Sex workers in Osaka. 5,6 years ago, a friend took me thru a small, singular neighborhood in Osaka, Japan. Rumored to be controlled by Yakuza, it was an area for sex. The ground floor of the buildings were open to the street, and the 'girl' was sitting, almost enthroned, on a chair or platform surrounded by flowers and cushions. I guess the protocol was to 'shop' the street, and enter the one that appealed to you. We did not tarry, despite my fascination, because my Japanese friend was female, w/ her hair tucked up, and she felt a need to keep moving. She had explained that the city wanted to raze the area as some kind of urban renewal. I wanted to get some Japanese friends to talk to some locals, and find a way to document this unique place, but that never happened. Does anyone know of this? And what eventually happened?
posted by ebesan
on Mar 6, 2012 -
15 answers
Osaka-filter Massage/Spa Package-filter. I like to buy a lady friend a good women oriented massage package she could use to relax massively while in Osaka. Any tips on how to find massage/spa resorts that offer this sort of deal? One difficulty I prefer to arrange/reserve/buy it while overseas.
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posted by Bodrik
on Feb 11, 2012 -
3 answers
I just saw
this video about karakuri (Japanese clockwork automatons) and was amazed. The guy is located in Osaka, but there is no information about where he works or whether his studio is open to the public. Coincidentally I will be in Osaka next week. Where can I see some karakuri? Does anyone know of any exhibitions of them, or anywhere else I could see them?
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posted by lollusc
on Jul 16, 2011 -
9 answers
I'm in Osaka, Japan, at a conference at the Rihga Royal NCB. I need to print off a poster this afternoon. Is there a Kinko's-like print shop nearby I could use?
posted by olinerd
on Jun 5, 2011 -
5 answers
What is the equivalent to Craigslist in Japan, perhaps the Osaka area specifically?
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posted by krilli
on May 27, 2011 -
9 answers
Are there any cheaper alternatives to the Japan Rail Pass? For two adults traveling mainly around Tokyo, as well as a few days in Osaka and one day trip to Nara, for a total of 10 days.
*Bonus question - what are the best places in these cities to see contemporary Japanese art?
posted by kickingtheground
on Mar 3, 2011 -
20 answers
JapanFilter: My friend is going to be in Osaka for a MONTH alone on business. She knows no one there, speaks very little Japanese, and will be all in all pretty bored. What are cool things she can do? Where are places she can hang out? Are there English websites she can read for ideas?
posted by aliceinreality
on Oct 22, 2010 -
18 answers
Where can I buy a kiseru in the Osaka area tomorrow? (A kiseru is a traditional Japanese smoking pipe.)
I have looked at all kinds of shops and haven't found any. I'd rather not order online. Some people back home want them as souvenirs.
I am staying in Osaka, so I am within easy range of Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, etc.
posted by twblalock
on Aug 10, 2009 -
8 answers
Taught English in Japan (Kyoto) for 2 years. I haven't been back for a while. Family wedding in Osaka. Will be there all May.
What did I miss the first time around?
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posted by any portmanteau in a storm
on Mar 11, 2008 -
11 answers
