What to do in Shiki District

Marvel at the illuminated billboards and savor gourmet meals at Dotonbori, Osaka's primary entertainment district. This glitzy precinct, situated around the Dotonbori Canal, offers diverse shopping, compelling landmarks and a large selection of high-quality Japanese restaurants.

Learn about Japan's bloody history and Osaka's ancient rulers at Osaka Castle. This romantic multi-tier castle stands on a 264-acre (106-hectare) block of raised and fortified land, and is one of the city's most iconic sites.

The Tsūtenkaku Tower, an enormous construction and tribute to a god of good fortune, has become an icon of Osaka. Take an hour or two to discover the eight-sided tower, its commanding views over the city and its statue of Billiken, a Japanese god of happiness.

Pamper yourself with a day of stress-melting baths, healing steam and mud massages at Osaka's Spa World. This popular health center prides itself on offering a huge range of international spa and sauna experiences.

At Kuromon Ichiba, Osaka's premier street food market, collect fresh vegetables, seafood or exotic meats for a meal at home. Sample fine produce that would please any gourmet.