Full-Day Goldfish Unique Experience in Yamato-Koriyama

Namba , Japan

Full-Day Goldfish Unique Experience in Yamato-Koriyama

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About this experience

Come with us to Yamato-Koriyama to visit its old town on foot and by public transport and learn more about Japanese goldfish!

We start with the castle of Koriyama, feudal military vestige of the city. We then walk around the city. Traditional houses and small streams welcome us and offer us a glimpse of the Edo period (16th-19th century).

We can have an indigo dyeing experience in Hakomotakan Konya, ancestral know-how. We can then try our luck at goldfish fishing, a traditional Japanese summer activity, in Kochikuya. Here we can practice all year round! Finally, we visit the Goldfish Museum. We are learning more about the unique culture of these fish in the city.

After this day, you will learn more about Japanese history and goldfish, part of Japanese culture. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

Available options

Guide + Travel & Entry Help

Pickup included

Guide Service Only

Pickup included

What's included

Guide and Guide Fees (their Transport, Lunch, and Entrance fees)

Detailed itinerary

This castle was built in the 12th century. At that time, it was a stronghold of Nara and its region. Today, its ruins remain a popular tourist spot. Visitors come especially for their garden and cherry blossoms in April!

The city is simple and quiet, you can feel the history of Japan. The atmosphere changes depending on the street where you are, streets with old traditional Japanese houses, street in which runs a small stream, etc. In the 16th century, Hidenaga Toyotomi, master of the place, established the sharing between citizens. He invited several artisans to come and settle in Yamato-Koriyama and then grouped them according to their professions. I'll give you all the references.

If you go to Japan in summer, you will see a lot of people in yukatas (light kimonos) at festivals having fun fishing goldfish (kingyo sukui). This is very representative of summer Japan and it is to be done at least once when visiting this country. It is possible to practice this fishing year round at the “Kochikuya” shop in Yamato-Koriyama.

This building is administered by the breeders’ association “Yamato Kingyoen” (literally “the gold-colored fish fields of Yamato”). Masaji Shimata, the founder of the association, had the building built with his own money. He wanted to popularize the history and culture of these goldfish. So, this is an opportunity for us to visit this place.

What's not included

around 2,000 JPY/person

Indigo Blue Experience: 1500JPY/person (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN FR

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Namba

Namba is the vibrant, bustling heart of Osaka, renowned for its lively streets, delicious street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern entertainment, offering a unique experience to every traveler.

Top Attractions

Dotonbori

A bustling street known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and iconic Glico Running Man sign.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to explore (food and shopping costs extra)

Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

A long shopping street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place for shopping and people-watching.

Shopping 2-4 hours Free to explore (shopping costs extra)

Hozenji Yokocho

A narrow, atmospheric alleyway with a moss-covered Buddha statue and traditional wooden buildings. It offers a glimpse into old Osaka.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free to explore (food and drinks cost extra)

Amerikamura (Amemura)

A trendy district known for its youth culture, street fashion, and vintage shops. It's a great place to experience Osaka's modern subcultures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore (shopping costs extra)

Namba Parks

A modern shopping mall with a rooftop garden and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place for shopping and relaxation.

Shopping 1-3 hours Free to explore (shopping and dining costs extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled dough balls, cooked in a special mold and topped with sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.

Snack Contains seafood, gluten, and soy

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, and cheese.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, served with a dipping sauce.

Snack Contains meat and seafood, gluten, and soy

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths (tonkotsu, shoyu, miso) and toppings like chashu pork, egg, and bamboo shoots.

Main Dish Contains gluten, soy, and sometimes seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby mountains Biking along the river Kayaking or paddleboarding Visiting onsen (hot springs) Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting temples and shrines Attending a traditional festival

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city. Cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the charm.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

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 police presence. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and check the meter
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Namba
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 20 km from Namba

By train

Namba Station, Osaka Namba Station

By bus

Namba Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It connects to major attractions and neighborhoods in Namba and beyond.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dotonbori Shinsaibashi Nipponbashi Amerikamura (Amemura) Hozenji Yokocho

Day trips

Osaka Castle

3 km from Namba • Half day

A stunning castle with a rich history, offering beautiful views of the city and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.

Universal Studios Japan

15 km from Namba • Full day

A popular theme park featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and characters.

Kobe

30 km from Namba • Full day

A nearby port city known for its beef, scenic views, and historical sites. It's a great place for a day trip to explore a different side of Japan.

Festivals

Osaka Asian Film Festival • March Sumiyoshi Matsuri • July 30-31 Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25

Pro tips

Use an IC card (like ICOCA or Suica) for convenient payments on public transportation and at some shops and vending machines
Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors for an authentic Osaka experience
Visit Dotonbori at night to see the neon lights and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere
Explore Hozenji Yokocho for a glimpse into old Osaka and traditional izakayas
Use Google Maps or Japan Travel app for navigation and real-time updates on train schedules and delays