Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Osaka , Japan

Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

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

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About this experience

Discover Osaka’s retro charm and flavors on a 3-hour Shinsekai & Dotonbori food tour. Begin in Shinsekai, a nostalgic district watched over by Tsutenkaku Tower. Stroll through Jan-Jan Yokocho alley, see the famous Billiken statue, and taste crispy Kushikatsu, Osaka’s beloved skewered delicacy. Step back in time along a “museum-like” food alley, only 1.2 meters wide, filled with artwork and history from over 80 years ago. Visit a hidden temple tucked between Namba’s neon lights for a moment of reflection before diving into Dotonbori—the true heart of Osaka. Known as the “nation’s kitchen” since the Edo period, Dotonbori is the city’s ultimate food hub. Here, indulge in iconic Osaka street foods like Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki while soaking up the district’s vibrant energy. Perfect for travelers seeking history, culture, and local cuisine, this tour blends the flavors of Osaka with its rich past for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Available options

Vegetarian Course

Vegetarian Course: ※Pork broth is still used for Kushikatsu. Vegan/Gluten free is not available. Please add remarks for any allergies you have.

Regular Course

Regular course: Vegan/Gluten free is not available. Please add remarks for any allergies you have.

What's included

3 drinks (Both alcohol and non-alcohol available)

1 piece of Okonomiyaki (a Japanese pancake-like delicacy with toppings)

1 box of Takoyaki ( a round, fried food made from batter, tender octopus and other ingredients)

6 pieces of Kushikatsu (a Japanese dish of deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables)

3 hrs with a MagicalTrip certified local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk through Jan-Jan Yokocho alley& Enjoy Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers)

With the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower watching over the town, Shinsekai offers a perfect mix of history and local culture. Enjoy crispy Kushi-katsu right in the heart of the neighborhood before making your way to Dotonbori, where the flavors and energy of Osaka truly come alive!

6 pieces of Kushikatsu:
Kushikatsu is a Japanese dish of deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables. (For vegetarian course, pork broth is still used in Kushikatsu) ※Vegan and gluten-free are not available.

Stop 2

Exploring the Shinsekai Area (Shinsekai Market → Tsutenkaku Tower → Billiken Statue)

The "museum-like" alley offers a virtual experience of Osaka's center as it existed over 80 years ago. It's astonishing how much history you can uncover in this narrow alley, spanning just 1.2 meters in width. The artwork adorning the walls creates a unique ambiance, transporting visitors back to bygone days. Exiting the alley, we'll visit a quaint temple nestled between Namba's bright neon signs and bustling shopping streets. Stepping into this temple feels like journeying from the modern era back in time. Taking a moment to delve into Osaka's history provides a brief respite before we proceed to a local Okonomiyaki restaurant in the Dotonbori area!

【Day】Souvenir shopping on Dōgu-ya-suji (including "Hōchō-ya" knife shop)

【Night】Explanation of Dōgu-ya-suji near Namba Grand Kagetsu → Souvenir shopping in the vicinity

Exiting the alley, we'll visit a quaint temple nestled between Namba's bright neon signs and bustling shopping streets. Stepping into this temple feels like journeying from the modern era back in time. Taking a moment to delve into Osaka's history provides a brief respite before we proceed to a local Okonomiyaki restaurant in the Dotonbori area!

Walk & Eat Your Way Through

Hōzen-ji Temple → Stroll through Ukiyo-koji (Ukiyo Alley)

Snack on takoyaki, sweets, and more (approx. ¥500)

Photo op at the Glico sign → Disband

WE will take pictures in front of the famous Glico sign.

Stop 6

Enjoy Osaka-style Okonomiyaki &Snap photos at the Glico Sign / Tour ends in Dotonbori
Okonomiyaki: Osaka's Savory Pancake
Okookonomi (meaning “as you like”) and yaki (meaning “grilled”). Made wit

Once golden and crispy, it’s finished with sweet-savory okonomiyaki sauce, creamy mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and aonori seaweed. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s fun to eat and

In Osaka, many restaurants let you cook okonomiyaki right at your table, making it not only a meal but also a cultural experience. It’s a must-try dish for anyone visiting Japan’s “Kitchen of the Nation.”

What's not included

Transportation fees (190JPY)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

63 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

904 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The itinerary for this tour includes some locations that are not accessible by a wheelchair or stroller.

All ages are welcome on this tour.

You do not need to cover the cost of the guide’s food and drinks.

Japan's climate has become more extreme, with summer temperatures reaching up to 40°C (110°F) and winter lows dropping to -5°C (20°F). Please prepare accordingly for the tour.

Gluten-free and Vegan CANNOT be accommodated on this tour.

For a vegetarian course, please choose the option upon booking, or request in advance, by the day before at latest. ※Request made on the tour day cannot be accommodated.

At the Kushikatsu (Deep-fired skewers) spot, dashi (pork broth) is still used even in the vegetarian Kushikatsu. If you're not able to consume dashi, kindly let us know in advanced so that we can prepare other vegetarian dishes.

Please inform us at least one day before the tour if you have any dietary requests or allergies to mention.※ Requests made on the tour day cannot be accommodated. Please kindly understand that we are unable to guarantee allergy-free meals, accommodation of dietary restrictions or the substitutions, as the food is prepared in kitchens that do not belong to us.

This tour may visit places where smoking is allowed. Please note that we might not be able to change the tour venues in this case.

Out of respect for all guests and to ensure the best experience for everyone, the tour will start on time. You will not be able to join the tour, receive a refund, or reschedule if you arrive late and miss the group.

Meeting point

In front of FamilyMart, Sanno Dobutsuen-mae store
Right outside Exit 1 of Dobutsuen-mae Station
Your guide will be holding a sign saying "MagicalTrip"

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