Welcome to Aman Ruins Park — A Dream Spot for Railway Fans!

Hi there! Welcome to the Mascots Travel Blog. Today we’re introducing Aman Ruins Park (Aman Iseki Koen) in Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture. This place is quite simply a dream destination for railway fans and families with train-loving kids!

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The Ultimate Luxury — Watching JR and Hankyu at the Same Time

The greatest appeal of Aman Ruins Park is its incredible location. The JR Kyoto Line runs along the northern edge of the park, while the Hankyu Kyoto Line runs along the southern edge — meaning you can watch trains on both lines from inside the park at the same time.

A huge variety of trains pass through one after another — the JR Special Rapid Service, the Limited Express Haruka, the Hankyu Kyototrain Garaku, and more. It’s an impressive sight that had children everywhere shouting “A train! A train!” with pure delight.

Lying back on the wide grass lawn, gazing up at the blue sky as trains roll past — it’s a kind of simple happiness that’s hard to put into words. Packing a bento and making a picnic of it is highly recommended.

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The Starbucks Terrace — The Best Seat in the House

There’s a Starbucks Coffee right inside the park — and the terrace seating is absolutely wonderful. Warm latte in hand, watching trains glide past in front of you… it’s hard to believe a way of spending time this luxurious even exists.

The evening hours are especially magical. As the sky turns shades of orange and gold, the silhouettes of passing trains create a truly photogenic scene. Perfect for Instagram — no filter needed.

The interior is spacious and stroller-friendly, making it a relaxed and welcoming stop for parents with young children too.

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Best Train-Watching Spots & Times

If you’re visiting Aman Ruins Park for the trains, here are the best spots and times to make the most of it.

Recommended Spots:

• Northern grass area → Watch JR Kyoto Line special rapids and limited expresses pass at full speed
• Starbucks terrace → The prime spot for watching both JR and Hankyu at leisure
• Southern promenade → Get a closer look at Hankyu trains as they pass

Best Times to Visit:

• Morning → Great lighting conditions, ideal for photography
• Late afternoon (4–6pm) → Stunning silhouettes against an orange sky
• Weekdays → Fewer crowds, more space to relax

The variety of trains passing through is impressive. On the JR side, you might spot the Thunderbird or Haruka limited expresses; on the Hankyu side, special sightseeing trains like the Kyototrain Garaku occasionally make an appearance. Checking the timetable in advance and waiting for a specific train you want to see is all part of the fun.

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Play Facilities — You Could Spend All Day Here

Beyond train-watching, the park itself has plenty to offer. There are large play structures throughout, and a dedicated play area called “Bornelund Playville” — designed by the renowned play specialists Bornelund — keeps children happily entertained for hours.

The park also has an exhibition facility about the Aman Ruins, the Yayoi-period settlement that gives the park its name. The ruins date back approximately 2,000 years, and thinking about the people who lived here all that time ago gives the place a quietly magical feeling.

The car park is available but can fill up on weekends. Since both JR Takatsuki Station and Hankyu Takatsukishi Station are within walking distance, coming by train is also a great option. Come to watch trains — and travel by train to get here. There’s something wonderfully fitting about that.

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Aman Ruins — A Window Into 2,000 Years of History

The Aman Ruins are the remains of a large Yayoi-period settlement. The on-site exhibition introduces excavated pottery and everyday life from that era in an accessible and engaging way, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages. Train-watching, playing, and learning about history — truly a three-in-one destination.

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Why Families with Young Children Will Love It

Aman Ruins Park is particularly well set up for families:

• Nursing room and baby changing facilities available — perfect for families with infants
• Wide open grass areas where children can run freely
• Bornelund Playville offers hands-on, premium play equipment (paid entry)
• Starbucks is stroller-friendly — easy to pop in for a rest
• Every passing train triggers instant excitement — a natural, joyful introduction to the world of railways

It’s also a wonderful spot for a child’s very first train-watching experience.

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Basic Information

Item	Details
Location	Hatchonawate-cho, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture
Opening Hours	Open at all times (facilities have individual hours)
Admission	Free
Access	Approx. 15 min walk from JR Takatsuki Station / Approx. 10 min walk from Hankyu Takatsukishi Station
Parking	Available (paid)

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A Park for Everyone — Railway Fans, Café Lovers & Families Alike

Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, a coffee lover, or a family looking for a fun day out, Aman Ruins Park in Takatsuki has something for everyone. If you’re ever in the area, make sure to stop by — you might just find it’s exactly the kind of place you didn’t know you needed.

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One Hour at Shin-Osaka Station! The Ultimate Guide to Food, Souvenirs & Hidden Gems During Your Shinkansen Transfer

What You’ll Learn in This Article

• Must-try food spots inside Shin-Osaka Station
• Smart souvenir shopping tips — including secret timing tricks
• Hidden sightseeing spots around the station
• A must-see spot for railway fans
• A model itinerary for making the most of one hour

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Ever found yourself with an unexpected hour to spare during a Shinkansen transfer or while waiting for your next train? “I guess I’ll just wander around the station…” — sound familiar?

Well, think again! Around Shin-Osaka Station, there are plenty of spots where you can soak up the very best of Osaka — even in just one hour. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of your time at Shin-Osaka!

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Must-Try Food Spots Inside the Station

2nd Floor: Akashi-yaki at “Tako-Masa”

First on the list is “Tako-Masa” on the 2nd floor, famous for its Akashi-yaki. After trying takoyaki or okonomiyaki, make sure you experience the soft egg dumplings served with a delicate dashi broth — a dish that is uniquely Osaka in every way. The light, gentle flavors are a world apart from takoyaki. Waiting times are usually short, making it perfect even when you’re in a hurry.

Akashi-yaki is said to be the origin of takoyaki, hailing from Akashi in the Osaka region. Soft and fluffy on the outside, meltingly tender inside, these egg dumplings are dipped in a light dashi broth before eating. Refined, subtle, and utterly delicious — a must-try!

“Rikuro Ojisan” for Freshly Baked Cheesecake

For those with a sweet tooth, “Rikuro Ojisan no Mise” inside Ekimarche Shin-Osaka is an absolute must. Their freshly baked, impossibly fluffy cheesecake is a delight to eat on the spot.

If your timing is right, you might just catch the moment a fresh batch comes out of the oven — and that irresistible wobble is something you’ll want to film immediately!

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Souvenirs That Will Delight — and Smart Tips for Buying Them

“551 Horai” Pork Buns | Factor in the Queue!

When in doubt about souvenirs, “551 Horai” pork buns are the undisputed Osaka classic — and they can be purchased from just one piece, which is a lovely touch. The chilled version travels beautifully on the Shinkansen.

However — be prepared for a long queue, and always check your Shinkansen departure time before joining the line!

Pro Tip for 551 Horai: After 8 PM, the queue is significantly shorter — sometimes with no wait at all. If your schedule allows, early evening is the sweet spot for a stress-free purchase!

“Tenten” One-Bite Gyoza

Looking for something a little different? “Tenten” one-bite gyoza are a brilliant choice. Crispy on the outside, refined and delicate in flavor — they are hugely popular as a gift for anyone who loves a drink.

“Kiyasumi Sohonpo” Mitarashi Dango

Near the conventional line waiting area, “Kiyasumi Sohonpo” sells freshly grilled mitarashi dango — available to buy from just one skewer. The fragrant, slightly charred glaze and generous coating of sweet soy sauce is simply irresistible. They don’t keep long, but if you can hand them over the same day, they make a wonderfully personal gift.

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Hidden Gems Around the Station

“Nakajima Sosha Shrine” — A Peaceful Spot for Travel Prayers

If you have a little extra time, make the short 5-minute walk from the station to Nakajima Sosha Shrine.

With a history spanning over 1,300 years, this shrine sees very few tourists and has a wonderfully calm, unhurried atmosphere. Affectionately known locally as “Nakajima no Omiya-san,” it is the perfect place to say a prayer for safe travels before boarding your Shinkansen.

Nakajima Sosha Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Yodogawa Ward, Osaka City. Its origins are said to date back to the Nara Period, and it has been cherished as the local guardian shrine for centuries. Just a 5-minute walk from Shin-Osaka Station — well worth the detour.

Rooftop Garden at “Arde Shin-Osaka” — Shinkansen Watching in Peace

The rooftop garden of the station-connected “Arde Shin-Osaka” building is a hidden oasis that only those in the know tend to visit. Sit on a bench, breathe in the fresh air, and watch Shinkansen trains glide past — the perfect way to decompress between journeys. A guaranteed hit with railway-loving children too!

A Must for Railway Fans! Steam Locomotive Drive Wheel on the 1st Floor

And here’s one not to miss — a real steam locomotive drive wheel on display on the 1st floor. Take the elevator down and you’ll find this impressive piece of railway history waiting for you. It won’t take more than 5 minutes, but it’s absolutely worth it.

The steam locomotive drive wheel is a full-scale display that brings the power and history of the steam age to life. A wonderful surprise hidden inside one of Japan’s busiest stations — don’t walk past without taking a look!

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Model Itinerary: Making the Most of One Hour at Shin-Osaka

Time	Activity
0–15 min	Akashi-yaki at “Tako-Masa” on the 2nd floor
15–25 min	Freshly baked cheesecake at “Rikuro Ojisan”
25–40 min	Souvenirs from 551 Horai, Tenten & Kiyasumi
40–50 min	Steam locomotive drive wheel display (1st floor)
50–60 min	Shinkansen watching at Arde rooftop garden

※ If time allows, a quick walk to Nakajima Sosha Shrine for a travel prayer is highly recommended!

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Summary | One Hour at Shin-Osaka — More Than Enough Time to Fall in Love with Osaka

Spot	Highlights	Time Needed
Tako-Masa (2nd floor)	Akashi-yaki with dashi broth	Approx. 15 min
Rikuro Ojisan	Freshly baked cheesecake	Approx. 10 min
551 Horai / Tenten / Kiyasumi	Classic souvenirs (after 8 PM for shorter queues!)	Approx. 15 min
Steam Locomotive Display (1st floor)	A must-see for railway fans	Approx. 5 min
Arde Rooftop Garden	Shinkansen watching in peace	Approx. 10 min
Nakajima Sosha Shrine	Travel prayer (5-min walk)	Approx. 15 min

Even with just one hour, Osaka has so much to offer. Next time you find yourself with time to spare at Shin-Osaka, we hope this guide helps you make every minute count!

*Please note that shops inside the station may change over time. For the latest store information, please check the official Shin-Osaka Station website or similar sources.

Wait — Are We Here for the Skytree, or the Beer?!

The Mascots were absolutely buzzing with excitement in front of Tokyo Skytree — but look a little closer, and you’ll notice their eyes aren’t fixed on the tower at all. It’s the beer (laughs).

The Mascots being drawn to food over sightseeing — classic. The area around Tokyo Skytree is packed with restaurants and cafés, so combining sightseeing with great food is very much part of the experience.

The Tokyo Skytree area — including the shopping complex Tokyo Solamachi — is filled with restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s a destination that goes well beyond the tower itself.

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What to See at Tokyo Skytree

While you’re there, the observation decks are absolutely worth a visit. From the Tembo Deck at 350 meters and the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters, you get a full 360-degree view of Tokyo’s sprawling cityscape. On a clear day, you can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance.

The glass floor section known as the Sky Walk takes a little courage if you’re not great with heights — but the Mascots were absolutely thrilled (laughs).

Tokyo Skytree — Key Information

Item	Details
Height	634m (world’s tallest self-supporting tower)
Tembo Deck	350m above ground
Tembo Galleria	450m above ground
Access	Direct from Tobu Skytree Line “Tokyo Skytree Station”
Hours	8:00–22:00 (last entry 21:00)

A Chance Conversation — and a Tissue Incident!

While enjoying our beers, we ended up in a lovely conversation with some women sitting nearby — completely by chance.

And then it happened. One of the Mascots reached over and helped themselves to a stranger’s tissue without a second thought. “Excuse me?!” — but thankfully, it was met with laughter rather than outrage. The sheer cheek of the Mascots, somehow always getting away with it (laughs).

Unexpected encounters and moments of laughter like this are what make travel memories truly irreplaceable.

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Heading Home on the N700S — the Perfect Ending to a Great Trip

Before we knew it, the fun was over, and we were boarding the N700S Tokaido Shinkansen for the journey home. Settled into the comfortable, state-of-the-art cabin, we let the memories of the day slowly sink in.

The N700S debuted in 2020 as the latest Tokaido Shinkansen model. With power outlets at every seat and free Wi-Fi throughout, even long journeys are effortlessly comfortable.

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We Won! A Doctor Yellow Wallpaper Arrived in the Post!!

And then… we won!!

The Doctor Yellow wallpaper that arrived was stunning — a beautiful image of that iconic yellow body set against the vivid blue of the ocean. To think that the legendary train, now retired from regular service, could live on in this form right here in our hands — genuinely moved us.

Doctor Yellow has long been known as the “Lucky Yellow Shinkansen” — the train that brings happiness to anyone who spots it. Back when it was still in regular service, its schedule was kept completely secret. Catching a glimpse of it was a matter of pure luck, and social media would light up every time someone managed it. Since the end of its regular service in 2024, the chance of seeing it in motion has dropped to virtually zero.

That’s exactly why having it preserved in the form of a wallpaper feels all the more special. For railway fans, Doctor Yellow will always hold a place apart — and the fact that its merchandise and commemorative items are still so widely loved is proof of just how deeply it touched people’s hearts. We’d like to share a little of that happiness with all of you. May it bring good things your way too!

Doctor Yellow is a specialized inspection vehicle used to check the tracks and electrical systems of the Shinkansen network. It ended its regular service in 2024, but it continues to be cherished by fans through merchandise and commemorative goods.

Summary: A Trip Packed with Fun, Right to the Very Last Moment

Moment	Highlight
Beer at Skytree	The Mascots followed their instincts — and loved it (laughs)
Chat with fellow visitors	The tissue incident resolved in laughter!
Home on the N700S	A comfortable, modern send-off
Doctor Yellow wallpaper win	Sharing the luck with everyone!

From start to finish, this trip was packed with laughter and unforgettable moments. The Doctor Yellow wallpaper giveaway is held irregularly on the “Tetsu-oshi!” website — definitely worth keeping an eye on!

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Gion Festival Has More to Offer Than the Main Boulevard!

Gion Festival is one of Kyoto’s most iconic summer traditions. This time, instead of sticking to the main street, we discovered a whole new way to enjoy the festival — wandering through Kyoto’s narrow back alleys to find the floats and mountain floats tucked away in quieter corners of the city.

Arare Tenjin-yama: A Place That Brought Back Student Memories

Our first stop was Arare Tenjin-yama.

This float is famous for its protective power against fire, and it also happened to be a place I visited during my student days. Revisiting it brought a wave of nostalgia — and yet, looking at it with fresh eyes, I noticed new details I’d never seen before. It reminded me just how deep the history of Gion Festival really runs.

About Arare Tenjinyama: One of the iconic floats of Gion Matsuri, this float is said to have protected the city from a devastating fire in 1582 (the 10th year of the Tensho era). Its chimaki (sacred rice dumplings) are popular as fire-prevention charms and sell out quickly each year.

A New Way to Enjoy Gion Festival — Why the Back Alleys Are Worth Exploring

Here’s what makes wandering the side streets such a special experience:

• Fewer crowds than the main boulevard — you can take your time and look properly
• A warmer, more intimate atmosphere with locals nearby
• Each float and mountain float has its own unique history and story to discover
• The contrast between the traditional Kyoto townhouses and the floats makes for stunning photos

The back alleys of Gion Festival are a hidden gem — and one we’d highly recommend adding to your itinerary.

Kikusui-hoko: Another Highlight Along the Way

Next, we stopped by Kikusui-hoko. Unlike the famous floats lining the main street, the floats and mountain floats tucked into the side streets have a quietly different atmosphere.

Walking these narrow lanes, you can feel the living culture of the festival — lovingly preserved and carried forward by the local community, generation after generation.

Kikusui-hoko is one of the floats in the Gion Festival’s Sakimatsuri (front festival). It takes its name from the Noh play “Kiku Jido” and is said to grant the blessing of longevity. Original Kikusui-hoko tea and sweets are also sold on the float itself.

Things to Know Before Visiting Gion Festival

Gion Festival runs throughout the entire month of July, from the 1st to the 31st. The highlight events are the Sakimatsuri yamahoko procession on July 17th and the Atomatsuri procession on July 24th — but the Yoiyama evenings (the nights before the processions) are also incredibly lively, with food stalls and float displays filling the streets.

Tips for your visit:

• Wearing a yukata (summer kimono) adds to the atmosphere and is highly recommended
• If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, weekday mornings are your best bet
• Some floats offer paid boarding experiences — well worth trying if you get the chance
• Chimaki (protective rice dumpling charms) sold at each float make wonderful souvenirs

On the Way Home — A Chance Encounter with the Kyototrain!

After finishing our stroll, we were heading home when we stumbled upon the Kyototrain — and somehow managed to get on board!

This was a train I’d always wanted to ride. The beautiful Japanese-inspired interior design, evoking the changing seasons throughout the carriages, was everything I’d hoped for. Even the Mascots were unusually quiet, clearly soaking in the atmosphere (laughs).

Each carriage features a different interpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics — from a karesansui dry garden space to wooden bench seating reminiscent of a traditional engawa veranda. The BGM playing softly through the carriages was equally Japanese in feel, making the whole journey feel like an extension of Kyoto itself.

Stumbling onto the Kyototrain at exactly the right moment felt like the perfect reward to round off the day. With the lingering warmth of Gion Festival still in our hearts, we made our way gently back to Osaka. Next time, I’d love to plan the trip around the train schedule so we can enjoy the full experience from start to finish.

The Kyototrain is a sightseeing train operated by Hankyu Railway. Themed around traditional Japanese aesthetics, each carriage features a different seasonal landscape. It runs mainly on weekends and public holidays between Osaka-Umeda and Kyoto-Kawaramachi. Check the schedule in advance before your visit.

Recommended Itinerary: Gion Festival + Kyototrain

Time	Activity
Morning	Arrive in Kyoto, begin back-alley festival stroll
Late morning	Visit Arare Tenjin-yama, Kikusui-hoko and more
Midday	Lunch at a Kyoto restaurant
Afternoon	Continue exploring the side-street floats
Evening	Board the Kyototrain from Hankyu and head back to Osaka

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Summary: Gion Festival Back Alleys + Kyototrain — The Perfect Kyoto Summer Combination

Highlight	What Made It Special
Arare Tenjin-yama	Fire-protection charm, nostalgic memories from student days
Kikusui-hoko	Longevity blessing, quiet side-street atmosphere
Kyoto back alleys	A hidden, unhurried way to experience Gion Festival
Kyototrain	Japanese-inspired interior, soaking in the Kyoto afterglow

Gion Festival takes place every July. The Yoiyama evenings and yamahoko processions are especially crowded, so book your accommodation well in advance!

New Year’s Visit to Ohatsu Tenjin & Kabuki at Minami-za — Experiencing the Real Thing in 2026

A New Year’s Visit to Ohatsu Tenjin — Just Steps from Higashi-Umeda Station

For the first shrine visit of 2026, we headed to Ohatsu Tenjin (Tsuyunoten Shrine) — just a short walk from Higashi-Umeda Station.

Ohatsu Tenjin — formally known as Tsuyunoten Shrine — has a history stretching back approximately 1,300 years. It is famous as the setting of Chikamatsu Monzaemon’s bunraku puppet play “Sonezaki Shinju” (The Love Suicides at Sonezaki), and is also celebrated as a powerful spot for love and marriage blessings.

In the grounds, a statue of Ohatsu and Tokubei — the star-crossed lovers at the heart of Sonezaki Shinju — stands to welcome visitors. The shrine grounds, buzzing with New Year’s worshippers, feel like a quiet sanctuary appearing suddenly in the middle of a busy business district. It’s a strangely magical space that makes you forget the noise of the city entirely.

Ohatsu Tenjin — Basic Information

Item	Details
Official Name	Tsuyunoten Shrine
Location	2-chome, Sonezaki, Kita-ku, Osaka
Access	Approx. 5 min walk from Higashi-Umeda Station
Blessings	Love, marriage, relationships

The Inspiration — a Film That Changed Everything

The spark for this whole trip was a 2025 film called “Kokuho” (National Treasure), which we finally got around to watching at the end of the year. It moved us deeply — and gave us our goal for 2026: “Make this the year we experience things of real, lasting value.”

The film featured “Sonezaki Shinju” — and the moment we saw it, we knew we had to see it performed live. A quick search turned up a production at Kyoto’s Minami-za theatre, and we booked tickets on the spot.

All Set for Minami-za — First Kabuki in 10 Years

Our last kabuki experience was at the Shinshu Kabuki in Asakusa, Tokyo — a full decade ago. And this would be our first kabuki in the Kansai region, so we made sure to prepare thoroughly. We watched an old film version of Sonezaki Shinju beforehand to make sure we had the story firmly in mind before heading to the theatre.

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Walking to Minami-za — Shijo Kawaramachi Observations

On the way to Minami-za, we walked through Shijo Kawaramachi and noticed couples lined up at regular intervals along the street. A strangely poetic contrast — on our way to see a story of tragic love, surrounded by very much alive and happy modern couples.

Did you know there’s a building called Kita-za (North Theatre) on the opposite bank from Minami-za (South Theatre)? This area was once lined with numerous theatres and playhouses, and the history embedded in these streets is palpable.

Arriving at Minami-za — Exploring Before the Curtain Rises

Surprise — Minami-za Is a Western-Style Building!

We’d imagined tatami floors and a traditional Japanese interior — but the real Minami-za turned out to be full of Western architectural elements. Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the building is a sight worth exploring inside and out. Even just wandering around before the performance starts is enjoyable in its own right.

Comfortable Seating — Even for Long Performances

Every seat in the house has a chair, and cushions are also provided. The thoughtful touches throughout make it easy to stay comfortable even during long performances, and the environment is welcoming for everyone from young first-timers to older visitors. No experience with kabuki necessary — you’ll be at ease from the moment you arrive.

The performance we saw, “Sonezaki Shinju,” tells the story of Tokubei, an Osaka merchant, and his lover Ohatsu — a tale of ill-fated romance. Using the earphone guide with its modern-language translation makes it easy to follow the story even for first-time kabuki-goers. We’d strongly recommend doing some preparation beforehand — watching a film version or reading a summary really does deepen the experience.

Wait — What About the Trains? Don’t Worry, We Rode Plenty!

True to our railway travel blog roots, we made sure to get our train fix too. For the journey home, we took the Hankyu Kyoto Line from Kawaramachi back to Umeda. Boarding at Shijo-Kawaramachi Station, we watched the Kyoto streetscape drift past the window as we made our way back to Osaka. The elegant maroon-colored Hankyu carriages made for the perfect close to a Kyoto day.

The Hankyu Kyoto Line connects Osaka-Umeda and Kyoto-Kawaramachi. The limited express takes approximately 43 minutes — fast and convenient. The Hankyu maroon color is one of the most iconic liveries in Japanese railways.

Summary: A Journey in Search of Real, Lasting Value

Highlight	What Made It Special
Ohatsu Tenjin	The setting of Sonezaki Shinju — a love shrine with 1,300 years of history
Minami-za	An Important Cultural Property theatre with comfortable seating
Shijo Kawaramachi	Historic streets, the site of Kita-za, modern romance on display
Hankyu Kyoto Line	Elegant maroon carriages — the perfect end to a Kyoto trip

Using a film or a piece of literature as the starting point for a trip is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. The quest to experience things of real, lasting value — it continues through 2026!