Caribbean
Osaka is one of Japan’s largest cities second only to Tokyo. Formerly known as Naniwa, this neon-lit metropolis carries with it a special historical legacy having been chosen as the venue for Japanese samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s castle in the 16th century. During this time, Naniwa was regarded as the country’s first capital city ever. These days however, Osaka is a bubbling commercial hub spilling over with endless street food, contemporary architecture and a thriving party scene after dark.
Tipping.
Keep in mind that there is NO tipping culture in Japan. If you do extend a tip, prepare to be met with inquiring eyes and chaos. It is considered rude to tip. A simple thank you (“arigato”) is enough to show your gratitude for the service.
Lingo in Osaka.
For Osakans, the commonly used dialect is Kansai dialect or Kansai-ben and it’s a speech you’ll hear often on the streets. Interestingly, even in Kansai-ben there are different accents, words and sentence endings if you move from Osaka to Kyoto and Jobe.
General lingo.
Really = Honma Ni?
How are you = Moukari Makka?
Oh my god / don’t do that = Akan!
Thank you = Ookini!
Let’s go = Houna Ikoka
Yeah that’s right (in agreement) = Sou Yana
What the hell! = Nande ya nen!
How's business? = Mokarimakka?
Thank you so much = Honma ookini
You get the hell out of here! = Hayo kaere omae!
Eating out/ shopping lingo.
Welcome, Thank you for coming = Maido!(Welcome!)
How much is this? = Kore, nanbo?
What, no snacks? = Ate nainka?
Food in izakaya-style bars served as soon as a customer sits down, Appetizer (“also called “otoshi”) = Tsukidashi
This appetizer is delicious = Kono tsukidashi, oishii naa
Nimono (boiled or stewed food) = Taitan
It’s straight down the end of the street = Kono michi wo massugu itta dontsuki ni aru de
Throw this garbage away = Kono gomi, hokashitoite
Get your flirt on!
When are you free? = aiteru jikan wa itsu?
What time shall we meet? = nanji ni au?
Do you want to go to dinner with me? = Isshou ni gohan tabeni ikanai?
What are you addicted to these days = saikin nani ni hamateiru no?
What were you doing last weekend? = senshuumatsu wa nani wo shita?
Your {noun} is/are pretty = Noun + ga + kirei
Hairstyle = Heastairu
Smile = Egao
Nose = Hana
Skin = Hada
Transport from Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport).
There are 3 ways to get to and from Osaka - by taxi, train and bus.
Taxi.
The travel time by taxi from Osaka airport to Osaka city center is 40 minutes and the taxi fare will cost around $120 USD.
Train.
The cheapest way from Osaka airport to city center is by train for $9 USD and the fastest way is only 40 minutes by Nankai Airport Express.
Bus.
There are also buses leaving from Osaka airport to city for $14 USD if you go to one of the bus stops for your accommodation.
Best time to travel.
Fall season which is from October to November and spring season from March to May.
