Osaka city, which is located in Kinki district (western part of Japan) and right middle of Osaka prefecture, had developed as a port and bay city related to diplomacy since old time, In early modern time, Osaka castle was built and the castle town was settled. After this, in Edo era, Osaka was developed more than Edo (currently Tokyo) as a core city of economic, finance, commerce and transportation. Osaka was called "Kitchen in the nation" ,because many different foods were sent to Osaka from all over Japan. As a result, rich citizen culture was raised. Finally, Osaka grew as an industrial city. Today, our city takes a big role in the Hanshin Industrial Zone. Commercial operation is very active and the wholesale district has developed. The financial district was established as well as public government office and statutory board. Osaka is the center of the administration not only for the Kinki district but also for the western part of Japan. Numerous rivers run through the area. Nowadays, public and private sectors have joined together and are working on urban planning which exploits a "water Metropolis"

We are looking forward to seeing "potential leaders of coming generations" in November 2010, here in Osaka, which is progressing for a bright future.