Full Day Walking Tour in Osaka Castle Temples and Ukiyoe

Osaka , Japan

Full Day Walking Tour in Osaka Castle Temples and Ukiyoe

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About this experience

Discover the best of Osaka on this full-day walking tour. Start at iconic Osaka Castle, then visit Shitennoji, one of Japan’s oldest temples, to explore its rich history. Dive into the bustling streets of Kuromon Market, where local flavors and fresh ingredients bring the city to life. Try your hand at a traditional ukiyo-e woodblock printing experience, then wander through the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori and the shopping district of Shinsaibashi. With a locally-based English-speaking guide, you’ll see both Osaka’s famous landmarks and hidden local gems, experiencing the city like a true insider.

Available options

Join from Osaka Station

Join from Osaka Station : We are waiting in front of the Travel Service Center OSAKA holding a "Snow Monkey Resorts" sign at 09:25

Join from Shin-Osaka Station

We are waiting between the Coffee Shop and the ticket machine. We will be holding up a "Snow Monkey Resorts" sign at 09:00

What's included

Guided tour with an English speaking guide

Train tickets required for the tour

Ukiyoe experience fee

Entrance fees for each spot during the tour

Detailed itinerary

We will enter the Osaka Castle Museum and learn about the history of Osaka and the castle itself. The castle was completed in 1597, but was destroyed many times. It was finally rebuilt by the Japanese government in 1995. The castle is a little different than when it was originally built.

Stop 2

After spending some time in and around the castle, we will head to Shitennoji Temple. It is the first Japanese Buddhist temple in Japan. Here you can see how Buddhism travelled from India to China and eventually landed in Japan thousands of years ago. We will learn some very interesting stories here.

Stop 3

One of Osaka’s leading food markets. Approximately 150 stores selling fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, food and beverages, clothing, etc. are lined up in an area approximately 580 metres south of Sennichimae.

Stop 4

Once you have had your fill of delicious food, we will head to a unique shrine around the area. And we will spend some time in the famous Dotonbori area. The symbolic business and downtown area of Minami, Osaka, is lined with huge three-dimensional billboards. It is not just about eating again if you are still not full. Here you will also have a traditional Japanese art experience, Ukiyoe. The earliest ukiyoe works were found in the 1670s and flourished from the 17th to the 19th century. It has now become one of the representative images of Japan.

After that, we will walk through Shinsaibashi, the city's main shopping area and return to Osaka and Shin-Osaka Station

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Akatsuki Square (暁の広場), JR Osaka Station

Please meet us at Akatsuki Square, located on the first floor of the North Gate Building inside JR Osaka Station. Look for a Snow Monkey Resorts Sign

Look for a wide open area with two escalators on either side. Do not go up the escalators

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