Takoyaki making to kimono sessions: Fun things to try in Osaka, Kyoto

OSAKA, Japan – Osaka and Kyoto are two popular sightseeing spots in Japan’s Kansai region.

These two cities have plenty to offer in terms of food, shopping and culture. But if you’re looking for a more interactive experience, Osaka and Kyoto have a lot of them as well.

Just recently, ABS-CBN News and selected members of the media visited attractions that encourage interaction and creativity as part of a tour organized by the Japanese hotel chain Karaksa Hotels.

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Here are some of them:

TAKOYAKI MAKING

A video posted by @karenmflores on Sep 29, 2016 at 11:41pm PDT

Takoyaki or octopus balls is one of the dishes that represent Osaka. In the tourist hotspot Dotonbori, you can make your own takoyaki at the Konamon Museum. It’s quite hard to miss – just look for the establishment with the giant red octopus.

Can’t get enough of takoyaki? At the third floor of the Konamon Museum, you can create takoyaki wax food samples that you can bring home.

OWL CAFÉ

Japan is home to different kinds of animal cafes, from cats and dogs to rabbits, and even owls.

If you happen to be near Namba station in Osaka, stop by Lucky Owl Café to mingle with some feathered friends. An admission fee is required, inclusive of a drink.

The place is generally peaceful – talking loudly is discouraged here as it causes stress to the owls. Flash photography is not allowed, and the birds can only be touched a certain way – lightly on the beak, using the back of your finger.

WAGASHI CLASS

Ever seen those Japanese sweets that are too beautiful to eat? Called wagashi, these confections remain popular in tradition-steeped Kyoto.

Just a stone’s throw away from Toyokuni Shrine is Kanshundo, where you can make some wagashi, each reflecting nature and the seasons.

At the end of the class, you can eat your wagashi with Kanshundo’s green tea or bring them home in cute little boxes.

KIMONO SESSION

When in Kyoto, do as many other tourists do – rent a kimono and stroll around the city’s temples and shrines.

Just two minutes from subway Gojo station is Yumeyakata, an affordable one-stop shop for kimono, the summer garment yukata and accessories for males and females, both young and old. It is quite used to accommodating tourists, and even has English- and Chinese-speaking staff.

You can also have your hair and makeup done here, and even have a souvenir photo.