If you think Japan’s public transport is just about trains, think again. During my recent trip to Japan, I stumbled upon a delightful surprise on a rainy day in Osaka: the underground.
The underground network in Japan isn’t just about transportation; it’s a whole other world waiting to be explored. Osaka’s underground, in particular, is extensive and full of charm, offering much more than just a means to get from point A to point B.
Namba Underground: Spread across three zones, Namba’s underground boasts a plethora of dining options ! But it’s not just about food; you’ll find fashion boutiques, bookstores, a flower shop, and even a fortune-telling center down there.
The underground stations in Japan are like mini-cities, each with its own unique quirks and surprises. Did you know that Chicago and Osaka are sister cities? I learned this fascinating fact during my visit when I stumbled upon recreations of impressionist paintings from the Art Institute of Chicago housed in the Namba underground. Where else can you enjoy a convenience store rice ball while admiring a Renoir?
Events and Entertainment: The underground isn’t just a place for shopping and dining; it also hosts a variety of events, both planned and spontaneous. Currently, several areas in Osaka are gearing up for haunted-house functions – the one in Namba has a ‘shopping center after dark’ theme. Meanwhile, the underground’s courtyards serve as safe havens for break-dancers and university dance troupes to practice their routines.
Convenient Connections: With JR lines, Hankyu lines, Hanshin lines, and city subway lines converging underground, navigating Osaka’s public transport network couldn’t be easier. Clearly labeled signs and the absence of car-filled streets make the underground the preferred route for transfers and meet-ups with friends – a sentiment rarely echoed about underground systems in other countries.
Exploring the Underground: I encourage you to discover the wonders of Osaka’s underground on your next visit. It’s like stepping into a whole different city without any additional travel time.
Japan’s public transport system is unparalleled in its efficiency and convenience. While Namba underground boasts an art gallery, Tokyo’s Shinjuku station is the busiest in the world, and the country’s bullet trains whisk passengers across the country at breathtaking speeds. Who knew your daily commute could involve an art gallery and a fortune teller?
