The Backpack Adventures

Day 750:  November 21, 2023 Tuesday –  4-Day Osaka Solo Trip D4 It's a beautiful morning here in Kumatori Today marked the final day of my Osaka adventure. The morning greeted me with bright sunshine, a refreshing change from yesterday's gloomy weather. Although a road trip sounded tempting, my departure was scheduled for 11 AM. Mr. Toshi prepared a delicious breakfast Until next time! Thank you, Kameyama family , for letting me stay at your place. Kumatori manhole cover Mr. Toshi surprised me with a delicious breakfast, carefully prepared and beautifully presented, which immediately set a warm and cheerful tone for the day. The meal was more than just food; it felt like a heartfelt send-off, filled with the comfort and care that had made my stay so memorable. After breakfast, my Japanese family kindly drove me from their home in Kumatori ( 熊取町 ) to Kansai International Airport’s Terminal 2 .  Mr. Toshi and Ms. Taeko drove me to the airport Arrived at the domestic term...

10 More Things to Do in Osaka City Osaka City ( 大阪市 ) is the capital of Osaka Prefecture, Japan . Historically known as Naniwa during the Asuka and Nara periods, it once served as the nation’s capital. The modern boundaries of Osaka City were established in 1889, and it was officially designated as a city in 1956. The kanji “ 大 ” ( ō ) means “ large ,” while “ 阪 ” ( saka ) means “ hill ,” reflecting the city’s dynamic landscape and spirit. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what else to explore, here are 10 more things to do in Osaka City . Hozenji 1. Visit Hozenji ( 法善寺 ) , a serene little shrine hidden along a charming alley just steps away from the bustling Dotonbori area. Before making a wish, be sure to pour water over the moss-covered statue of the deity Fudomyoo , a local tradition believed to bring good fortune.   Duskin Museum 2. Visit the Duskin Museum ( ダスキンミュージアム ) and discover the fascinating history behind Mister Donut. Don’t miss the fun and intera...

The first time I visited Hozenji ( 法善寺 ) was on December 30 th , 2014 , during our first trip to Japan. During that trip, my family and I were accompanied by our Japanese friends. It was a memorable trip as it was a side trip during our Dotonbori exploration. Hozenji I revisited Hozenji on November 20, 2023 , during the third day of my 4-Day Osaka Solo Trip 2023 . It was also my 749th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme . I was traveling alone on this trip, with Hozenji as my main destination and Dotonbori as a side trip. Hozenji - Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture Since I wrote about Hozenji before, here’s a summary of Hozenji's details. A Glimpse into Hozenji’s History Hozenji was founded around 1637 during the Edo Period. The temple enshrines Fudo Myo-o , one of the Five Wisdom Kings (Myoo) — guardians who protect Buddhist teachings. Fudo Myo-o, whose name means “Immovable Wisdom King,” is usually portrayed holding a sword to symbolize wisdom that cuts throu...