Osaka — The Nation's Kitchen

Overview

Key Features

1. Katsuu-ji — the Temple of Victory — A temple with a history of around 1,300 years. Countless Daruma dolls symbolize determination and the fulfillment of wishes. The temple is also renowned for its seasonal landscapes and beautiful autumn foliage.
2. Osaka Castle — Spirit of Samurai — The famous castle that served as the residence of Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the unification of the country. After the Tokugawa restoration, the main tower was reconstructed in reinforced concrete in 1931.
3. Nakanoshima --- ART — An island of contemporary art and architecture. A cultural zone where art and modern architecture blend harmoniously. This is a place where modernity and tradition coexist.
4. Umeda Sky Building — Discover the modern Japanese skyline with futuristic landmarks such as Umeda Sky Building and Abeno Harukas—the tallest building in western Japan.
5. Lunch — Lunch at one of the local restaurants with your choice of cuisine: kaiseki, omakase sushi, or modern Japanese cuisine. Discover the gastronomic culture of Osaka.
6. Dotonbori — neon lights — Neon lights, canals, the famous Glico sign, vibrant subculture, takoyaki and crab dishes... a finale to experience the symbols of a modern port city.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Taste and Energy of Osaka

Exclusive Tour of Osaka

• 10:00 Hotel in Osaka
  After meeting your guide, a private car with a driver will pick you up from your hotel. You will head north, passing through the center of Osaka.
• 11:00 Katsua-ji Temple (Daruma Temple)
  An ancient temple with a history of about 1,300 years, located in a mountain valley at an altitude of nearly 400 meters and surrounded by forest. During the Heian period, it became famous thanks to the legend of the miraculous healing of Emperor Seiwa. Today, pilgrims from all over Japan come here to pray for “good fortune in victory” in all areas of life. Countless Daruma dolls create an impressive sight. Visitors make a wish by coloring in one eye of the Daruma, and after it is fulfilled, they complete the second eye—here you can experience this unique Japanese tradition of prayer up close.
• 13:00 Lunch
  We will select restaurants for you according to your preferences.
  Kaiseki: the pinnacle of Japanese gastronomy, showcasing seasonal ingredients. Sushi Omakase: the chef selects the finest ingredients of the day and prepares Edo-style sushi right before your eyes. Appreciate the craftsmanship at the counter—an exquisite Osaka experience. Contemporary Japanese cuisine: a modern interpretation of Japanese cooking, blending traditional techniques with current trends. Discover Osaka’s renowned culinary culture, known as the “nation’s kitchen,” at an acclaimed local establishment.
• 14:30 Osaka Castle
  The famous castle, whose construction was initiated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583 as a stronghold for the unification of the country. The original castle from Hideyoshi’s era was destroyed during the Summer Siege of Osaka (1615), and the current stone walls were restored under Tokugawa Hidetada (1620–1629). The main tower was reconstructed in reinforced concrete in 1931. Nevertheless, its majestic appearance, adorned in black and gold, still conveys the power of a Sengoku-period warlord.
• 15:30 Nakanoshima — Art Quarter
  Stepping away from history, immerse yourself in the art and architecture of modern Japan. This is today’s most vibrant art district, where striking contemporary architecture stands alongside cutting-edge design. At its heart lies the Osaka Nakanoshima Museum of Art. Opened in 2022, this impressive new museum with its black rectangular façade, designed by architect Katsuhiko Endo, has become a new symbol of the city. The atrium, known as the “Passage,” is itself a work of architectural art.
  Optional visit to FUJITA MUSEUM, one of Japan’s finest private museums, renowned for its exceptional collection of art and tea-culture treasures, housed within a striking contemporary architectural space that reinterprets traditional Japanese aesthetics.
• 16:30 Umeda — Japan’s Skyscraper Skyline
  We will head to the Umeda district, one of Osaka's two main business centers. According to your preferences, we will guide you to one of the following locations:
  Umeda Sky Building "Kuchu Teien Observatory": An innovative structure completed in 1993 by architect Hiroshi Hara. Its unique design, connecting two towers at a height of 173 meters, was included by the British newspaper The Times in the list of the "20 best buildings in the world."
  Abeno Harukas "Harukas 300": The tallest terminal building in Japan and the highest skyscraper in the western part of the country—300 meters. The observation deck from the 58th to the 60th floor offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Osaka plain, where you will be amazed by the scale of the city below.
• 17:15 A Stroll through Dotonbori
  Dotonbori is Osaka’s iconic entertainment district. Along the canal, dug in 1615, neon signs, towering billboards, street food stalls, and historic restaurants line the way. Take a memorable photo against the backdrop of the Glico sign or admire neon reflections in the canal from the bridge—immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that locals proudly call the true spirit of Osaka.
• 18:00 Hotel Osaka
  Return to the Osaka hotel.

Practical Information

Start time / Duration

10:00 / 8 hours

Included in the price

・Car with a personal driver
・Accompaniment by a professional guide
・Entrance tickets