How to Plan Your Tour of Osaka Castle and the Longest Local Shopping Street in Japan

Osaka is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, and there’s no better way to experience both than by visiting two of its most famous attractions: Osaka Castle and the Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street. This guided tour will take you on an adventure through the samurai-era castle and the bustling arcade, all while immersing you in the local scene. Here’s everything you need to know about planning your tour.

Overview

The tour starts with a visit to Osaka Castle, where you’ll learn about the legendary Hideyoshi and the history surrounding this beloved hero who built the castle. From atop the castle, you’ll get a grand view of the city, making it an ideal spot for taking pictures. Afterwards, you’ll continue to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, the longest covered shopping street in Japan. Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by over 600 shops and restaurants where locals shop, dine and mingle.

What’s Included

The tour offers hotel pick up and drop off, a private guide, and transportation (including subway, tram, and railway) fees to get around. Note that dining, shopping, and transportation fees outside of the tour are not included. Tips are also not included and left up to the discretion of the participants.

Meeting and Pickup

You can either head directly to the meeting point, which is Tourist Information Osaka, or request a pickup from your hotel. The meeting point is located in Osaka’s Kita Ward Um district, with the full address provided upon booking.

Booking Your Tour

Book the tour online through Viator using this link: book the tour here. Note that this tour is not offered by us but rather a reputable third-party company that specializes in guided tours.

How to Get the Most out of Your Tour

To fully enjoy your tour of Osaka Castle and the Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, follow these tips:

1. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so dress appropriately.
2. Bring cash. While some shops and restaurants may accept credit cards, it’s always safe to have cash on hand.
3. Be prepared for crowds. The Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for some crowds.
4. Listen to your guide. Your guide is there to provide you with a wealth of knowledge and insider tips, so make the most of their expertise.
5. Take plenty of pictures. Osaka Castle and the Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street are both picturesque locations, so don’t forget to snap some photos to commemorate your trip.

Book Your Tour Now

Osaka Castle and the Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street are two must-visit attractions during any trip to Japan. With the help of a local guide, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the history and culture of Osaka. With extensive transportation and a private guided tour, this tour ensures you take in the best Osaka has to offer. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure unlike any other!

FAQ about Osaka – Everything you need to know

Osaka is the third-largest city in Japan and has been one of the country’s most important economic engines since ancient times. With a population of over 19 million, Osaka is a vibrant, bustling, and energetic city that has so much to offer to anyone visiting or living in Japan. If you are planning a trip to Osaka, it’s natural to have a lot of questions about the city. This FAQ guide will answer all your questions and provide you with everything you need to know before stepping foot in this fantastic city.

1. What is the best time to visit Osaka?

Osaka has a humid subtropical climate, which means it can get quite hot and humid during the summer months (June to August). The best time to visit Osaka is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the temperature is mild and dry. The cherry blossom season in Osaka usually starts in late March, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful times to visit the city.

2. How to get to Osaka?

Osaka is served by two airports: Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport. Kansai International Airport is the main airport serving Osaka and is located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay. From the airport, you can take the Kansai Airport Express Haruka train, which takes about an hour to reach Osaka Station. You can also take a train from Tokyo to Osaka, which takes around 2.5 hours on the Shinkansen bullet train. Alternatively, there are several overnight sleeper trains that operate between Tokyo and Osaka.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Osaka?

Osaka has so many must-visit tourist attractions, but here are a few of the most famous ones:

(i) Osaka Castle:

Osaka Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and is a great place to learn about the history of Osaka. The castle dates back to the 16th century and is surrounded by a moat and beautiful gardens.

(ii) Universal Studios Japan:

Universal Studios Japan is a theme park located in Osaka that is perfect for families and kids. The park has many rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows like Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and more.

(iii) Dotonbori:

Dotonbori is a famous entertainment district in Osaka, known for its bright neon lights and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to try out the local cuisine and do some shopping.

4. What is the local cuisine in Osaka?

Osaka is often referred to as the “Kitchen of Japan” and is famous for its delicious street food. Some of the most popular local dishes include:

(i) Takoyaki:

Takoyaki is a ball-shaped snack made of batter and filled with octopus pieces, green onions, and tempura scraps. It’s one of the most famous Osaka street foods and can be found in many restaurants and food stalls.

(ii) Okonomiyaki:

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake made with a mixture of cabbage, flour, eggs, and meat or seafood. It’s often topped with a sweet-savory sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.

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

Osaka has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and subways. The city also has a bike-sharing program that is a great way to get around and explore the city’s streets and neighborhoods.

6. What are the best shopping areas in Osaka?

Osaka is a great place to do some shopping, with many excellent shopping areas and malls to choose from. Some of the best places to shop in Osaka include:

(i) Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street:

Shinsaibashi-suji is a popular shopping street in Osaka that has hundreds of shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to electronics and souvenirs.

(ii) Namba Parks:

Namba Parks is a shopping complex in Osaka that has many luxury shops, restaurants, and a rooftop garden.

7. What are the cultural events and festivals in Osaka?

Osaka has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many festivals and events that celebrate the city’s traditions and customs. Some of the most famous festivals in Osaka include:

(i) Tenjin Matsuri:

Tenjin Matsuri is a festival held in July each year to celebrate the god of learning and culture. The festival features colorful parades, traditional music, and fireworks shows.

(ii) Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri:

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is a festival held in September that features large, intricately carved wooden carts that are pushed through the streets of Kishiwada.

Book Your Tour Now

Osaka is a vibrant and exciting city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, shopping, or food, Osaka is an excellent place to visit. With this FAQ guide, you should have all the information you need to plan your trip to Osaka and make the most out of your stay in the city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Osaka

Osaka is the third most populous city in Japan after Tokyo and Yokohama. It is known for its buzzing nightlife, rich culture, and delicious local cuisine. As a tourist, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do and where to go in Osaka. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

1. Visit Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Built-in 1583, the castle played a significant role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century. The castle has been restored several times over the centuries and now serves as a museum filled with artifacts and exhibits from Japan’s feudal era. Make sure to take a stroll around the castle grounds, which offer stunning views of Osaka city.

2. Experience Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a popular entertainment district in Osaka that is famous for its bright neon lights, bustling streets, and delicious food. Take a walk down the street and sample some of Osaka’s famous street food, such as Takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes with various toppings). Don’t forget to take a picture with the famous Glico Running Man sign, which has become an iconic symbol of Osaka.

3. Visit Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan is a theme park located in Osaka that is popular among tourists and locals alike. The park has a range of attractions based on popular movies such as Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Jaws. Take a ride on the thrilling rollercoasters or watch the spectacular shows and parades that are held throughout the day. It is best to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

4. Explore Shitennoji Temple

Shitennoji Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, founded in 593 AD. The temple has been destroyed and reconstructed several times over the centuries, but still remains a popular tourist attraction. The temple grounds are vast and peaceful, with beautiful gardens and ponds. Visitors can also visit the main hall and pagoda, which are some of the oldest wooden structures in Japan.

5. Take a Walk in Umeda Sky Building

Umeda Sky Building is a striking skyscraper in Osaka that is famous for its unique design. The building has two towers that are connected by a floating observatory deck called the “Floating Garden Observatory”. Visitors can take a walk across the deck, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It is advised to visit during sunset for the best experience.

6. Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is located in the Osaka Bay Area. The aquarium has a wide range of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and penguins. Visitors can also learn about the ocean’s ecosystem and conservation efforts. It is best to visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds.

7. Try Local Cuisine

Osaka’s cuisine is famous for its rich flavor and diversity. Don’t miss a chance to try local dishes such as Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes with various toppings), Takoyaki (fried octopus balls), and Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables). For a unique experience, visit a traditional Japanese Izakaya (a type of bar) and sample local snacks and drinks.

Book Your Tour Now

There’s no shortage of things to do and places to see in Osaka. By following this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best that the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Osaka has something for everyone. Don’t forget to bring a comfortable pair of shoes, as there’s a lot of walking involved!