The city may lie only 250 miles west of the Japanese capital, Tokyo — just three hours by Shinkansen bullet train — but Osaka exudes a completely different feel. As a large port and commercial center, it has long served as a gateway to southern Japan and is known as the “nation’s kitchen” thanks to its historic importance in the rice trade. It’s also the culinary capital of Japan, with a massive tradition of eating out. Make sure you try the famous takoyaki, a kind of octopus dumpling topped with tempura scraps, pickled ginger and green onion. You can see the best the city has to offer on a foodie tour, where a local guide will take you around Osaka’s hidden spots. No matter how strong your Google skills, you just wouldn’t find some of these back-alley establishments yourself, so it’s well worth the price. Check out tour operators Backstreet Osaka Tours, City Unscripted Osaka and Taste Osaka.

Takoyaki © Ppy2010ha | Dreamstime.com

Osaka is also known for shopping, particularly American vintage fashion, so much so an entire neighborhood takes its name from the plethora of stores found there. Amerika Mura, or Amemura, proves a great place to spend time wandering around. You won’t need a guide here as there is more than enough to keep you busy for an afternoon by yourself. It’s central, too, so you may consider staying in one of the many hotels in the area. If you’d rather enjoy some Japanese retail therapy, check out stores from local brands such as United Arrows, Beams and Edwin.

Another option: Take a trip to the 16th-century Osaka Castle, one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. If you want to take a quick spin, opt for a self-guided tour, but those with an interest in history will benefit from a private guided tour. Sports fans visiting during the baseball season can take in a Hanshin Tigers game at Hanshin Koshien Stadium. Just don’t get overexcited and jump off Ebisu Bridge into the Doton- bori Canal, as some fans have been known to do after their team wins.