Osaka is a large port city and commercial center on the Japanese island of Honshu. It is Japan’s second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo. It has been the economic powerhouse of the Kansai region for many centuries. In many ways it's the soul of Japan. Osaka is laid back and down-to-earth. It’s a great place to experience a large, modern Japanese city in all its glory and for significantly less money. The city is all about great food (and lots of it) and shopping, especially bargain shopping. Best of all, Osaka is packed with friendly and easygoing citizens who are at ease with foreign visitors. Indeed, it’s probably easier to have a good time in Osaka than any other city in Japan. So, if you’re coming to Japan, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in Osaka. It’s always a pleasant surprise!