Fourth Day was quite relaxed. We only went to 3 places on this day.
Minoo Park
Osaka was pretty relaxing in general. if I have one place I would like to visit again, it would be Minoo Park. Located at the outskirts of Osaka, Minoo Park is a natural park with scenic beauty featuring Cedars and Japanese Red Maple (Momiji). A slow walk on the main paved trail towards the waterfall was my favorite moment as I enjoyed THE fresh air while APPRECIATING the views of the mountains, trees and the river. After 3 kilometers of walking, the trail leads to the park’s main natural attraction, the Minoo Waterfall.
Church of the Light (Ibaraki Kasugaoka Church)
After the refreshing daytrip to the Minoo Park, we went to one of our “MUST-SEE” architecture of osaka. We headed to Ibaraki to see one of our favorite Japanese architect’s work: the Church of the Light by Tadao Ando.
The Church of the Light, categorized as a Protestant church, is located in a residential neighborhood in Ibaraki, Osaka, a 10-minute bus ride from JR Ibaraki bus stop.
Tadao Ando, a self-taught architect, is known for his style of using in-situ concretes. Church of Light is one of his famous works where in the space is defined by light. Unlike conventional churches, the cross behind the altar in the main chapel is illustrated by means of natural light illuminating from the cross shaped glass opening in the main wall. This well calculated play of light, concrete walls and void spaces with no other components, enhanced the sacredness of the church.
It was a delightful moment for us as we only used see the famous cross and concrete walls from the photos during lectures back in college. There was so much character in this architecture; the peacefulness, the silence and the divineness of the church somehow gave a relaxing feel, not only physically but also spiritually.
I wish we could’ve stayed longer but the visiting time is only from 1:30PM to 4:00PM.
If you are planning to visit the church, you need a reservation through: http://ibaraki-kasugaoka-church.jp/e-forvisitors.html
Minami
After a day of relaxation, we stored enough energy to go to one of the busiest places in Osaka. Just in time for all the neon signage, window shopping and dinner.
Minami is one of Osaka’s two major city centers, where it is most famous for nightlife entertainment, food and shopping.
Dotonbori is one of the most popular spot for tourists. It is well known for its Glico neon signage (the running man) with other signage that brightens up the night sky and for dining!
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Also in Minami, is the Shinsaibashi where you can find a shopping arcade! A premier shopping area in Osaka where it is filled with fashion stores and if you’re good enough you can find many bargain here.
Photos taken: February 2015
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I have always wanted to visit Japan
Go and visit! Japan is our favorite so far!