At Jiyuken in Namba, Osaka, it was my first time seeing a raw egg placed directly on top of curry rice. At first, I was actually a little hesitant to eat it and wondered, “Does raw egg really taste good with curry?”
But since I was already there, I worked up the courage to try a small bite! After mixing the raw egg into the curry rice, the texture became smoother, and the egg flavor mellowed out the curry quite a bit. It was surprisingly easy to eat.
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan, nicknamed “USJ”, is a large-scale theme park with entertainment for everyone, both children and adults alike. The park is separated into different areas, each with a different theme from popular titles across the world.
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) was already packed with people as soon as it opened. Almost everyone headed toward the popular Mario area in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and the Harry Potter area, and the park was really lively!
Although almost every popular attraction had a wait of at least 2 hours, and just thinking about the wait was a little exhausting, it still felt well worth it after actually going on the rides. From waiting in line to finally getting on the attraction, the whole experience was filled with anticipation, and afterward, I felt it was worth the wait.
Hozenji Meoto Zenzai
Nestled beside the Mizukake Fudoson in the charming Hozenji Yokocho, this sweet shop was founded in 1883 (Meiji 16). The shop’s specialty, "Meoto Zenzai," served in two separate bowls, is a symbol of good fortune for couples, believed to strengthen their bond and bring harmony. It is also said that two people drawn to each other who share this dessert will find their romance fulfilled. Traditionally, each person eats from two bowls.
At Hozenji in Osaka, I came specifically to try the famous “Meoto Zenzai.” Two bowls of piping-hot sweet red bean soup with rice dumplings were brought to the table, and just looking at them felt so comforting. The soup was sweet, and the red beans were very soft!
After finishing the hot red bean soup with rice dumplings, I felt warm all over. When visiting Hozenji, I highly recommend stopping by for some Meoto Zenzai and experiencing this traditional dessert with a story behind it!
Osaka Castle Park
Nationally designated special historical site, Osaka Castle Ruin, and the surrounding area were renovated into an urban park. 13 buildings of important cultural properties including Osaka Castle Main Tower, watchtowers and gates dot the vast 261-acre premises.
We took a walk around Osaka Castle Park and had really been looking forward to seeing the cherry blossoms. Unfortunately, they hadn't bloomed yet when we visited, but we unexpectedly came across plum blossoms in full bloom, which was a different kind of pleasant surprise!
The plum blossoms dotted the branches, and they looked especially beautiful against the backdrop of Osaka Castle. Without the excitement of the cherry blossoms, it felt more peaceful and secluded instead. As we walked and admired the plum blossoms, we could occasionally look up and see Osaka Castle's main tower, a truly iconic Osaka view.
It was a little disappointing that we didn't get to see the cherry blossoms this time, but seeing the plum blossoms was also well worth it.
