Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi:Overview & History

The historical meaning of Umeda is "reclaimed fields," as the area was originally developed from wetlands. As a town beneath Osaka Castle, Umeda has flourished as an entertainment district since the 17th century. The opening of Osaka Station in 1874 triggered further development in the area. With the opening of Hanshin Umeda Station in 1906, Hankyu Umeda Station in 1910, and Osaka Metro Umeda Station in 1933, Umeda became the largest terminal station in the Kansai region. With many office buildings nearby, Umeda is also the largest business district in the Kansai region.

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi:Area Introduction

At the center of Osaka, Umeda is bustling with businessmen, students, and tourists. Many renovation projects have been carried out rapidly in recent years, and new commercial facilities have opened their doors one after another. With many high-rise buildings in the area, why not enjoy the stunning view of Osaka from one of its many observation decks?

Umeda Surrounding Areas

Umeda is the central area of Osaka, and serves as a hub for transportation and business. Two private railways, Hankyu Railway and Hanshin Railway, begin at Umeda Station. Umeda features many interconnected underground shopping areas such as Whity Umeda, allowing for convenience in reaching your destination without needing to go to ground level. On the other hand, the sprawling underground passages can cause many people to lose their way.

Osaka Station Surrounding Areas

Osaka Station City opened in 2011 as a large-scale complex, following renovation works across JR Osaka Station and the surrounding area. The complex is connected to Grand Front Osaka via a walkway. Osaka Station City features a variety of facilities, including high-rise buildings standing over 150 meters tall, as well as a hotel, department stores, and a theater.

Kitashinchi Surrounding Areas

Kitashinchi is Osaka's leading high-class entertainment district, and is home to some 3,000 eateries including ryotei (refined Japanese restaurants), bars, lounges, and clubs. The nearby Sonezaki Ohatsutenjin-dori Shopping Street includes more down-to-earth eating establishments such as izakaya (Japanese-style bars) and shops serving okonomiyaki (a savory mix between a pancake and a pizza, topped with, meat, vegetables, and other ingredients).

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi:Must-See Events

Mid-April: Cherry Blossoms at the Japan Mint

The lines of cherry trees in bloom at the Osaka Mint are one of the most famous sights within Osaka in the spring. The Osaka Mint allows the public to pass between its gates at the north and south when the trees are in blossom. Walk along a pathway stretching some 560 meters across, as you surround yourself in pink petals. At night, the cherry trees are illuminated by bonbori (paper lanterns) for a mesmerizing experience.

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi:Access

Access from Kansai International Airport to Osaka Station

From Kansai Airport Station, take the JR Kansai Airport Line Limited Express Haruka No. 22 bound for Kyoto, ride for 34 minutes, and then get off at Tennoji Station. Transfer to the JR Yamatoji Rapid Service bound for Tennoji, ride for 15 minutes, and then get off at Osaka Station.

Access from Osaka International Airport to Osaka Station

From Osaka-Airport Station, take the Osaka Monorail bound for Kadoma-shi Station, ride for three minutes, and then get off at Hotarugaike Station. Transfer to the Hankyu Takarazuka Line Express bound for Umeda, ride for 15 minutes, get off at Hankyu Umeda Station, and then walk to Osaka Station.

Access from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Main Line Special Rapid Service Train bound for Himeji, ride for 28 minutes, and then get off at Osaka Station.

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