Ask the crew: what Kidipop Li loves about Osaka

This month, we chatted with Kidipop Li, a Flight Purser with Cathay Pacific about his favourite city: Osaka. He shares what he found most enjoyable to do, see and eat during a recent excursion there. 

“My trip to Osaka last year was a solo one. I decided not to plan anything. Instead, I would wake up each morning and think, ‘What should I do today?’ I just went with the flow, and it was very relaxing. We often forget that’s the point of travel.” 

Must-do

There are some great onsen spots around Osaka. Just south of the city, near the mountains, is Kyukamura Kishu Kada , an open-air onsen with perfect sea views. I also recommend visiting Saki-no-Yu Onsen , an affordable hot spring close to the ocean – so close that you can feel the sea spray as you bathe.  

I also spent a lot of time walking around Osaka’s parks. It was red leaf season, and so the timing couldn’t have been better. I really liked Expo ’70 Commemorative Park opposite the Expocity shopping mall. 

Must-eat  

I loved the dipping ramen at Tsukemen Yondaime-Misawa in downtown Osaka. You start by adding the dry noodles to the soup, then if you want more flavour, you can add black pepper, lime and chopped onion. You’re also given a hot stone, which you can put in your soup to keep it warm. 

Meanwhile, in Kyoto – which is just a short train ride from Osaka – I discovered a tonkatsu (pork cutlet) restaurant called Katsukura Shijo Higashinotoin . The entrance is down a narrow alley, and the interior is decorated with foliage, so you feel as if you’re in a secret garden. You’re seated at a large communal table, and there are instructions on how to season your dish to your liking. The place is so welcoming that even though I went alone, I felt in good company.   

Must-pack

I like to walk so I usually pack light. A cross-body bag is perfect for carrying my travel essentials.