night : 2nd of December (Thursday) 18:00 - 22:00
*Nishiumeda night : 9th of December (Thursday) 18:00 - 22:00

http://www.candle-night-osaka.jp/about/

kobe luminarie 12/2(THU)～12/13(MON)

2010-11-27T19:29:00.007+09:00

I introduce Kobe luminarie which is a beautiful illuminations although this is a autumn leaves season.

Kobe luminarie - stands for the requiem for the victims at the Great Earthquake in Kobe - January 17, 1995.
This a great illumination event in short!

This scale is amazing and known as sculpture art of lights.

They call the street with illuminations toward the main event frontone, or front door adornments made by lights.
As you pass the street, you might feel to reach the Haven.

I recommend visiting there anyway!

This event is held in Kobe, Hyogo prefecture.
Please get off at JR Motomachi station (East exit).

Sannomiya station is also close to it, however
you need to head to Motomachi station on food because frontone is one-way street.

From Motomachi station, please go to the south and turn left at the corner of Mitsubishi
UFJ trust bank.
Frontone appears soon!

Heading there on weekdays is recommendable.
Admission fee is free!

However they are in the red... so please donate to them if you like.

Held on DEC 2(THU)~13(MON) in 2010 from evening to night.

Many stands are placed around the main park.
I bought luminarie's stamps last year.

I m sure you have a good time there!

Christmas Party at J-Hoppers Osaka 2010

2010-11-27T09:51:00.005+09:00

It's getting cold here and the town started to be illuminated with Christmas decorations.. they're romantic and beautiful, and makes us excited.

There will be a lot of Christmas events in Osaka, so we also decided the date of our Christmas party.

Date : the 22nd of December ( Wednesday)
in the evening, around 7 pm.
Place : our Kitchen on the 1st floor
Fee: Free
but please bring your own drink, and your motivation to have fun with us!

Evenings of Traditional Osaka Performing Arts

2010-10-28T16:56:00.004+09:00

Every 1st and 3rd Saturday evening, there is the show which you can enjoy 4 kinds of traditional arts in Osaka, for example, Noh, Bunraku, kyogen, Rakugo, Geisya dance etc. ..
They are difficult to understand for even our Japanese people, but in this show, an comedian(Rakugo-ka) translates each show, so you can understand easily with laughing!
Also, they give you a reference materials in English,Chinese and Korean, and free right food(steamed rice and green tea).

Why don't you try to learn them, instead of night clubbing??

Place: Yamamoto Noh gakudo
Access: Walk from Subway Tanimachi 4 chome station
Admission fee: from 3500 yen

http://kamigata-night.com/

Hiraoka Festival Oct.14th&15th

2010-10-14T10:35:00.005+09:00

Largest class autumn festival with 20 taiko drum stands entering the shrine and 3 floats parading.

Every year approx. 150,000 worshippers and numerous stalls fill the shrine premises during the two-day festival.

This is a MUST!!

Date : October 14th and 15th
Time : 15:30 - 23:00
Admission : Free
Place : Hiraoka Shrine (072-981-4177)
* The nearest station is Kintetsu Hiraoka station.

International Beer Summit

2010-09-28T22:54:00.004+09:00

Are you missing your country"s beer, or getting fed up to drink Japanese beer, though we have really nice beer in Japan though..

Here is the event which you shouldn't miss, the name is "International Beer Summit 2010"!
You can see/buy more than 100 kinds of beers from all over the world, and not only beer, they also do many attractions .. flamenco,Bali island dance, Japanese drum etc., and of course some cuisine from the world,too !!
So, everybody would be able to enjoy it, even you're not a big fun of beer.

Date: the 1st of October (Sat.) 12;00-22;00
the 2nd of October (Sun.) 12;00-21;00
Place : Itami city Hakkenderamae
*Walk from Hankyu railway Itami station or JR Itami station
Admission : Free

Official HP : http://www.ibws-npo.org/

Kansai Music Conference 2010

2010-09-19T18:10:00.003+09:00

Kansai Music Conference (KMC), through co-sponsorship with Osaka Museum of History, brings together musicians from all over the world to network and perform in downtown Osaka with workshops about traditional music and instruments of different cultures for the general public as well as presentations and discussions about the music industry.

KMC２０１０ is the opportunity to have an exchange of cultures, make new friends, contacts and advance musical carrers.

If you are interest in music, why don't you join them?

Date : ２０１０ September １９th and ２０th
１０：００－１６：００

Place : Osaka Museum of History
〒５４０－０００８, ４－１－３０ Otemae Chuo-ku Osaka city
TEL　０６－６９４６－５７２８

Admission Free

Inquiry : KMC　（０６－６８２９－７９７６）
http://www.kansaimusicconference.com/conference.html

Gangara Fire Festival

2010-08-21T23:31:00.003+09:00

Gangara Fire Festival is the Ikeda city's most traditional annual event, to wish for safety in the house and fire prevention.　Every year on August 24th, the 4-meter-long and 100-kilogram of torches are carried by young men. The torchlight procession marches around the city and goes up to Atago Shrine (on the Mt. Satsuki).

On the same night, the Daimonji and the Dai-ichimonji Fires are to be lit on the slopes of Mt. Satsuki. This fires are the simbols of the prayer for the inner satisfaction and the world peace.

Date : August 24th 19:00 - 22:00
Place : Walk north from Hankyu Ikeda station.

Osaka Castle Takigi Noh(Performance by firelight)

2010-08-20T21:02:00.002+09:00

From tomorrow, the 21st, some attractive night events will be held in Osaka castle, and I'll pick up one of them today, "Osaka Castle Takigi Noh　大阪城薪能" on the 25th.

Osaka Castle Takigi Noh attracts more than 3,000 visitors every year. “Takigi Noh” is a type of noh performed outdoors with light supplied by bonfires. It is performed at night, usually in summer, at a noh theater or on an outdoor temporary stage. For Osaka Castle Takigi Noh, a temporary stage will be installed in front of Osaka Castle.

Enjoy a summer night of traditional Japanese performing art, the world of Yugen, with the illuminated Osaka Castle in the background.

Date: the 25th (Wed.)
18:00 -
*In case of rain, postponed to the follwing 26th.
Place: Nishinomaru Garden of Osaka Castle
Fee: Adult 4500 yen (advance ticket 3600 yen)

Art performance by Tabaimo

2010-08-17T09:12:00.004+09:00

Tabaimo is the nickname of a prominent young japanese artist from Hyogo prefecture. Her works are based on video and drawings, and will be in exhibition at the National Museum of Art in Osaka until the 12th of September.

Entrance fee : 420 yen
from 10am-5pm
Access to the Osaka National Art Museum.

Upgraded the backyard

2010-07-31T21:00:00.001+09:00

Midsummer greeting!

We introduced the backyard of J-Hopppers the other day, and we're telling more because it's been upgraded with beautiful lanterns!!

They ere collaboration work between sort of a construction coordinator of J-Hoppers Osaka,Mr.Yano and talented Japanese painting artist, Sawako !!

Mr.Yano suggested this idea and made flames, and Sawako draw amazing pictures..　
She draw different paintings on each side, and showing four seasons. Yes, it means that we can enjoy them all year long, not only summer.
her sense of painting is always beyond our imaginings!!

"Is there any place to drink beer ?"

Yes, now we have.. it's too hot to be on the rooftop in daytime, and we can open the backyard from 7:30 am to the midnight until the end of August, as the elementary school is closed for summer holiday.

USJ Summer Twilight Pass

2010-07-20T01:36:00.004+09:00

As the rainy season ended, why don't you go to Universal Studios Japan?

Universal Studios Japan is now offering a special ticket called "Summer Twilight Pass". This ticket is for anyone entering the park after 15:00 and valid until the closing time.

The price is 4,500 yen for adults (compared to 6,100 yen for an ordinary Studio Pass), and 3,300 yen for children (compared to 4,100 yen for an ordinary Studio Pass).

This ticket is now on sale at Universal Studios Japan Ticket Booths, Official website at www.usj.co.jp, Lawson convenience stores, and JR Reservation Ticket Offices (Midori-no madoguchi). You can purchase it at JR Fukushima station, which is the nearest station from J-Hoppers Osaka Central as well. There are both advance sale and on-the-day sale.

Summer Twilight Pass will be available for a limited time until September 6th, 2010. Enjoy the Magical Starlight Parade and the limited edition Summer goods and food!

Events in Osaka in mid July

2010-07-05T20:55:00.000+09:00

If you haven't planned something for your week end of 17-18th of July, come to Osaka for an unforgettable two days !

* "Great Japan Beer Festival 2010 in Osaka" held in Kyosera Dome Sky Hall, Osaka
4,500 beer lovers was attended last year.
advance ticket 4,100 Yen & at door 4,500 Yen
Door open & close:
17th Jul 14:00-18:00
18th Jul. 13:00-17:00
19th Jul. 11:30-15:30

* The "Suma Beach Party 2010" held on the Suma Beach west of Kobe.
4,000 music lovers are expected.
On 17th and 18th Jul. from 15:00 to late.
You can also participate thanks to the open mic.

Tanabata Party

2010-06-30T18:33:00.005+09:00

Have you heard about "Tanabata 七夕"?
Tanabata is Japanese star festival,derived from Chinese one.

There is the legend of Orihime(Vega) and Hikoboshi(Altair).
They are separated by the Milky way, a river made from stars that crosses the sky, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar, the 7th of July.

When you walk around in this season, you would see decorated bamboo trees often, because people write their wishes on strips of colorful paper and then hang them on bamboo branches to celebrate the festival.

Well, let's get to the point. We're going to have the first summer party on the 6th of July, though not on the 7th.. we hope you can enjoy summer evening in upgraded our backyard with our nice guests and new staffs.

Date: 6th of July (Tuesday)
Start about 19:00-19:30
Place: J-Hoppers Osaka Backyard and Kitchen

Photo Exhibition of Body Tattoos [Body inc.]

2010-06-15T19:18:00.004+09:00

An photo exhibition oｆ Body Tattoo by Rob Walbers, [Body inc.], is being held at Flanders Center in Osaka.

Rob Walbers is well known as a photographer who is dealing with famous musicians, fashion models whose names we have all heard. He is now based in Osaka where his interests were sparked in.

This exhibition is made up of 45 photographs of body tattoos, shot in Japan after his arrival from Belgium. Here you will able to see another Japan through the eyes of Rob Walbers.

2010 June 4th - 2010 June 30th
Open : 10:00-17:00 (Saturday 12:00-18:00)
Close : Sunday and Holidays
Admission Free

Place : Flanders Center (International House Osaka 3F)
8-2-6 Uehonmachi, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0001

Access (approx. 30 minutes from J-Hopppers Osaka)
・5 minutes walk from Kintetsu Uehonmachi Station
・10 minutes walk from Subway Tanimachi 9-chome Station.

We wish you a fresh summer !

2010-06-04T17:36:00.000+09:00

Temperature got back to 30 degrees Celsius, the japanese scary summer is back !

I can yet hear you screaming, despairing, preparing a map of the nearest fresh drink vending machines, fan and deodorant shops...

Stop, we have THE solution !

Designed in our high tech laboratories by Sir Yano (whose competences now range from magic show, story telling, googlemaping and advance building engineering), the exclusive, oblique, and necessarily somehow magic, ...

J-HOPPERS OSAKA'S ROOF-BLINDED GARDEN !!!

You are now free to enjoy our little garden at any time of the day without fearing sunburn !
We're waiting for you numerous and wish you a fresh and relaxing stay ... :-)

Candle night in Osaka

2010-05-29T19:50:00.000+09:00

Turn off the light, and light a candle.

then,

Write a letter to your familiy, friends, lover..

Take a long bath ..

Read a book ..

Enjoy nice dinner with special person ..

Save energy and think about peace ..

Go slow. Enjoy this quiet peaceful time.

Candle Night in Osaka

*Chayamachi night : 3rd of June (Thursday) 18:00 - 22:00
*Nishiumeda night : 10th of June (Thursday) 18:00 - 22:00

Event schedule

*Twinkle love-live(live music) 19:00-22:00 *Light off 2 hours 20:00-22:00 *March (fresh vegetable market) 16:00-20:30, 10th of June
(Nishiumeda night only)

http://www.candle-night-osaka.jp/about/

Renoir: Tradition and Innovation

2010-05-17T17:21:00.003+09:00

An exhibition called "Renoir: Tradition and Innovation" is being held at the National Museum of Art, Osaka, until June 27th.

The impressionist master, Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841–1919) is beloved throughout the world as "the painter of happiness."

This exhibition is made up of approximately 80 works from major collections inside and outside of Japan, including works from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the National Gallery of Art, Washington, the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute and Musée d'Orsay, Paris. Some of them are being exhibited in Japan for the first time.

Don't miss out!

Opening Hours : 10:00–17:00, Fridays until 19:00
(Admission until 30 minutes before closing)
Closed : Mondays
Admission Fee : Adults : 1500 Yen

The National Museum of Art is just a 15-minute walk from J-Hoppers Osaka!

Official Site : http://www.nmao.go.jp/english/home.html

One day trip to Koya-san

2010-05-12T18:05:00.000+09:00

Recently I went for the second time to Mounts Koya (Koya-san in japanese) as a one day trip...

The first time was 4 years ago during the Golden Week. Everything was so crowded there ... It didn't really looked like a quiet journey in a peaceful place. However I kept good memories of the hiking we made in the surrounding mountains to escape the crowd, and of the impressive graveyard.

This year we could experience a completely different Koya-san. Middle of April, middle of the week, bad weather, ... There was no-bo-dy, and the few monks and tourists walking through the fog looked more like ghosts escaped from the stones of this mystic forest.

Having avoided most of the town and seen only half of the graveyard on the first time, we decided to start with the graveyard and walk up to Oku-no-in. Here rest in peace the souls of numerous Japanese, and amongst them many very famous ones such as Takedo Shingen, Ishida Mitsunari, Oda Nobunaga ... Due to the fame of the bodies lying here, most of the gravestones are splendids and enormous. And there are so many ! It's simply the biggest graveyard in all Japan.

A paved walkway goes through this forest of stones and trees up to the Oku-no-in, the mausoleum of Kukai (also called Koubou Daishi). He was impressed by the configuration of the mountains of the Koya area : it looked like the eight petals of a lotus flower, and reminded him a sacred mountain in China where he went to study. Then he ordered to consecrate this place as the main retreat for Shingon Buddhism. Later Toyotomi Hideyoshi constructed the head quarter of this sect : the Kongoubuji temple.

Oku-no-in is surrounded by an area where pictures can't be taken. It starts from a bridge over a small river. When we walked through, there was votive plaques hammered in the stream. Some pilgrims were heading to the mausoleum to receive their 'noukyou' (calligraphy delivered in each temples of a pilgrimage). Oku-no-in is quite simple when seen from the outside, it doesn't impressed with some fancy architecture. But from the inside, the hugeness of the hall, and the wealth in furniture command respect.

Three Japanese were receiving a service from a monk singing in front of a calligraphy of 'Koubou'. Two other monks were writing the kanjis of the four seasons on small papers. We could pray after washing our hands with ashes, an alternative way to the more common water running from a fountain at the entrance of the temple. I loved the smell of my hand when I prayed and kept attention few seconds on my breath...

After passing back the small river we had a little rest in a building prepared for pilgrims and visitors. A huge cauldron keeps some hot tea, tables and benches surround an altar, a large tv screen displays a promotional video on Koya-san.

And then we came back to the entrance of the graveyard. Until we caught the bus toward the 'downtown' we could eat some delicious mochi and sweets in the cafe in front of the bus stop. The city is so small we could easily go by foot but we had a bus pass, it's always funny to take the bus when you are alone inside, and it made us save some time.

We went then to visit the Kongoubuji. It is the must-see as it is the main temple of the city. The building as some interesting architectural particularities and a wide mineral garden. You can also have tea in a large room where a monk gives a lecture. The first time we went there, it was about the meaning of the sentence we use at beginning of each meal : "itadakimasu". The second time there was no lecture.

After some shopping of souvenirs (including delicious sesame flavored tofu), we went to the Joufukuin. This one has a very special underground walkway into pitch blackness. Walk through without fear to prove your faith !

And finally it was time to come back home. During all the day we used the Nankai Koya Pass. It gives you access to Mounts Koya (train and ropeway) from Namba station in Osaka, and covers the bus lines in Koya, as well as offers many reductions in souvenir shops, temples, and museums, for 3310 yen. It takes 1h30mn to go from Namba to Koya.

A new and fun restaurant in Osaka

2010-04-22T18:39:00.000+09:00

Recently we have noticed a new restaurant in the neighborhood of J-Hoppers Osaka. It's a restaurant of Tsukemen, it means cold noodles that you pour yourself in a bowl of soup and vegetables and meat, in opposition with ramen where you receive the noodles hot and poured in the bowl of soup yet. The soup of Tsukemen can also be cold, and the noodles served with icicle in summer. This is a meal I'm always happy to rediscover each year, as it makes me feel that summer has come.
But this new restaurant has something special : you have to eat your tsukemen in a very particular way ... First you receive the noodles (hot or cold) and the hot soup with pork meat and some vegetables (and eggs in option). Then you add minced onion to the soup, mix, and eat as usual. Once you've had a third of it, you're asked to press half of a lemon on it. Then you can start enjoying a new taste ! Another third of noodles later, it's time to try with a supplement of spices ... Take care to don't use to much ! Finally when you're done with the noodles, you generally still have some soup left. At this point, if it surely got cold. You could then just leave it but it would be a waste.

Then they simply thought about warming it up once again, in a funny way ... First you can dilute a little the soup to make it easier to drink, with hot dashi (kind of clear soup), then you receive a burning stone which is to be put in the soup. The stone is *very* hot and your soup will be soon bubbling furiously. Few seconds are enough to have it properly heated. Then take out the stone (still hot, take care !) and enjoy your soup till the last drop ... :-)

The restaurant's name : Tsukemen Misawa, open from 11:30 to 14:30 and from 17:00 to 24:00, open everyday, google map, around 800 yen.

The Mint Bureau under cherry blossoms Apr.14-20

2010-04-13T19:28:00.004+09:00

There is the Mint Bureau in Osaka city, near Osaka castle and it's famous for cherry blossoms with approx. 120 species, 370 trees in bloom.
They open their garden for 1 week in only this season, so thousands of people come to enjoy the last cherry blossom - because this place is the last one where we can see them,as they are all late blossoms.
You can enjoy gorgeous cherry blossoms, and also you will a lot and a lot of food stalls beside the river.. and again, with tons of people..

But it's worth to visit for both enjoying cherry blossom and yummy foods. Don't miss it!!

Open : April 14 - 20
Weekday 10:00-21:00
Weekend 9:00-21:00
Access : Walk from JR Osaka Temmangu station or Keihan/Subway Temma station
Admission : Free

http://www.mint.go.jp/eng/topics/new/page26.html

April Bunraku Performance

2010-04-04T16:22:00.002+09:00

BUNRAKU is the modern name for the traditional puppet drama of Japan which developed in the Kansai region, particularly Osaka, in the seventeenth century.

This time they perform full Lenghth "Imose-yama Onna Teikin".

The story is set in the Taika Reform in ancient Nara in 645.
I can highly recommend it, to those who have yet to see Bunraku or who are interested in Japanese history, tradition and culture.

April 3rd - April 25th, 2010

First Part : 11:00- (till 15:20)
Second Part : 16:00- (till 21:00)

Place : National Bunraku Theatre

Price : 1st Grade : General 5800 yen / Students 4100yen
2nd Grade : 2300yen
One Day Pass (1st Grade only) : 9800yen

About National Theatre of Japan
http://www.ntj.jac.go.jp/english/index.html

About April Bunraku Performance Tickets
https://ticket1.ntj.jac.go.jp/Play

Events in Osaka in early April

2010-04-01T17:05:00.003+09:00

Waiting for the sun ... some more suggestions to get out while staying dry !

* Traditional Osaka Performing Arts

On Saturday 3rd at the Yamamoto Noh Theater, 4 kind of arts will be performed from 19:00 with subtitles in English, Chinese and Korean. Tickets from 3500. Website here.

* Cherry blossom by boat and night

Enjoy a special dinner while cruising on the Okawa river in Osaka which has many cherry on its riverbank. Until April 11th, from 18:30, 50mn, 4200 yen. Website here.

* Sakura Party at Club Pure

Wear in Pink or White and enjoy all you can drink for 3 hours at Club Pure on the 10th of April. From 19:00, 3000 yen. Website here.

Events in Osaka until end of March

2010-03-23T17:01:00.004+09:00

Well, the weather these days is quite demoralizing, then lets look for some indoor activities ...

* Concert of Galactic :

The group Galactic will be on air on the 26th at Club Quattro from 19:30. 6000Y. Tel 06-6535-5569

* Concert of Europe :

A Swedish rock group will play at Namba Hatch on the 28th from 17:00. 7500Y or 9500Y. Tel 06-7732-8888.

* Mustache party

At Club Pure, 2500Y or 3000Y, on the 27th from 19:00, all you can drink.

Nippombashi Street Festa 2010

2010-03-14T18:09:00.011+09:00

DENDENTOWN in Nippombashi.
This area is one of the most famous electronics quarters in Japan.

Nowadays it is also well-known as a town of Otaku (:nerd) culture.
Its street is lined with miscellaneous shops selling video games and
merchandise featuring cartoon characters.

"Nippombashi Street Festa 2010"
This is a big annual event which transmits attractive information of DENDENTOWN.

Various popular characters of animations and pretty maids parade in the street.
Enjoy cosplay festival, club-like event of animation songs and more!
You would watch unique robot's performance as well.

You cannot miss this event where participants and spectators lift their spirits together!

DATE : MARCH 21TH (SUN) 2010

PLACE : DENDENTOWN, NIPPOMBASHI

WEBSITE : http://nippombashi.jp/festa/2010/

Sumo Practice Tour

2010-03-07T09:42:00.010+09:00

Ｇrand Sumo Tournament will start in Osaka on the 14th of March.
It would be so exciting and good experience to watch it, but we will organize "Sumo Practice Tour"
from tomorrow, the 8th of March!
There is one of place where some sumo wrestlerｓ practice till the 14th near J-Hoppers Osaka, so you can go there and watch their training.

Here is the details;

Date : every morning 8th(Mon.) - 11th(Thu.) and the 13th(Sat.)
Departure time : 9:30 am
*Maximum 5 persons / day
*Fee : 300 yen
*Approximate time ：1.5 hours
*Photo with Sumo wrestler is available
*Tour guide : Fumi (our night worker)

Would you like to join??
Please sign up at the reception RIGHT NOW !!!

Grand Sumo Tournament information:
http://www.sumo.or.jp/eng/index.html

Backyard Open!

2010-02-26T20:50:00.004+09:00

We started to open the backyard of J-Hoppers Osaka for our guest!
It's been used by only staff,but we changed a half of the backyard to open space with some benches.
Though not many guests have used yet and no decorating because it's been still cold since we opened, but we expect that it would be a good place for our guests to relax in the sun, without climbing upstairs to the rooftop!
Also, we will have BBQ party there.. can't wait!!

*Opening hour*
(Because there is the elementary school right behind of us and we should care of them.)
Mon-Fri. 19:00-24:00
Sat.,Sun.and holiday 7:30-24:00

Open Mic Night @ Bamboo Club

2010-02-25T00:48:00.005+09:00

You can join to play any styles of music! Preferably your original music!

This is a joint event of Elixir Cafe & Bar and Kansai Music Conference. Open Mic Night is a chance for musicians to come out and play a song, jam together or just socialize.

Enjoy all kinds of music such as folk, rock, blues, jazz and Karaoke! All the singers, songwriters, solo musicians and percussionists are welcome!

Date: 2010 March 12th, Friday

Time: 19:00 - 22:00

Door: 500JPY (1 drink incl.)

Place: Bamboo Club

Address : 12-17 Kurosakicyo Kitaku Osaka

Tel: 06-6371-6403

URL: http://www.kansaimusicconference.com/

Plum blossom in Osaka

2010-02-16T17:24:00.002+09:00

The plums started to blossom in Kansai ! If you are looking for some places to enjoy their sweet fragrance, you will of course think about Osaka Castle's park. But here comes some others recommendations in Osaka area :
* The Hiraoka Plum Garden, containing 400 trees. You can go there by Kintetsu train, in around 45mn from Osaka (440 yen, from Tsuruhashi St. to Hiraoka St.)
* The Domyoji Tenmangu Shrine, containing 800 trees. You can go there by Kintetsu train, in around 20mn from Osaka (340 yen, from Osakaabenobashi St. to Domyoji St.)
* A little bit farther, the Minabe Bairin Ume Festival, the largest plum grove in Japan : 80.000 trees. You can go there by JR train, in 2 hours from Osaka (4510 yen, from Nishikujo St. to Minabe St.)

SETSUBUN in OSAKA

2010-01-31T16:19:00.005+09:00

Here I introduce an event called Setsubun, the bean-throwing holiday which comes on the 3rd of February.

On February 3rd, some costumed men, wearing oni (demon or ogre) masks, go around scaring everyone by sneaking up on them from behind and shouting “aaarrgghh” loudly into their ears.

Another amusing part of this holiday is, anime heroines, sexy nurses, Geisha, Maiko and Kabuki costumes can be seen after dark on the brightly lit streets of Kitashinchi in Umeda. This is a very special tradition which is unknown outside the Kansai area. Something like Halloween, wearing variety of costumes during this time is meant to ward off evil spirits.

DATE : February 3rd

PLACE : Around Dojima Yakushido (Dojima/Kitashinchi Area)
*20 minutes walk from J-Hoppers Osaka Central

PARADE STARTS AT 14:00

DOYADOYA festival

2010-01-07T19:55:00.005+09:00

What is "DOYADOYA" ??

"DOYADOYA" is one of the three major Japanese unusual festivals carried on in Shitennoji Temple
in Osaka. Ritual held on the wish summation (last) day of Shushoe (Buddhist ritual to pray for good luck in the year) starting from Jan 1.
A solemn ritual in the temple hall, while young men clad only in loincloth and headband bravely struggle for banknotes in front of the hall.

Here are photos which one of our guest took last year.

It's definitely rare chance to look such tons of semi-naked Japanese guys and feel their soul in so cold winter..

It's held on the 14th of January, Thursday, in Shitennoji Temple.
Start from 14:30.

http://www.shitennoji.or.jp/oshirase/koutu/koutu2.htm

Christmas days at J-Hoppers Osaka

2009-12-28T16:38:00.013+09:00

How did you spend your Christmas?
We had a big Christmas party on the 23rd in J-Hoppers Osaka.
The president of J-Hoppers and the manager of Kyoto, and another staff also could come to join us, so it become a sort of year-end dinner party at the end :)

The main menu was Tomato nabe. "Nabe" is Japanese traditional winter food, but Tomato nabe is/was not! Somehow it's become popular in this year, or I can say the meals with lots of tomato are very popular in Japan now. Actually, there is Tomato ramen(noodle) restaurant near J-Hoppers Osaka. About the first time they opened, we wondered if it's good or not, but now we like it so much and it's always crowded !

Anyway, we cooked Tomato nabe with a bit anxious.. as it's the first time for us to cook here..
But it was successful! We put many succulent pork cooked with garlic,and seafoods, sausageｓ and lots of vegetables, then all of them made delicious soup! mmm.. yum!!

Also, Sawako cooked "chili con carne（チリコンカン）" , and one of cleaner staff Sachi cooked another dish as one of appetizer. They're also so nice and we couldn't stop eating.

While we're eating, of couse, another cleaner staff Mr.Yano coudn't help showing his magic show!!

One of guest was stimulated by him and started showing her magic,too!

At the end of party, we enjoyed Pascal's handmade apple& chocolate cake with icecream!!
That taste still makes me hungry..

Well, we're a nice team, aren't we?

*******************************************************************

On the 24th, we planned to present a small gift for each guests who stayed on that day.
We bought many sweets and snacks and packed in a small cute bag.. for boys.
Because, Fumi made beautiful origami boxed for girls and we put some sweets in there.
It must be women's prerogative.. how lucky we girls are!

She did very well and worked so hard, and made 17 boxes in total!

Even when they started check-in, she was making them beside..

We're soooo glad, because we could make them smile and happy with our small gift!

Good-job, Fumi !

Thank you for everyone who shared your time with us on such a special days,
we hope you enjoyed your stay and see you next time!

New Year in Osaka (2009 update !)

2009-12-27T18:23:00.000+09:00

I'm almost late for the update of the last year article (here and there) about new year events, quick !!

* At Taiyuji Temple, you can strike the bell and receive talisman (only for the 108 first ones). On the 31st at 0:00, it's free and it's here.

* At Minamimido Temple, avoid bad luck for next year by ringing the bell of the temple from 23:30 (only for the 108 first ones, but groups can ring the bell all together at once). The first 200 persons will also receive free soba noodles. It's free and it's here.

* At Aizendo Temple, avoid bad luck for next year by ringing the bell of the temple from 23:30 (only for the 108 first ones) and receive the Ema (sacred painting on a wooden tablet) of this temple. It's free and it's here.

* At Kanshinji Temple, receive a lucky charm made of Kaya to protect you all next year (only for the 600 first ones), and a sacred rice scoop (only for the 108 first ones). On the 31st, it's free and it's here.

* At Kitamido Temple, a count down with fireworks and music will start around 23:00. It's free and it's here.

* At Sky Building, big count down with light, sound, fireworks and ... 10.000 spectators expected !! From around 23:15. The 40th floor will be open too for few happy ones. It's free (except for the 40th floor, 700Y) and it's here.

* At Shitennoji Temple, avoid bad luck for next year by ringing the bell of the temple from 23:30 (only for the 108 first ones) and drink Amazake (sweet sake, only for first 1.000 ones). It's free and it's here.

* At Dainenbutsuji Temple, avoid bad luck for next year by ringing the bell of the temple from 23:30 (only for the 108 first ones) and eat Zenzai and Mochi (sweet red beans soup and sticky ball of rice, only for the first 500 ones) . It's free and it's here.

* At Nozakikannon Temple, ring the bell from 23:00 (only for the 108 first ones) and eat orange and sweat sake, or receive charms. It's free and it's here.

* At Kongoji temple in Koyasan, receive a sacred rice scoop on the 31st and 1st.

* At Tenmangu Temple, drink the Gods' Sake from 0:00. It's free and it's here.

* On board of the Santa Maria sailboat, countdown and party. Departure at 23:45 for 45mn cruise, 2500 yen. More info here (in japanese)

* At Universal Studio Japan, enjoy a very special party from 19:00 to 2:00 with a count down of course and huge fireworks. The pass for this event cost 8.900 yen. Universal Studio official website -> here.

* At Mount Kongo, climb to the summit to see the first sunrise of the year. The ropeway will be exceptionnally open from 5:00 (1300 yen). Free Sake will be offer to the first 200 ones, and free Zenzai to the first 1.000 ones. To go there : From Abenobashi st. to Shakudo St. and then to Gose st. by Kintetsu train (around 40mn, departure from Abenobashi st. at 3:36 arrival at Gose at 4:39), then 3km to the ropeway by foot, then 6mn by Ropeway (departure at 5:40), and finally 30mn of hiking to the top. The sun rises at around 7:05. As I went there last year I recommend you to read this article.

* All the most famous clubs and bars of Osaka will hold their own Countdown party of course, refer to the Kansai Scene Website for more details about clubs and lives.

Inside Osaka, be aware that everything will be crowded. If you hope to ring the bell or receive some of the free foods, go there early and with enough patience to stay in the queue for few hours in the chilly night ! To ring the bell you usually need to get a ticket which are distributed few hours before the start of the ringing. Buy tickets to events as soon as possible !

And remember that :

* The Aquarium of Osaka stay opened.
* The Castle is closed from the 28th to the 2nd.
* Universal Studio Japan stay opened.
* Tennoji zoo is closed from the 29th to the 1st.
* The Tourist Information Centers stay opened.
* The Umeda Sky Building is exceptionnaly opened from 5:00 in the morning on the first if you want to see the first sunrise of the year.
* Namba Parks is closed on the 1st.
* National Museum of Art is closed from the 14th of December to the 15th of January
* Municipal Museum of Art is closed from the 29th to the 3th
* The Tsutenkaku Tower stays opened.
* Most of the restaurants are closed. It's better going to chains like (near J-Hoppers Osaka) Machikadouya, Yoshinoya, Cocoichiban, ... (Traditionnally Japanese eat at home a dish called Osechi, cooked or ordered in advance)
* Convenient stores stay opened.
* Department stores around Osaka Station : HEP Five is closed from the 31st to the 1st, Hankyu Dept Store is closed on the 1st, Hanshin Dept Store is closed on the 1st, Yodobashi Camera stay opened, ...
* Transportations keep running, but with lower frequency.

All the J-Hoppers Osaka staff wish the best ever New Year Day !!!

Funny event in Osaka

2009-12-21T18:32:00.002+09:00

Some japanese rituals may looks quite strange for foreigners eyes ... That's probably the best ones to look for during your trip in Japan. Then, don't miss the Shimenawa Shinji ! It takes place at Hiraoka shrine on the 25th of December. From Tsuruhashi St. (on the Osaka loop line) take the Kintetsu Nara Line anbd get off at Hiraoka St. (440 yen, 20mn). After repalcing the sacred rope that mark the border between dirty world and pure shrine, priests will laugh loudly to scare the devils ! Don't hesitate to laugh with them for your own fortune ;-)

Let's go to see Penguin Parade!

2009-12-19T18:35:00.004+09:00

Penguin Parade at Kaiyukan, The Osaka Aquarium

The King Penguins appear and march in the forecourt of the aquarium.

Date : December 18th, 2009 to January 8th, 2010 (Every Day)
January 9th, 2010 to February 7th, 2010 (Only on Saturday, Sunday and Holidays)
Time : 11:30-/13:30-/15:30- (for 20 minutes)
Venue : Event Plaza in front of the Kaiyukan Building
Admission Fee : Free

Illuminations!!!

2009-12-10T20:52:00.003+09:00

Are you ready for Christmas??
Here in Osaka,there are a lot of illuminations events in this month and we'd like to show some of them today.

*Sky building
-There is the HUGE Christmas tree just under the building!
They are also having German Christmas market.
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_6863.html

*Renaissance of Light in Osaka
-only 10 minutes walk from J-Hoppers Osaka
http://www.hikari-renaissance.com/mt/en/

*MIDWAY OSAKA
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_8728.html

*Universal Studios Japan Wonder Christmas
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_8720.html

*Illumination Cruise Service
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_8719.html

*WTC Chrismas Illumination
http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_8662.html

The last one is not in Osaka, it's in Kobe.
But it's very famous and big event in this season!
*Kobe Luminarie*
This event is requiem of Great Hanshin earthqueke.
http://www.kobe-luminarie.jp/

So, get your warm clothes and go to the town!!

Christmas Party on the 23rd !

2009-12-05T19:21:00.003+09:00

We are having Christmas Party at J-Hoppers Osaka on the 23rd of December!
It's not Christmas yet? Don't care !
We will try to cook NEW menu and it will be the first time for us ..
Keep your fingers crossed for us, though it should not be difficult !

Also, please tell us if you have any nice ideas/menu which make our party much more fun.

We see you then!

2009-12-04T17:23:00.000+09:00

We've just been ranked by Hostelworld customers as the 10th best hostel in all Asia for November 2009 !!
Shall we bless our manager Ken who looks like the famous baseball outfielder Ichiro as like as two peas in a pod ? Shall we bless our saint Noriko who brings us enlighted peace from each of her pilgrimage ? Shall we bless our cute Sawako and her gorgeous brush paintings gallery ? Shall we bless our crazy Pascal and his frightening french humour ? Or maybe that's thank to the almost world famous magical 999 show of Mister Yano ?
Anyway we'll keep on working hard to provide you the best quality of service and the most enjoyable stay in our guesthouse !

Let's go to Minoo !

2009-12-02T09:45:00.000+09:00

Minoo is a small village in the mountain north from Osaka. It's very easy access as you can get there by Hankyu train from Umeda Station in less than 30mn. Take the Takarazuka line and change at Ishibashi Station for the Minoo line, 260 yen. If you're looking for some green while you're staying at Osaka that's the perfect location ! An easy walk along the river will lead you to a big waterfall. Those who would enjoy more walking can also escape in the mountain thanks to many hiking courses. In the small village don't forget to buy some chestnuts, and the local speciality : fried maple leaves. Take care to your bags as monkeys are numerous and try to steal all what they see.

This old house is now a cafe which serves delicious cakes !

Of course there are some temples on the way.

Happy monkey stole an orange. Don't try to give them food, you'll get a fine of 10.000 yen !

Old bridge over the river.

So many differents greens, reds and yellows !

The Minoo waterfall.

Gorgeous !

Illumination Fantasy at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

2009-11-29T15:59:00.010+09:00

Oct.30th 2009 - Feb.21st 2010
(except for Jan.12th, 13th, 14th, Feb.4th and 5th)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
〒552-0022
1-1-10 Kaigandori,Minato-ku,OsakaCity

For more informations, access to:
http://www.kaiyukan.com/topics/events/illumination/

Shinno Matsuri

2009-11-20T09:09:00.002+09:00

On the 22nd and 23rd of November, from 9am, will be held a very important festival in Osaka : the Shinno Matsuri. The small Sukunahikona shrine (少彦名神社) will be crowded with people coming to celebrate the free distribution of medicines during a plague of cholera in 1822. This shrine is also known as Shrine of the Health and Medicine Gods. Don't forget to buy the little paper tiger, as a charm to protect you from diseases !

To go there : Get off at the Kitahama subway station and walk down the avenue for few minutes toward south (google map).

Rare occasion to enjoy japanese old culture in Osaka

2009-11-03T16:48:00.002+09:00

It's called Tanada Yume Akari and will took place in Chihaya Akasakamura Omori, Osaka on the Nov 7
The rice terraces have been kept since the 14th century in this village, and on this day they will be illuminated with 2,000 candles. Fee rice balls, zenzai (sweet dessert) and pork soup offered to the first 300 people accepted!
Time: 5pm-8pm (postponed until Nov 8 in case of rain).
Getting there: Kintetsu Railway Osaka line, Tondabayashi stn, bus to Chihaya-akasaka Chugakuko-mae.
Admission: free
Tel: 0721-72-1447.

Cosmos season in Banpaku Park

2009-10-28T17:43:00.002+09:00

Chrysanthemum exhibition at Osaka Castle

2009-10-25T16:53:00.002+09:00

Exhibition of Chrysanthemum in the park of Osaka Castle, until the 15th of November. Free !

Concert in Osaka

2009-10-22T16:45:00.003+09:00

The group Buck Tick will be on concert at Zepp Osaka on the 24th of October, from 18:00, 6300 yen.

Concert in Osaka

2009-10-11T16:43:00.005+09:00

FREE concerts in Osaka
on the 12th of October, from 12:00 to 19:00
at ATC, in front of the subway station "Tradecenter-mae"

Concert in Osaka

2009-10-04T09:27:00.002+09:00

The British singer-songwriter Steve Appleton will perform at Club Quattro on the 5th of October, at 19:00.
5.500Y, Tel. 06-6281-8181

Events in Osaka

2009-10-03T20:04:00.000+09:00

Shinto treasures of Ise Shrine
until the 9th of November at Osaka Museum of History
9:30 - 16:30
800Y

Evening of Traditional Osaka Performing Arts at Yamamoto Noh Theater
Comic storytelling, geisha games, puppet theater. You can even participate !
English subtitles provided
17th of October 19:00 - 20:45
4500Y / 4000Y / 3500Y with steamed rice and japanese tea
Reservation : 06-6943-9454

AQUA METROPOLIS OSAKA 2009

2009-09-15T18:08:00.001+09:00

Aqua Metropolis Osaka 2009(Suito Osaka) has been holding till the 12th of October, in Nakanoshima area, it's about 10 minutes walk from J-Hoppers Osaka.

Osaka is known as "water metropolis" because many rivers running through.
Also,Osaka has square-shaped "corridors" formed by five rivers. It is very rare in Japan, or even around the world, that such corridors of rivers exist in an urban center.
Centering on the Water Corridors, various development projects and revitalization projects utilizing the riverfronts are now underway. This is an ongoing project to redevelop Nakanoshima Park- a historical and cultural center of Osaka located at the top of the Water Corridor-as a water-oriented park, as well as a project to redevelop Hachikenya-hama as a terminal for river and land transportation.

It has many kinds events, arts, morning market, cafe,walking tour,illuminations..
They update every week and please check the website for more details:

http://www.suito-osaka2009.jp/en/index.html

Neighbour Map for J-Hoppers Osaka renewal !!

2009-08-05T18:08:00.006+09:00

To view on a bigger PDF file, click HERE.

We J-Hoppers Osaka have just revised our neighbour map.
We added lots of useful information. As we are located in the central city of Osaka, there are tons of restaurants or bars near here.

Hope it works for your wandering Osaka and enjoy a Osakan food!

Japanese Baseball Game

2009-07-27T12:34:00.002+09:00

I went to Koshien Baseball Stadium to see Hanshin Tigers game.
Since I live in near this stadium, I have a opportunity to see it very often and I can hear the fans shouting with pleasure at my house.

The crazy fans standing by me was shouting in a hoarse voice all the time. Their hoot is quite funny.
I would say that some of Osakan slangs is the most rude word in Japan. It sounds like they are picking a fight with a player. I always doubt that they really like Tigers.

There are several conventions and rules of Tigers fan.

1.At the bottom of 7th inning, all the Tigers fans release a balloon.
2.If Tigers wins, fans sing a team song "Rokko Oroshi"
3.When Tigers grabs for the chance, fans stand up and start the standing dance.

Remember Tigers is one of the most popular team of all professional baseball teams.
It could be difficult for you to get a ticket at the weekend. Even though weekday the possibility to get one is not high.

It takes about 30 min from J-Hoppers Osaka. If you have any question, or want me to help to buy a ticket, just ask me at J-Hoppers Osaka.

You can buy these Tigers goods at Tiger shop by the stadium.

P.S. I appreciate J-Hoppers Staff Shogo for giving a ticket.

Let's go to Ise !

2009-04-14T10:39:00.002+09:00

I went recently to Ise city (伊勢市）(google location) in Mie Prefecture with my girlfriend. Have you ever heard about it ? This is a very small city but a very important one in japanese history. There is the Ise Grand Shrine where Amaterasu Omikami is worshipped. Amaterasu is the God of Sun, bornt from the left eye of Izanagi, the male God who created Japan Islands with his heavenly spear (read all about this here). From Amaterasu all the Japanese people are descendants. No need to say that's the most sacred shrine of all Japan !

View from the train of rural scene

There is actually two main shrines : the inner one and the outer one. To them are attached 123 others minor ones. The two main shrines are accessible only to the Imperial family and you won't be able to approach nearer than the fourth wooden fence. Minor shrines are accessible though, and the woods around them are gorgeous.

The main shrines are completely rebuilt every 20 years, to symbolize nature cycle and keep this sacred place in perfect state. The next one will be held in 2013. It should be something huge to see ! Until then, leading up events also occur, as collecting huge wooden logs which are used for the reconstruction.

Roof of the inner shrine

In the woods of the outer shrine

Shrine of the God of Wind within the precincts of the outer shrine

Priest at the outer shrine

The queue to pray at the outer shrine

Near the Inner shrine a old shopping street offers full of restaurants to eat the local specialties : the Ise shrimp, and the Ise udon. I tried the second one, it was very good ! I also taste several seafoods directly fished in the vicinity. Mmmmmhh !! But there is not only restaurants. Of course a lot of souvenir shops, and more interesting : very very old buildings.

Fried squid shop

Fishes drying at the sun

Ise udon

Sacred decoration at the entrance of a shop

Old traditional building

Old wooden statue

We also went there to see the Aquarium of Toba (鳥羽市). By bus you can reach Toba in 15 min. from Ise. There is a one day pass (1000 yen) and a two day pass (1600 yen) bringing you to every interesting places of the area. Don't forget to buy it at the tourist information center of Ise (in front of the outer shrine), it will give you reduction on others attractions. The aquarium is mid-sized with several rooms in a range. Each one has a main big aquarium on one side and smaller ones on the two other sides. Windows are quite big, and dugongs and manatees are some of the rare species you can observe here (I LOVE the leafy seadragon). There is also several performances with animals : the classic sea-lions, or more unusually walrus ! Several "view from below" are also available, and always impressive. A small restaurant allow you to take a break if you spend long time there. Also on the lower floor a shell museum, with a large collection of splendid shells from all over the world, is not to be missed, as unfortunately do lot of people due to the "out of the regular course" location.

Leafy seadragon

Performance with a walrus

Finless porpoises

Not yet fried squid ;-)

sharks

scorpion fish

Coral

Another recommendable place in Toba is the Pearl Town on a island in front of the city. You can learn here everything about production of pearls, and of course buy jewelry. You can also see the women diving to collect them. Unfortunately for us we haven't see anything of this as the weather was very bad and we preferred to stay all the day in the aquarium.

Between these two cities another attraction is the Meotoiwa rocks. That's two rocks in the sea linked by a sacred rope. They are symbolizing husband and wife, and their union. Around them few others smaller rocks excited the imagination of local people who tried to find in their shapes some animals or whatever. As one of them is supposed to look like a bullfrog, little statue of this animal started to appear on the seaside, and now it's a real crowd of bullfrog looking at the sea ! Even the fountain to wash your hands before praying at the shrine is shaped like a giant bullfrog.

the meotoiwa rocks

At Ise, we stayed in a traditional ryokan : the Hoshidekan (星出館, staff can speak very few words of english then if you don't speak japanese I recommend to book online). I've already stayed once in a ryokan but it was a 'modern' one. The Hoshidekan exists since years ago, and it is absolutely gorgeous. All made of wood, tatami, sliding paper doors. In the middle, a little garden with greeneries, rocks, a well and a pine (this kind of garden is called a tsuboniwa). Running around it, on the second floor, an alley, one third closed by windows, one third opened on the garden, and one third as a little bridge over the garden linking rooms to a bathroom. Bathrooms are large stalls with ceramics. Tooth brush and tooth paste are provided for free, as well as yukata and linen in the room, and towels in the bathroom. Toilets are half old style and half modern style. The room was perfect : 7.5 tatami sized, with a balcony, an alcove enhanced by ink painting and flower arrangement, two thick futons, tv, phone, tea, cookies, shogi board (I would have preferred Igo though ;-) ). Everything is old but perfectly clean. Before going to bed we also could enjoyed a japanese traditional bath (shared but used privately).

the inner garden

little patio

entrance

in our room

You can have a meal at the ryokan but we preferred to eat outside. It has been a very bad idea ! At 17:00 everything close and the city look like it's dead ! We walked so long to try to find something open ... The only restaurants we found, on a saturday night, was an italian one, which was full, and two cafe with light meal menu. We ended up with a lunch box in our room ! Gladly, for the next morning we had ordered the breakfast. It's given in a large room on the first floor. Fish, Sea weeds, eggs, vegetable and of course rice and tea. Cooked by two very busy grand'ma in the kitchen just behind, it's very very good.

Before coming back home we wanted to buy some omiyage of course. We almost never could ... Everything was already closed in the 'downtown' of Ise. Under the rain it somehow looked like a ghost city ! I also run out of money and couldn't find anywhere to withdraw. A bank ATM who was accessible and accepted one of the card of my girlfriend finally saved us. And we could buy some foods in the *only* one shop opened in the main street. At least, wandering made us discovered several others ryokan in the city, all more beautiful and older than the other. Next time I go to Ise, I want to try the Yamadakan (山田舘). From the outside it's out of words. Probably run by Chihiro herself ;-)

old house in Ise city

From Osaka you can go to Ise with the Kintetsu Ltd Express, from Tsuruhashi station on the loop line to Ise main station. There is two trains per hour (timetable). It takes 1h40mn and costs 3030 yen. So you can even think about doing it as a one day trip from J-Hoppers Osaka.

2009 March Grand Sumo Tournament

2009-03-03T16:23:00.006+09:00

A special SUMO season in Osaka is coming soon !!
It's a good chance to watch matches of lower-division wrestlers.
The ring entering ceremony by top-division wrestlers starts 3:30pm.

Date : March 15th - 29th
Time : around 9 am (venue opens 8 am)
Place : Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium, Osaka
Access : 5 min. walk from subway/JR Namba station
Admission : arena seats D (minimum) 3000JPN

*If you really want to watch it, you should be in a hurry to book a ticket !!
http://www.sumo.or.jp/eng/ticket/index.html

FURIMA OKOKU (Big Flea Market)

2009-03-01T19:16:00.002+09:00

One of the biggest indoor flea markets in OSAKA !

A huge variety of items are on offer, including brand new clothes, second-hand goods, furniture, lighting, jewellery, books and antiques.
Forget about the cold weather and enjoy finding good stuff and bargaining!!

Place : INTEX OSAKA
Access : New tram Nan-ko Port Town line, Nakahuto station
Time : March 7th & 8th, 10:00-17:00
Admission :500 JPN (advance ticket 400 JPN)

http://www.tv-osaka.co.jp/event/furimaoukoku2009/

Plum blossom in Osaka castle

2009-02-24T19:31:00.006+09:00

Hurry! Go to Osaka castle to see plum blossom!

95 species and about 1,250 Japanese plum trees planted there become well known for early flowering from the end of January as usual. They are characteristically made low and wide by trimming, so that visitors can enjoy KANBAI easily without casting their eyes up.

It will be very very crowded with people in Cherry blossom season around the end of March, but it's not so many now and you will have beautiful flowers with peaceful atmosphere.

should go to now "SPA WORLD"!!

2009-02-04T08:39:00.018+09:00

What is "SPA WORLD"?

It's an Onsen theme park with full resort facilities, and features natural hot springs from around the world. It's in Shinimamiya, Osaka and it's very easy to get there by JR loop line.
There are two types of Spa floors, "European zone" and "Asian zone".
Do you prefer Asian one? Sorry, you can not choose because they fix the schedule as below.

*European zone : Jan / Mar / May / Jul / Sep / Nov - WOMEN only
Feb / Apr / Jun / Aug / Oct / Dec - MEN only

"ATLANTIS"

*Asian zone : Jan / Mar / May / Jul / Sep / Nov - MEN only

Feb / Apr / Jun / Aug / Oct / Dec - WOMEN only

"渓流 Mountain stream in Japan"

Therefore you can not enjoy with your boy/girl friend in those two floors even if you wear a swim wear .. but it's worth to go even by yourself.
(There is "BADE zone" which you can enjoy with anyone with a swim wear if you really want to be with your lover, but there are only two kinds of baths and open 10:00-22:00)

They also have amusement pools,sport gyms,and a sauna etc.
The admission is 2400 yen for 3 hours, and 2700 yen for all day use.(10:00-24:00 weekday)
BUT!
It's only 1000 YEN for all day use until the 30th of April !!!!
It's because three TV entertainers produced special bath powder for one of TV show in Osaka, and you can try these baths,too.
If you are there between 24:00 - 5:00, need to pay plus 1000 yen for late-night use,but 2000 yen in total is still reasonable. (They open 24 hours)

spa world
http://www.spaworld.co.jp/english/index.html

Why don't you go there after your long walk?