We left Hiroshima at midday to continue our journey on board the famous Shinkansen towards Shin-Osaka. This high-speed train, a symbol of Japanese modernity and efficiency, took us through breathtaking scenery. In just an hour and a half, we covered an impressive distance while enjoying the unparalleled comfort of this mode of transport.
But before boarding the train, it was impossible to resist an unmissable tradition: the choice of an ekiben (or ekibento), those fabulous meal trays available at the stations. Each station offers a unique variety of ekiben, often featuring local specialities. In Hiroshima, these meals can sometimes include flavours reminiscent of the famous okonomiyaki or fresh seafood. Carefully prepared and beautifully presented, these meals are true works of culinary art. The choice is always a dilemma: should you choose the variety of dishes, the quality of the ingredients or simply the beauty of the packaging? In the end, I opted for a colourful assortment that turned out to be as tasty as it was elegant.
Once on the Shinkansen, we enjoyed our ekiben while admiring the scenery as it whizzed by. From lush green mountains to picturesque villages, the journey is an experience in itself, making every moment more memorable. Japan, with its blend of urban bustle and natural tranquillity, surprises us at every turn.
Once we'd checked into our hotel, we took the time to do some laundry, which was much needed. It might not be the most glamorous part of travelling, but it's an essential step for any adventurer on the road! Luckily, the hotel had washing machines available for use, conveniently located just downstairs. What a relief!
In a country as well organised as Japan, even everyday tasks are surprisingly practical. The machines are up-to-date and easy to use, and often have built-in dryers. While our clothes were in the washing machine, we used the time to plan the rest of our trip and recharge our batteries after the Shinkansen journey.
It's a real blessing for travellers to have this kind of service at their fingertips. There's no need to waste time looking for a laundrette. It's also a great chance to travel light, with just the essentials in our suitcases: a smaller bag that we always have clean clothes ready for when we're on the go.
We decided to head to Dotonbori, which is Osaka's most popular district. As the hotel was only a 16-minute metro ride or a 20-minute walk away, we decided to walk. As keen sportspeople, we thought this was the perfect option! What a surprise it was! The walk to Dotonbori was like an open-air gallery, with shops and restaurants as far as the eye could see.
Every step was an opportunity to discover something new, with colourful shop windows and tantalising smells catching our attention. This lovely walk gave us a chance to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Osaka. When we got to Dōtonburi, we were met by bright neon lights and lots of people, which made us think we were in for a great experience in this iconic district. It's a great way to explore the city and soak up the local energy and culture!
Dotonburi at night is really something special. The thousands of lights create a magical atmosphere. You've got to see it to believe it! Our first activity was to take a ride on the Don Quijote Ferris wheel. It was a truly unforgettable experience!
The ride lasts about 15 minutes and offers a fantastic view of the illuminated city. You can appreciate the vibrant neon lights and Osaka cityscape in a whole new way. The entrance fee is very reasonable, at just 1,000 yen (around €6) per adult. The incredible view makes it all worthwhile! It's a great way to kick off your exploration of Dōtonburi, a place full of magic and energy.
We had dinner at a yakitori restaurant opposite Don Quijote, and it was another great experience! We chose a restaurant in the Gyu Kaku chain, which offers an all-inclusive package for eating and drinking for 90 minutes. It was the perfect way to treat ourselves after a long day of exploring.
We went for the pricier option, which included wagyu beef – a real treat – and unlimited soft drinks. For around €40 per person, it was a real treat! The quality of the meat was exceptional, and it was great to be able to grill our own meal. It was a delicious way to end our day in Dōtonburi, right in the middle of the bustle and lights of the city. It was a real treat for the taste buds!
After such a feast, a short walk is a great way to digest your food! As you probably know, a Saturday night in the Dōtonburi district attracts a lot of people, and the atmosphere is particularly lively. It's great to see so many people enjoying the city. Some were already dressed up for Halloween, which added a festive touch to the evening!
The twinkling lights, laughter and celebrations create a vibrant and joyful atmosphere. I hope you've captured some great photos of the city at night! It's a great opportunity to capture some magical moments.
I hope you have a great night and look forward to seeing you tomorrow for your second day in Osaka. Have fun exploring everything that's in store for you!
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