Osaka

Osaka is predominantly divided into wards which are referred to as 'ku' in Japanese. Kita-ku, located in the North is primarily the business and commercial area. Minami-ku in the south is principally the shopping and entertainment hub of the city. From the outset, Osaka seems like a futuristic city which is in part due to the impressive modern architecture that lines the streets. However, more recently, it has been looking back to its past – now restoring beautiful parks and public areas that showcase a long history of excellence and attention to detail. The people of Osaka are often called “kuidaore,” meaning that they become poor because of their extravagance in eating and drinking. Shopping and eating are certainly the preferred activities here.