From ancient times, Osaka has prospered as an important hub of transportation and developed as a major center of economic and cultural life. For example, Shitennoji Temple and Naniwa Palace were built here during the sixth and seventh centuries respectively. The main engine driving Osaka's development in each era has always been the resourcefulness of the local people. Particularly in the early modern period, Osaka produced a slew of talented individuals who had a profound influence on the subsequent development of Japan: names such as Sen no Rikyu, Ihara Saikaku, Chikamatsu Monzaemon, Ogata Koan, etc. It was this rich cultural milieu that nurtured and matured traditional performing arts such as Kamigata Kabuki and Bunraku, and the rich gourmet culture known as kuidaore, which continue to symbolize Osaka today.

Moreover, a huge variety of cultural facilities and forms are concentrated in Osaka Prefecture, including many traditional Japanese cultural arts as well as more modern and imported genres like orchestral and jazz music, musical theater, etc.

A Bunraku performance (supplied by the National Bunraku Theater)
A Bunraku performance
(supplied by the National Bunraku Theater)
The Tenjin Matsuri
The Tenjin Matsuri