Lesson 7: Osaka Castle and street food

ESL Course: The Johnsons Visit Japan

Practice your English with the Johnson family as they explore Japan. This is lesson 7 of a 10 lesson course.

PDF: Osaka Castle and street food

Warm-up

  1. Where do you think the family should go in Osaka? (I think they should go to…)
  2. Do you think the Johnson's will enjoy the food in Osaka? (Yes. I think they will like…)
  3. How can they get around the city? (They can…)

Vocabulary Match

castle -   - fortress
nightlife -   - octopus balls
takoyaki -   - entertainment
starving -   - very hungry

Vocabulary Match 2

billboards -   - fluorescent
neon -   - guide
navigate -   - advertisements
impatient -   - restless

Story

The Johnson family's first trip to Japan included a visit to Osaka. They headed to Osaka Castle, one of the most famous castles in Japan. The castle's beauty and history left them in awe.

Next, they explored the Dotonbori district, famous for its street food and nightlife. They sampled some delicious takoyaki and okonomiyaki for dinner. Sarah and Sam were amazed by the colorful billboards and neon lights in the area. The family used their smartphones to navigate the busy streets of the city. They had a fantastic time, but Mrs. Johnson was feeling sore from all the walking.

Quiz

  1. What is the Dotonbori district famous for?
  2. What were the children amazed by?

Conversation

Mrs. Johnson: Oh, my poor feet. We've been walking all day!
Mr. Johnson: You're right. Let's sit down over there by the big crab sign.
Mrs. Johnson: Where are we going next? Dotonbori? Is it far?
Mr. Johnson: Hang on, I'll check on my phone. "Hey phone. Directions to Dotonbori."
Mrs. Johnson: Well? What does it say? I'm starving and the kids are getting impatient.
Mr. Johnson: Um.. it says we're already in Dotonbori. This is it, we're already here!

Discussion

  1. What street food would you like to try in Dotonbori?
  2. What are your top 6 must-visit attractions in Osaka?
  3. Do you use your smartphone for directions? How else can a smartphone help tourists?
  4. What do you like to do when your feet are sore?

Vocabulary Answers 1

castle → fortress
nightlife → entertainment
takoyaki → octopus balls
starving → very hungry

Vocabulary Answers 2

billboards → advertisements
neon → fluorescent
navigate → guide
impatient → restless

Quiz Answers (examples)

  1. It's famous for its street food and nightlife.
  2. They were amazed by the colorful billboards and neon lights in the area.

Next Lesson

The Johnsons Visit Japan - Lesson 8

Lesson List

  1. The family arrives in Japan
  2. First day in Tokyo
  3. The Johnsons head to Kyoto
  4. A day of exploration in Kyoto
  5. A day trip to Hiroshima
  6. Enjoying the sights in Kobe
  7. Osaka Castle and street food
  8. A relaxing day at the onsen
  9. Two exciting days in Tokyo
  10. The family's last day in Japan

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