North Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions of North, along with the best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to North

North is a district in the northern part of Osaka, located in Kansai, Japan. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque natural landscapes, and bustling urban areas. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to explore North and experience its unique charm.

List of Places to Visit in North

North has plenty of attractions to offer, from culturally important museums and historical places to scenic outdoor adventures and hiking routes. Here’s a list of must-visit places in North:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Senri-Susukino Historical Museum: This museum provides visitors with a glimpse of the lives of the people who lived in Senri-Susukino, an ancient village in North, during the Jomon period.
  2. Minoh Park: A park that is popular for its gorgeous waterfall and the stunning autumn leaves.
  3. Osaka National Museum of Art: One of the finest art museums in Japan that houses a remarkable collection of Japanese and Western art.
  4. Kita Tenjinsha Shrine: This shrine features a grand festival, which is held annually in July, and attended by thousands of visitors.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Rokko: This mountain offers picturesque views of Osaka Bay and the city of Kobe.
  2. Minoh Waterfall: One of the best waterfalls in Japan that is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.
  3. The Expo Commemoration Park: A beautiful park, spread over a wide area, that offers various opportunities for strolling, cycling, and exploring.
  4. Temmabashi River Walk: A scenic riverside promenade that is perfect for an evening walk or a morning jog.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

North offers various hiking and biking trails that wind through the stunning natural landscapes of the region. Some of the popular routes include:

  1. Mount Rokko: This mountain offers various hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, that take you through lush forests and scenic views.
  2. Minoh Park: This park offers several hiking trails that lead to the stunning Minoh waterfall and offer scenic views of the surrounding nature.
  3. Kita-Koen Park: This park offers a cycling trail, which is perfect for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the region on a bike.
  4. Expo Commemoration Park: This park offers various trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a jog.

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

North offers plenty of things to do, from exploring the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region to indulging in various activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in North:

  1. Visit the Senri-Susukino Historical Museum to learn about the Jomon period and the lives of the people who lived in ancient Senri-Susukino.
  2. Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Osaka National Museum of Art, and explore the remarkable collection of Japanese and Western art.
  3. Explore the scenic outdoors of Mount Rokko, and take a cable car ride to the top to enjoy panoramic views of Osaka Bay and the city of Kobe.
  4. Discover the stunning beauty of Minoh Waterfall, and take a hike through the lush natural surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

If you’re planning to explore North, consider the following week-long itinerary that covers the major attractions of the region:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive at Kansai International Airport, take the train to North, and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the local area and its hustle and bustle.
Day 2 Visit Senri-Susukino Historical Museum and Minoh Park, and hike to the Minoh Waterfall.
Day 3 Explore the Osaka National Museum of Art and Kita Tenjinsha Shrine.
Day 4 Take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Rokko and enjoy panoramic views of Osaka Bay and the city of Kobe.
Day 5 Visit the Expo Commemoration Park and take a walk along the scenic Temmabashi River Walk.
Day 6 Rent a bike to explore Kita-Koen Park and its surroundings.
Day 7 Visit the local shops and markets, and purchase souvenirs and local products. Bid farewell to North and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of North

North has a diverse culinary scene, with plenty of options for foodies to explore. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Takoyaki: A popular snack food that is made of diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onions, mixed with batter and fried.
  2. Kushikatsu: Deep-fried skewered meat, vegetables, and seafood that are coated in bread crumbs.
  3. Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake that is made of various ingredients like meat, seafood, and vegetables, and topped with a sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
  4. Ramen: Noodles served in a meat or fish broth, topped with various ingredients like pork, chicken, or seafood.

Local Beverages

  1. Sake: This is a traditional Japanese rice wine that is locally produced and can be found in most bars and restaurants.
  2. Yuzu Sake: A traditional local sake, flavored with yuzu fruit that is grown locally.
  3. Japanese whisky: Known for its smooth and mellow flavor, Japanese whisky is an excellent option for those looking for a lighter drink.

Where to Stay in North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North has plenty of options for accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  1. InterContinental Osaka: A luxurious hotel that offers exceptional service, spacious and well-appointed rooms, and modern amenities.
  2. Osaka Guesthouse MenyaTaizen: A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers affordable accommodation in a central location of North.
  3. Khaosan World Tennoji Hostel: A hostel that offers a mix of private rooms and shared dormitories, and is located close to major attractions of North.

What to Buy in North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North has plenty of shopping options, from local markets and shops to shopping malls and department stores. Here are some must-buy souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  1. Takoyaki grill pan: A special frying pan that is used to make takoyaki, a popular snack food in Japan.
  2. Yuzu soap and cosmetics: Made with local yuzu fruit, these products are known for their refreshing and invigorating scent.
  3. Japanese ceramics: North has a thriving ceramics industry, and you can find a variety of beautiful and unique pieces in local shops and markets.
  4. Sake and Japanese whisky: North produces some of the finest sake and whisky in Japan, and you should definitely bring some back home.

Local Culture and Customs of North

North has its unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites and shrines.
  2. Tipping is not customary in Japan, and it is considered rude. All services are included in the bill.
  3. Always take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or any designated area.
  4. Do not litter or smoke in public areas. Public smoking is generally not allowed in many areas.

Best Time to Visit North

The best time to visit North is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, and you can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region. However, North can be visited all year round for its indoor attractions like museums and galleries.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting North:

Do:

  1. Try the local food and drinks.
  2. Take off your shoes before entering a home or a temple.
  3. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to communicate with the locals.
  4. Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  1. Tip in restaurants or taxis.
  2. Smoke in public areas or litter.
  3. Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  4. Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

North is a safe region to visit, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take necessary precautions and be aware of their surroundings. Here is some essential safety and health information for visitors:

Safety in North

  1. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  2. Secure your valuables and important documents in your hotel safe.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  4. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas.

Health in North

  1. North has a good healthcare system, and visitors can use the local healthcare facilities in case of any medical emergency.
  2. Tap water is safe to drink in North; however, it is recommended to carry a bottle of water while travelling.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

North is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy to access the region. Here are some transport options and logistics for visitors:

Airports Near North

  1. Kansai International Airport is the major airport near North and is located around 80 km away.
  2. Osaka International Airport is another airport near North, located around 25 km away, and is well-connected by various modes of transport.

Bus Stations Near North

  1. The Ekimae Bus Stop is the major bus stop in North, located outside the Kita-senri Station.

Other Options

  1. North is well-connected by rail, with the Hankyu Railway and the Osaka Monorail providing easy access.
  2. Taxis and rental cars are other options for visitors who prefer private transport.

How to Get Around in North

North has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and subways, making it easy to get around the region. Here are some transport options and logistics for visitors:

  1. The Hankyu Railway is the major rail network in North, providing easy access to major attractions in the region.
  2. The Osaka Monorail is another rail network that covers various areas of North.
  3. Buses and subways are other options for visitors who prefer public transport.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North is located close to various iconic regions in Japan, making it an excellent base to explore the surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  1. Kyoto: A city located around 50 km from North, known for its well-preserved temples, gardens, and ancient streets.
  2. Nara: A city located around 40 km from North, known for its deer park, temples, and historical landmarks.
  3. Hiroshima: A city located around 250 km from North, famous for its peace park and museum, and its delicious okonomiyaki.

Conclusion

Exploring North is a unique and enriching experience, and this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the essential information you need to plan your trip. From the cultural and natural attractions to the food and drink scene, local customs and culture, safety and health information, and transport options, this guide has covered everything to make your trip memorable and enjoyable. We hope you have a wonderful time exploring North and discovering all the unique beauty the region has to offer.