Osaka

Osaka is pleasantly temperate all year round but it is probably preferable to avoid the humidity and the heat of the summer months which can become uncomfortable. The city can also get quite crowded from June through August. The best times to go are the spring and autumn months when temperatures and crowds have subsided. Towards the end of March, the cherry blossoms come to life for one beautiful week until their delicate petals fall a week later at the start of April.

Osaka Central Post Office is the main post office in Osaka where you can go to send all types of mail and packages, either domestic or international. The postal service in Japan is fairly uncomplicated and the staff are very helpful. Post boxes are red and stamps can be obtained online and printed out. For express services, a separate form must be filled out in relation to the EMS (Express Mail Service) or you can contact one of the other international companies such as DHL and Federal Express.

Considering that Osaka is the third biggest city in Japan, you can easily find a pharmacy here. Medical care in Japan is considered some of the best in the world and the Universal Healthcare system throughout the country ensures good health for all inhabitants. Perhaps the largest and most comprehensive drugstore chain in Osaka is the Sugi Drugstore, which offers a wide array of OTC (Over the Counter) medicines as well as non-essential items. Pharmacies in Japan are referred to as 'Yakkyoku' and stock prescription medicines that require the consent of a doctor for purchase.

Is Osaka expensive? Japan, on the whole, is an expensive country to visit and live in but Osaka is much more affordable than Tokyo. Is Osaka safe? Generally speaking, yes. Japan is a very safe country to visit, however, Osaka does have the highest crime rate in all of Japan. Try to stay out of the Kamagasaki district to avoid any unwanted attention. What is Osaka known for? Osaka is the second largest city in Japan and as such, has a very long and interesting history. It was once even the capital of the country before Tokyo was established. It is also home to the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan.