Book well ahead for elegant sunset drinks.

Party capital:Nine must-do highlights of Osaka,Japan

The city’s reputation as Japan’s premier party town is challenged by few. Here’s how to make the most of a brief visit.

  • byJamie Lafferty
Aloft Osaka Dojima is the sister brand to close by W Hotel.
★★★★
Hotel reviews

If Taylor Swift were here,she’d be staying in these knockout corner suites

In Osaka,Aloft adopts the hip aesthetic of its sister brand W Hotel (just down the road) but without the high price tag.

  • byKylie McLaughlin
Osaka Castle:we arrive to hundreds of cherry trees in dazzling peak bloom.

Two things you must do to guarantee you’ll see Japan’s cherry blossoms

Organising a trip to coincide with Mother Nature’s whims can feel like trying to catch lightning in a bottle. If only I’d known this before visiting.

  • byKristie Kellahan
The writer expected this no-frills experience to be the worst flight of her life. Happily,it wasn't.

Airline review:Jetstar B787 economy,Osaka to Cairns

If you've prepared properly (with warm clothes,food,sleep aids),you'll be in for a bargain-basement surprise.

  • byKatrina Lobley
Shinsekai district in Osaka,Japan.

Osaka tour,Japan:Neon charms in Shinsekai,Osaka's former fun park

Lovers of vintage neon and the grittier side of Japan will love this night tour of Osaka's Shinsekai.

  • byLesley Holden
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Relax in the lobby's oasis of calm before heading out into the busy neon metropolis.

Hotel review:Swissotel Nankai,Osaka

The Swissotel Nankai is right in the heart of the action in the bustling south side of Osaka.

  • byPaul Chai
Kinosaki Onsen,Japan

Bathhouses in Japan:The most fun you can have naked

A few hours at Osaka's Spa World provide almost as much fun as can be had with your clothes off.

  • byKeith Austin
Street kart tour,Mario kart tour.

MariCAR Osaka:Where you can go Mario Kart-ing in Japan

Yes it is possible to enter the world of Mario Kart on a real street,with real traffic and a real Super Mario onesie.

  • byKeith Austin
Dotombori Area,Osaka.

Tips on eating in Osaka,Japan:Where to find the best food

Japan's third largest city offers loads of tasty opportunities to fill up.

  • byKeith Austin
Osaka street vendors preparing fried octopus balls (takoyaki).

Things to do in Osaka,Japan:A three-minute guide

Wealthy,quirky and fun-loving,Japan's third-largest city is fascinating.

  • byBrian Johnston