Osaka is known for having some of Japan's best attractions like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Castle. To top that off, the city is also home to a tantalising array of halal Japanese cuisine and the bustling food mecca of Dotonbori ?
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If you're heading to Osaka and looking for a respite from all the tourist sights and attraction, we know just the perfect place - Hirakata T-Site!
P.S. Check out our budget Muslim-friendly itinerary to Osaka and Nara under RM2500!
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Located about 30 minutes by train from Osaka's main shopping district of Shinsaibashi, here's where you can find THIS super Instagrammable wall of books on the 5th floor of TSUTAYA bookstore. TSUTAYA is one of the biggest book and video chains in Japan and their stores are known to be tastefully decorated. With floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with books, their outlet at Hirakata T-Site is heaven for book lovers ?
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But even if you're not a bibliophile, you'll be enchanted by this majestic backdrop which feels although you've stepped into a movie scene. Of course, you wouldn't want to resist snapping some gorgeous photos for the 'gram! Besides the huge bookshelf itself, the stairwell makes a perfect photo spot too ? Do note that the wall is separated into two areas and one of the areas might be used for a pop-up event from time to time.
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The wall of books might be a sight to behold but the open and spacious layout of the bookstore deserves credit too. With ample natural light shining through the glass walls, unwinding here with your favourite book in hand sounds like a good idea. The best part is, you don't have to purchase anything from the bookstore or cafe and you can stay for as long as you want!
P.S. If you love books, you'd love these 11 stunning bookstores and libraries around the world!
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Apart from books, TSUTAYA also sells a range of DVDs, CDs and vinyl records which are rare these days. You can even sit and listen to one of these collections! The Hirakata T-Site complex is also worth exploring, with plenty of unique shops and cafes. What's great about Hirakata T-Site is that it's in between Osaka and Kyoto so you can make a day trip here from both cities ?
Heading to Osaka soon? Make sure you add this cool hangout spot into your must-visit list!
#HHWT Tip: If you're feeling hungry, do check out these halal restaurants in Osaka!
Opening hours: Open daily; 7AM-11PM
Address: 1 2-2, Okahigashicho, Hirakata, Osaka 573-0032, Japan (opposite Hirakatashi station)
Directions:
From Osaka: Take the Keihan Main Line from Yodoyabashi station and alight at Hirakatashi station.
From Kyoto: Take the Kintetsu Line from Kyoto station and transfer to the Keihan Main Line at Tambabashi station. Then, alight at Hirakatashi station.
Contact: +81 72-861-5700