How to Plan Your Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Hozenji Yokocho Food Walking Tour in Osaka

If you are planning a trip to Osaka, you won’t want to miss the Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, and Hozenji Yokocho Food Walking Tour. This tour will allow you to have a truly authentic experience of the local cuisine, culture, and landmarks of Osaka. In this guide, we will show you how to plan your tour, what to expect, what is included, and more.

Overview of the Tour

This walking tour is a 2.5-hour gastronomic adventure through the streets of Osaka. You will have the opportunity to taste some of the most famous local specialties, such as Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and Kushikatsu. The tour will take you through the bustling streets of Dotonbori, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, neon lights, and famous landmarks, such as the Glico Running Man.

You will also get to explore the vibrant Kuromon Market, where you can experience the freshest seafood, fruits, and vegetables that Osaka has to offer. The tour will end in the charming alleyways of Hozenji Yokocho, where you can find a hidden gem of a temple and a more tranquil atmosphere.

What’s Included

The food walking tour includes several snacks and two alcoholic beverages. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will share interesting facts about the history, culture, and food of Osaka. All applicable taxes and fees are also included in the ticket price.

Meeting and Pickup

You have two options for meeting up with the tour guide. You can head directly to the meeting point, which is located at 1 Chome-9 Dotonbori Chuo Ward, Osaka 542-0071 Japan. Alternatively, you can request pickup, which is available at selected hotels in Osaka or at the Osaka Information Center (Nankai Namba Station).

What to Expect

You can expect to walk around 1.5 kilometers during the tour, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable footwear. The tour is conducted in English, and the tour guide will provide a good mix of historical and cultural insights relevant to the places visited.

Additional Information

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is suitable for most travelers with no serious medical conditions. The ticket is priced per person, and the tour is conducted in small groups of up to 12 travelers. The tour operator may cancel the tour in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. However, in such cases, you will receive a full refund.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

You can easily book the Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Hozenji Yokocho Food Walking Tour on Viator.com. The booking process is straightforward, and you can pay securely with a credit card. You will receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details, including the meeting point and time.

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance of the tour start time to receive a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, a partial refund may be available, but this will be subject to the tour operator’s discretion.

Conclusion

The Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Hozenji Yokocho Food Walking Tour is an excellent way to experience the best of Osaka’s local food, culture, and landmarks. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour will give you a new appreciation for the city’s unique and vibrant atmosphere.

If you would like to book the tour, click here and follow the instructions. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and come hungry!

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Osaka

Osaka, a bustling port city located on the island of Honshu in Japan, is known for its rich history, diverse food scene, and lively entertainment. With so much to explore in this lively city, it’s no surprise that visitors often have many questions before they arrive. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Osaka, along with helpful answers to make your trip planning easier.

1. What is the best time to visit Osaka?

Osaka can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant during these seasons, and you can enjoy the famous cherry blossoms (Sakura) in the spring or the beautiful fall colors in the autumn. However, if you’re looking for cheaper prices, you may consider visiting during the summer months (June to August) when hotel rates are lower.

2. What are some must-visit attractions in Osaka?

Osaka is known for its many attractions, and there are several must-visit places that you should include on your itinerary. These include:

• Osaka Castle: The iconic castle is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks and has a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
• Dotonbori: A busy and colorful district that is famous for its food, nightlife, and entertainment. This area is best visited at night when the neon lights come alive.
• Universal Studios Japan: A popular theme park based on Hollywood movies that offers thrilling rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.
• Kuromon Ichiba Market: A lively market that offers fresh seafood, local snacks, and a variety of souvenirs. It’s a great place to sample local cuisine.

3. What is Osaka known for?

Osaka is known for its rich history, delicious food, and vibrant city life. The city is often called the “Kitchen of Japan” because of its world-famous street food and restaurants. Some of Osaka’s most famous dishes include okonomiyaki (Japanese-style savory pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls). Osaka is also home to some of Japan’s most famous landmarks, including Osaka Castle and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.

4. What is the best way to get around Osaka?

Osaka has an extensive public transportation network that includes trains, buses, and subways. The best way to get around is by using a prepaid transportation card such as the ICOCA or Suica card, which allows you to travel on all forms of public transportation. Taxis and rental cars are also available, but they can be expensive.

5. What is the currency used in Osaka?

The currency used in Osaka is the Japanese yen (JPY). It’s recommended to exchange money at banks or post offices, or use ATMs to withdraw money from your home bank account. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

6. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Osaka?

Japan has many unique cultural customs that are important to observe as a visitor. These include:

• Bowing: The Japanese bow to show respect and appreciation. When greeting someone, it’s customary to bow slightly and say “konnichiwa” (hello) or “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you).
• Removing Shoes: It’s customary to remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and traditional Japanese-style restaurants. There are usually slippers or sandals provided for guests to wear indoors.
• Handling Money: When paying for items, it’s customary to place money in a tray or on a small dish rather than handing it directly to the cashier.

Conclusion

Osaka is a fascinating city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or entertainment, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can make the most of your visit and have an unforgettable experience in Osaka.