Osaka is the most populous city in west Japan. With its bustling entertainment quarters of "Kita (North)" and "Minami (South)", historic attractions of Osaka Castle and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and amusement centers Universal Studios and Tsutenkaku, Osaka is the all-round destination. Located at the center of Japan, fresh produce from all corners of the country were brought into the city. This is why Osaka is called " Kitchen Matched by None" from the Edo era. A rich culinary culture, ranging from authentic foods of shabu shabu and blowfish to fast food dishes takoyaki and okonomiyaki, was originated here. The Kansai International Airport serves as the hub in Kansai area for visitors from overseas. From Osaka city, day trips to nearby attractions in Kyoto, Nara and Kobe can be made easily using extensive transportation links.