Osaka Food Quest: Self-Guided Culinary & History Adventure

Osaka , Japan

Osaka Food Quest: Self-Guided Culinary & History Adventure

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(6 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel through time in the "Nation’s Kitchen" and discover the delicious history of Osaka! Solve clues, uncover foodie secrets, and explore how the city evolved from the Edo period to the vibrant metropolis it is today.

Using your smartphone, you’ll solve 10 puzzles while walking through famous areas like Dotonbori, uncovering stories about traditional dishes, culinary customs, and cultural rituals at Japanese temples. Each challenge brings you closer to tasting and understanding the heart of Kansai’s incredible food scene. Along the way, you’ll spot mouthwatering specialties - and we highly suggest you try a few!

What makes this tour unique?
It’s a flavor-packed, interactive walking quest that blends Osaka’s culinary delights with rich historical storytelling and real-world exploration.

Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, couples, and families looking for a playful and delicious way to discover Osaka.

Available options

Osaka Food Quest: Self-Guided Culinary & History Adventure

What's included

10 puzzle-based challenges

Mobile access code for the quest

Storyline content focused on Osaka’s food and history

Flexibility: pause and resume anytime

Detailed itinerary

Originally constructed to provide access to the nearby Ebisu Shrine, the bridge is the location of a legendary curse on Osaka's baseball team, the Hanshin Tigers. More practically, the bridge provides a link between the Shinsaibashi-suji and Ebisubashi-suji shopping districts.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

Konamon Museum is a place where you can eat, learn about and make Takoyaki: Osaka's soul food.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

Showa Taishu Horumon Dotonbori is a horumon restaurant, specialized in beef offal.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

Built in 1637, Hozenji Temple pays homage to Fudo Myoo, one of five guardians of Buddhism. During the 1600s, Namba and the surrounding area of Dotonbori were blossoming as a center for entertainment, with dramatic performances of kabuki and bunraku taking place throughout the district.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

The National Bunraku Theater was established in 1984 as the home of Bunraku in the Kansai region. The theater has a main hall with 753 seats and a small hall with 159 seats. The main hall is used mainly for Bunraku performances, but also for traditional Japanese dance performances, and other forms of drama.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

Kuromon, which literally means “black gate,” was originally a fish market that opened around 1822 (and was approved as an official market in 1902). The name is said to have come from the black gate of Enmyo Temple, which stood in this area until 1912, the last year of the Meiji Period.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

The Namba Yasaka Shrine is said to have been commissioned by the Emperor Hanzei in honor of his father, Emperor Nintoku. The present day Kawachi Matsubara City was the original site of the shrine. After Hideyoshi Toyotomi began the construction of the Osaka castle, it was moved to its present location.

Here you will have to look around to find the answer to our challenge to advance to the new location and learn the story of this place.

What's not included

A physical tour guide

Available languages

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please use Google Maps or other map services to arrive at this location. When you arrive, please follow the instructions inside the Questo app closely.

Important notes

- Unlock your city game in the Questo app using this link: [https://questoapp.com/unlock](https://questoapp.com/unlock)
- Download the Questo app using this link (it’s free): [onelink.to/questo](http://onelink.to/questo)
- Head to the starting point and enjoy your city game!

About Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, bustling city known for its rich culinary scene, historic sites, and modern entertainment. As Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, it offers a dynamic mix of traditional culture and contemporary urban life.

Top Attractions

Osaka Castle

A iconic symbol of Osaka, this castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been beautifully restored. It offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history and features a museum and scenic park.

Historical 2-3 hours 600 JPY

Dotonbori

A lively and colorful entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Dotonbori is a must-visit for foodies and those looking to experience Osaka's energetic atmosphere.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Universal Studios Japan

A popular theme park featuring attractions based on famous movies and characters, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park. It's a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Entertainment Full day 8,400-10,600 JPY (varies by season and tickets)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whales, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and educational programs.

Nature 2-3 hours 2,600 JPY

Shinsekai

A retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and a variety of local eateries. Shinsekai is known for its unique blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into Osaka's past.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled batter balls, cooked to perfection and topped with savory sauces and bonito flakes. A must-try street food in Osaka.

Snack Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, cooked on a griddle. Often referred to as 'Japanese pizza.'

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. A specialty of the Shinsekai district.

Dinner Contains seafood and meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Ramen

Noodle soup dish with various broths, toppings, and noodle types. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Cycling tours Kayaking and water sports Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional workshops (e.g., calligraphy, ikebana)

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Cherry blossoms in March and April add to the appeal.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from city center
Itami Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station

By bus

Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of eight lines that connect major attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Umeda Namba Shin-Osaka Tennoji

Day trips

Kyoto

50 km • Full day

A historic city known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Nara

40 km • Half day to full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. Nara offers a mix of history, culture, and nature.

Kobe

30 km • Full day

A port city known for its historic sites, scenic views, and delicious beef. Kobe offers a mix of culture, history, and culinary delights.

Festivals

Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15 Osaka Castle Illumination • December (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as ICOCA or Suica, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, vending machines, and convenience stores
Try local specialties, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, at street food stalls and local restaurants
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines
Explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Den Den Town, to experience the diverse culture and atmosphere of Osaka
Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Osaka Metro, JR trains, and buses, to easily navigate and explore the city