大阪(おおさか)

大阪(おおさか) is Japan's third-largest city and the center of the 関西(かんさい) region in western Japan. Historically a merchant city, it is known for its vibrant food culture and friendly, outgoing locals.

Characteristics

• Famous food culture: お好(この)み焼(や)き (okonomiyaki), たこ焼(や)き (takoyaki)
• Known for 大阪弁(おおさかべん) (Osaka dialect), a lively regional dialect
• 天下(てんか)の台所(だいどころ) ('nation's kitchen') — a historical nickname

Key places

• 大阪城(おおさかじょう): Osaka Castle
• 道頓堀(どうとんぼり): Dotonbori (entertainment district)
• 通天閣(つうてんかく): Tsutenkaku Tower

Related words

• 大阪府(おおさかふ): Osaka Prefecture
• 大阪(おおさか)市(し): Osaka City