Japan, an island and a leading nation in East Asia. It's name mean "sun origin", and it is often called the "Land of the Rising Sun". Home to the world's largest urban metropolis, rugged wilderness, and a culture steeped in ancient tradition, Japan is a travellers dream! It is a developed country with a high standard of living and Human Development Index whose population enjoys the highest life expectancy. Tokyo, the crowded and vibrant capital, is known for its neon skyscrapers and pop culture.

Osaka is a designated city in the Kansai region of Japan. Located at the mouth of the Yodo River on Osaka Bay, it is known for its modern architecture, rip-roaring nightlife and delectable street food. Historically a merchant city, Osaka is traditionally considered the "nation's kitchen" (天下の台所 tenka no daidokoro) or the gourmet food capital of Japan that served as a center for the rice trade during the Edo period. The city has a long history and is home to many ancient shrines and temples, and to the famous Osaka Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the late sixteenth century.