How to Plan Your Osaka Tour: Access to Ohtsuki Noh Theatre with Self-Guided Tour

Are you planning to visit Osaka soon? You may want to experience the rich culture and arts of the city by visiting the famous Ohtsuki Noh Theatre. This theater is known for being the only Noh theater in the city that remained untouched during the war. However, it’s not always open on non-performance days, so planning your tour ahead of time can greatly enhance your experience. Here’s how you can plan your self-guided tour to the Ohtsuki Noh Theatre and appreciate the beauty of Noh Theatre in Osaka.

Step 1: Book the Self-Guided Tour

The first step is to book a self-guided tour to the Ohtsuki Noh Theatre. There are several tour companies that offer access to the Noh Theatre, but we recommend booking through GetYourGuide. They offer a tour that includes an audio guide and tablet in several languages to enhance your understanding of the performance and the theater itself. You can book the tour here: book the tour here.

Step 2: Get Your Audio Guide and Tablet

Upon arrival, head to the reception and collect your audio guide and tablet. The tablet provides an interactive experience, allowing you to see and hear the explanations of the Noh performance in multiple languages. Additionally, you’ll receive a booklet and paper Noh mask to complete your experience.

Step 3: Enter the Ohtsuki Noh Theatre and Explore

Now that you have your audio guide and tablet, it’s time to explore the Ohtsuki Noh Theatre. As you enter the theater, you’ll be amazed by the authentic Noh Stage which is registered as an important cultural property. The Noh Stage has been used for performances for over 80 years, and you can take photos with it as a background.

Step 4: Highlights of the Self-Guided Tour

The self-guided tour includes several highlights that you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the highlights:

Viewing the Noh Theatre

The self-guided tour includes an opportunity to view the Noh Theatre, even on non-performance days. You’ll have ample time to explore the theater and take photos.

Multilingual Explanations of Noh

The audio guide and tablet provide explanations of Noh Theatre in several languages, making it accessible to visitors from different parts of the world.

Take Photos with the Noh Stage as a Background

The Noh Stage is an excellent backdrop for photos. You’ll have a chance to capture memories with this unique cultural property as a backdrop.

Learn about Noh at the Ohtsuki Noh Theatre

The Ohtsuki Noh Theatre was built in 1935 and is the first Noh Theatre in Japan that had chairs for the audience. This theater offers an authentic glimpse into the culture and arts of Osaka.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re visiting Osaka and want to explore its rich culture, the Ohtsuki Noh Theatre is a must-see attraction. With a self-guided tour, you can explore the theater even on non-performance days and interpret the performance with an audio guide and tablet. The theater’s unique history and importance make it a memorable experience that you won’t want to miss.

Frequently Asked Questions About Osaka

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, Osaka is a vibrant and bustling city full of history, culture, and incredible food. Here are some frequently asked questions about Osaka to help you plan your trip to this fascinating destination.

1. Where is Osaka located?

Osaka is located in the Kansai region of Japan, on the island of Honshu. It is bordered by Kyoto to the east and Kobe to the west.

2. How do I get to Osaka?

Osaka is easily accessible by plane, train, and bus. There are two airports that serve Osaka: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka International Airport (ITM). From KIX, you can take the JR Haruka express train to Osaka, which takes about 50 minutes. If you arrive at ITM, you can take a bus or taxi to Osaka city center. If you’re traveling from other parts of Japan, you can take the shinkansen (bullet train) to Shin-Osaka Station, which is about 15 minutes from Osaka city center by train.

3. What are the top attractions in Osaka?

Osaka has no shortage of things to see and do! Some of the top attractions include:

• Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 16th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens
• Universal Studios Japan, a popular theme park with attractions based on movies and TV shows
• Dotonbori, a lively shopping and entertainment district famous for its street food and neon signs
• Shitennoji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan
• Kuromon Ichiba Market, a bustling indoor market where you can find all kinds of fresh seafood, produce, and snacks

4. When is the best time to visit Osaka?

The best time to visit Osaka depends on your preferences. Spring (March to May) is a popular time to visit, as the cherry blossoms are in bloom and the weather is mild. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, but it’s also when many festivals take place. Fall (September to November) is another beautiful time to visit, with mild weather and colorful foliage. Winter (December to February) can be cold, but it’s also a great time to enjoy hot pot and other warm foods.

5. What is the food like in Osaka?

Osaka is known for its incredible food scene, with dishes like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) being popular local specialties. You can find these dishes and more at street food stalls, local restaurants, and markets throughout the city.

6. What is the transportation like in Osaka?

Osaka has an extensive transportation system, including buses, trains, and subways. The Osaka Metro system is especially useful for getting around the city, with multiple lines that connect to major attractions and neighborhoods. You can purchase a reusable IC card like Suica or Pasmo to make traveling easier and more convenient.

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

In Japan, it’s commonly accepted to bow when greeting someone, and to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain designated areas like temples or traditional restaurants. Tipping is not expected in Japan, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

8. Is Osaka a safe city?

Osaka is generally considered a safe city, with low rates of serious crime. However, like any big city, it’s important to take basic precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Book Your Tour Now

Osaka is a truly dynamic city with so much to see, do, and eat. Whether you’re interested in history, pop culture, or just want to experience some of the best food in Japan, Osaka is a must-visit destination. With this FAQ as your guide, you’ll be well-prepared to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Osaka

Osaka is a must-visit city in Japan that’s famous for its culture, food, and attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, you may be wondering how to spend your time there to make the most of your visit. To help you out, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide of the best things to do and see in Osaka. Let’s get started!

1. Explore Osaka Castle

One of the top attractions in Osaka is Osaka Castle, which is located in the middle of the city. The castle has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century, when it was first built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle has been reconstructed a few times since then, but it’s still an impressive sight to see. You can explore Osaka Castle on your own or join a guided tour. If you choose to go on your own, be sure to check out the castle museum and the observation deck for great views of the city.

2. Visit Dotonbori

Another must-visit area in Osaka is Dotonbori, a bustling street that’s known for its vibrant nightlife and street food. The street is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, and there are plenty of food stands selling local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. At night, Dotonbori is illuminated with neon lights, making it a great place to take photos and soak up the atmosphere. Be sure to try some of the local food while you’re there!

3. Wander Around Shinsekai

Shinsekai is a neighborhood located in southern Osaka that’s known for its unique atmosphere and traditional Japanese architecture. The area was built in the early 1900s and has a retro feel to it, with many of the buildings and signs dating back to that time. While you’re in Shinsekai, be sure to check out the famous Tsutenkaku Tower, which offers great views of the city from the observation deck.

4. Visit the Osaka Aquarium

If you’re traveling with kids, or if you’re just a fan of marine life, be sure to visit the Osaka Aquarium. The aquarium is one of the largest in the world and is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. One of the main attractions at the Osaka Aquarium is the Pacific Ocean tank, which holds over 5,400 tons of water and is home to giant whale sharks and manta rays.

5. Take a Day Trip to Kyoto

While Kyoto isn’t technically in Osaka, it’s only a short train ride away and is definitely worth a visit. Kyoto is known for its traditional temples and shrines, as well as its beautiful gardens and palaces. Some must-visit sites in Kyoto include the stunning Kinkaku-ji temple (also known as the Golden Pavilion) and the peaceful Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is known for its thousands of torii gates.

6. Shop at Shinsaibashi

Shinsaibashi is another trendy shopping district in Osaka that’s great for fashion and food. The area is home to several large department stores, as well as many smaller boutiques and specialty shops. If you’re looking for souvenirs, be sure to check out the shops that sell traditional Japanese crafts, like pottery and textiles. And if you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of food stalls and restaurants selling tasty treats.

7. Try Some Local Cuisine

No trip to Osaka is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Osaka is known for its delicious street food, including takoyaki (deep-fried octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to try fugu (blowfish), which is a delicacy in Japan. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, be sure to try some of the local desserts, like mochi (sticky rice cakes) and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet beans or custard).

Final Thoughts

There’s so much to do and see in Osaka that it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. But with this guide, you’ll be able to hit all the top attractions and experience the best of what Osaka has to offer. Be sure to take your time and soak up the culture and atmosphere of this amazing city!