Shitennoji Temple
A large complex of Shitenno-ji temples is situated in the heart of Osaka. Shitenno-ji Temple was originally built in 593 by famous Prince Shotoku. Although temple buildings were burned down several times, you will see a stately gate, a beautiful pagoda and magnificent temple buildings which reflect the original 6th century design.
Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan. In Edo period (17-19th centuries), various essential goods from all over Japan were distributed to Osaka, which led to term Osaka as "Nation's kitchen". People in Osaka love eating. The city fascinates travelers with its dazzling choice of gourmet restaurants from inexpensive local specialties to Michelin-star dining.
Sample Itinerary (8-hour tour)
Meet your guide and head to Osaka Castle, which was originally established in the 16th century by one of the greatest samurai, Hideyoshi Toyotomi. Destroyed by fires many times, the present donjon was restored in 1931. From the top of eight-story castle, a majestic view of Osaka city can be enjoyed. Also, a tea room covered with gold leaf can be seen here, representing Hideyoshi's prosperity and wealth.
Move by subway/train to visit Kuromon market. With the length of 600 meters, the market is lined with more than 170 shops that specialize in fresh seafood, meat, vegetables, and fruits from all over Japan. Enjoy tasting various kinds of food such as grilled squid, fresh sashimi, croquette, and more. Your guide will be pleased to assist you in communicating with shop staff.
Walk to Dotonbori district crammed with a number of restaurants and amusement facilities (karaoke bars, pachinko parlors etc.), located alongside Dotonbori canal. If you are foodie, try Takoyaki (bite-sized ball of dough with Octopus in it), Osaka's iconic snack food. There are a number of Takoyaki stands along Dotonbori street.
Neon lights and big signs are symbol of the lively neighborhood. Also, you will be escorted to Hozen-ji alley with old-style Japanese bars and a local small temple.
For lunch, try one of the Osaka's specialties such as Okonomiyaki grilled on a hot plate, Kushikatsu (skewered deep-fried meat, seafood and vegetables), or Udon noodles which are the most popular delicacies loved by locals. Or, if you prefer high-end restaurants, Kobe beef Teppanyaki, "Fugu" blowfish cuisine (autumn to spring) can be recommended.
After lunch, take subway to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is the longest shopping arcade in Japan with the length of 2.6 km from south to north. Your guide will escort you to a part of this street. Enjoy strolling the local street filled with a variety of shops such as groceries, clothes, books, etc.
Visit the Floating Garden Observatory. The platform of this observatory is a bridge connecting the two towers of Umeda Sky Building, whose roof is a doughnut shape that provides an unobstructed 360-degree view. The architecture is very unique just like floating in the air.
At the end of the tour, you will be escorted to "Depachika", Gourmet Food Hall, in the department store. In Japan, basement floor of the department store is a gastronomic paradise! In particular, Depachika in Osaka is famous for a great selection of Osakan local food, from "Takoyaki", octopus ball, to sophisticated confectionary. Your guide will be pleased to assist you to communicate with shop staff.
*As for lunch, the guide will recommend a nice restaurant depending on what you feel like eating this day.
Options
Sakai
Sakai is a city renowned for swordsmith, nowadays, professional Japanese knife forging. Most of the professional knives in Japan have been made in Sakai. Visit an established Tanrenjo, a workshop that forges Japanese swords and knives. A master in Tanrenjo will show you the traditional way of forging a kitchen knife. After observing forging, you can visit the shop with a variety of knives. (subject to availability) Please note that it takes about 30 min. or more from central Osaka to Sakai. So, if you would like to visit Sakai, about 2-3 hours will be spent for this.
Price for this sample itinerary
(price per group)
| 2 persons | 3 persons | 4 persons | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 hours | 68,000 yen | 71,000 yen | 74,000 yen |
(10% consumption tax included)
Including: Nationally-licensed English-speaking tour guide, admission fees, public transportations, service charge and consumption tax.
Not Including: Lunch fee
Note:
- Our private tours can be customized to your interests and preferences. Let us know any place you wish to visit. If you would like to include one of the sites among above-mentioned "Options", please let us know.
- The price is for the sample itinerary above. Price may be subject to change depending on the options you choose.
- Day trips from other cities can be arranged upon request. (ex. From Kyoto, Nara, additional 10,000 yen per group will be charged as it takes 2 hours for round trip, which makes 10-hour tour. For other cities, please contact us.)
- Private car can be arranged for extra fee.
- Tours can be arranged for a larger group. We will recommend appropriate transportation taking your group size into consideration.
Payment
Please pay by credit card. You will receive an E-mail with an URL where payment can be made online. The page is protected by Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to ensure the safety of your credit card information. We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diners, and JCB.
Request for a Private Tour
Why tour with us?
- Customized Private Tour
We will customize your own tour depending on your interests and preferences. Since all tours are private tours, you can enjoy your tour thoroughly at your pace.
- Nationally-Licensed Guides
Our locally-based guides who are knowledgeable, friendly and flexible ensure pleasant, comfortable and worry-free tours.
- Authentic Experiences
Our travel consultants from all over Japan with network and knowledge - not just highlights but also off the beaten paths - work passionately to enrich your experiences.
Private Tours in other destinations
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We can also arrange privately-guided tours in other destinations throughout Japan. Your tours can be tailored to your specific interests such as culture, food, and nature.
