There’s a unique thrill in walking through LAX solo, passport in one hand, emotional baggage checked at the gate. It’s that unmistakable scent of overpriced coffee, fresh opportunities, and the faint aftertaste of “I’m doing just fine, thank you.”
It all started six months earlier, over gin and laughter at a Galentine’s weekend, when I did what any self-respecting woman with a bad case of wanderlust would do — I invited myself on someone else’s trip. Luckily, these women are the kind who embrace spontaneity, so before long, we had a group chat, an itinerary, and a shared countdown to Japan.
My dear friend Shannon and I roomed together — as we’ve done countless times over the past 25 years. Our friendship has weathered nearly everything life can throw at two people: a brain tumor, buying and selling of homes, marriages, divorces, late nights, and laughter that healed more than a few heartbreaks. What’s evolved between us is something deeper than friendship — it’s family. And traveling with someone who knows your quirks, your caffeine requirements, and your pre-coffee silence? That’s pure luxury.
The flight itself was a blur of snacks, movies, and “Can you believe we’re really doing this?” grins. When we finally landed in Osaka, the jet lag was no match for our excitement. Japan had been calling — and we were finally answering. Destination: Osaka, the loud, proud, food-loving heart of Japan. If Tokyo is the sophisticated older sister, Osaka is the one doing karaoke at brunch and convincing you to take another shot of sake.
First Stop: Osaka Castle
Our adventure officially began at Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most striking landmarks. Rising proudly above the park’s greenery, the castle looks like something plucked straight out of a storybook — white walls, turquoise roofs, and golden accents that glint in the sunlight.
Fun Facts about Osaka Castle:
- Originally built in 1583 by the legendary warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle played a major role in unifying Japan.
- The structure you see today is actually a 1931 reconstruction, now housing a museum filled with samurai armor, historical artifacts, and sweeping panoramic views from the top.
- The castle grounds cover over 100 hectares — perfect for a peaceful walk or a snack stop.
- During cherry blossom season, the surrounding park turns into one of Osaka’s most photogenic spots (a strong reason to come back).
After wandering through the grounds and snapping photos, we stumbled upon a street vendor selling milk shaved ice — the softest, creamiest frozen treat imaginable. I swear it could convert even the most devoted ice cream purist. Sweet, milky, and blissfully refreshing, it was the perfect way to cool off after exploring in the afternoon sun.
Pro tip: Don’t stop at just one vendor. Try a little bit of everything — takoyaki (fried octopus balls), okonomiyaki(savory pancakes), and anything skewered, grilled, or deep-fried. Osaka is called “Japan’s Kitchen” for a reason — you’ll want to taste your way through it.
An Afternoon in Dōtonbori
That afternoon, we headed into Dōtonbori, the pulsing heart of Osaka. If Osaka Castle is where you go to soak in the past, Dōtonbori is where you come alive in the present.
Fun Facts about Dōtonbori:
- The Dōtonbori canal was completed in 1612, transforming the area into an entertainment and theater district centuries ago.
- Today, it’s one of Osaka’s most famous destinations for shopping, dining, and night photography.
- You can’t miss the Glico Running Man — a massive neon sign that’s been lighting up the area since 1935. It’s basically a rite of passage to pose in front of it.
- The local saying here is “kuidaore”, meaning “eat until you drop.” (Challenge accepted.)
We wandered around, soaking in the chaos of color, the sizzle of street food, and the constant stream of laughter that filled the streets. We shopped, we ate (again), and we got lost more than once — the best kind of lost.
At one point, Shannon and I stopped mid-street just to take it all in. The lights reflected in the canal, the hum of chatter around us, the feeling that we were exactly where we were meant to be.
A Toast to Friendship and New Adventures
Traveling with a friend who’s seen every version of you — the ambitious one, the heartbroken one, the resilient one — is something special. There’s a freedom in it. No pretending, no perfection required. Just laughter, shared wonder, and an understanding nod when someone’s energy dips or snacks are urgently required.
Our first day in Japan wasn’t just about exploring Osaka — it was about rediscovering what makes travel so incredible: connection, curiosity, and a little chaos along the way.
Felicity Arvizu takes on... 