Osaka Kickstart: Hotspots & Hidden Gems Tour

Itinerary

1. These hard to find winding, cobblestone alleys steeped with character & tradition is remarkable . We'll also find walls painted with Osaka's history etched into it. (20 min)
2. Visiting Osaka's Dotonbori River is a must.....one of our highlights. Along side this picturesque scene is a treasure trove full of more than a variety of stores to entertain you. (45 min)
3. Explore Shinsaibashi-suji, Osaka’s lively shopping street, featuring unique Japanese fashion, quirky gadgets, and vibrant local energy. (20 min)
4. The original bridge was made out of wood in the 1600's...more than 400yrs later it still stand but now made out of iron. It is at the very heart of Osaka and is known as the local meeting spot. (15 min)
5. We'll guide you to hidden streets in this area where it has Japan's version of what they think America is. hahah, it even has a statue of liberty on top of a building (15 min)
6. (almost always get here on a 3hr tour..depends how fast the group walks) We'll step into some fish market stores that look unremarkable from the outside but when inside exposes seafood heaven. Watch a store cut and prepare a fugu(puffer fish). Learn how to cut a tuna.... Salmon sashimi is some of the best I've had in Japan. (15 min)
7. (almost always get here on a 3hr tour..depends how fast the group walks) It's tricky navigating these tucked away quirky stores. Thats what we're here for...to take you to the gaming & cosplay zone and explore your inner nerdy side hahaha
8. Only available on 4, 5, or 7-hour private tours. Explore Shinsekai, Osaka’s retro neighborhood, full of quirky fishing restaurants, vintage game arcades, board game shops, and old vinyl stores. Step off the beaten path to experience the city’s vibrant local culture and hidden gems. (30 min)
9. (ONLY ON THE 4HR OR 5HR PRIVATE TOUR) We get a private knife lesson here. Understand the whole process of how a knife is made (crafted at the rear of the building). After you'll get to experience cutting with these world famous knives of Sakai (made in the south of Osaka). This lesson is included in the price. (15 min) Admission included
10. (ONLY AVAILABLE ON 5HR OR 7HR PRIVATE TOUR) Standing an impressive and staggering 300m tall, Abeno Harukasu is Japan's tallest building (not structure or tower). Staggering! (20 min)
11. (ONLY AVAILABLE ON 5HR OR 7HR PRIVATE TOUR) It is the first Buddhist and oldest officially administered temple in Japan. A temple that exudes spirituality...even if you're not religious like me. (30 min)
12. (Only on 5 or 7-Hour Private Tours) Explore Osaka’s most iconic landmark, Osaka Castle, and stroll through the surrounding park while learning about its pivotal role in the unification of Japan. This stop combines striking architecture, historical insights, and scenic grounds for a truly memorable experience. (1h 10min)
13. (ONLY AVAILABLE ON A 7HR PRIVATE TOUR) A hidden gem specializing in this unique, timeless tradition...small but a welcoming atmosphere with a mix of old, originals from the Edo period, and new works. (15 min) Admission included
14. (ONLY AVAILABLE ON 7HR PRIVATE TOUR) I'm not a huge fan of museums, but this one is very different. The highlight is a reconstruction of an ancient Osaka town featuring houses, stores and homes of the wealthy & commoners. (45 min)

Meeting & end point