Meeting Point

Your hotel

Sumiyoshi Taisha

This 1800 year old Shinto shrine is the head of the 2300 shrines of Sumiyoshi shintoïsm. It features four main sanctuaries and a gorgeous bridge.

The Hankai streetcar

We'll go to our next destination riding on the last remaining streetcar in Osaka, with a 120 year old history going back to the Meiji emperors. Some of the cars even predate the second World War. The ride gives you a view of everyday southern Osaka at street level that the Metro completely hides.

Shinsekai and Tsūtenkaku Tower

Shinsekai is a lovely retro neighborhood created a century ago with Paris and Coney Island as its models. Tsūtenkaku Tower, a 103 meter high copy of the Eiffel Tower, is still one of Osaka's symbols. Today Shinsekai is famous for its neon lights and the huge "statues" of the crabs, octopuses or sushi crowning the restaurants' entrances.

Nipponbash and Den Den Town

We take a walk through Osaka's lectronics, hobby and anime district en route to our lunch.

Lunch at Kuromon market

Osaka's food heaven is a joy to discover, and an ideal place to taste various kinds of street food. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu: you'll love it.

Osaka Castle

This 16th century castle is one of Japan's most famous landmarks and played an important part in its history. Of the interior, unfortunately, nothing authentic remains, but the impressive walls, tours, moats and garden are free for all to enjoy.

Hozenji and Hozenji Yokocho

We go back south to the bustling Dotonbori shopping district. But first ... we step right from the shops into another world. Hidden in the maze of shops is Hozen-Ji, a cute little temple famous for its moss-covered deity. Its tiny street, Hozen-Ji Yokocho, breathes old Japan.

River walk & Don Quijote

A short walk following Dotonbori River, one of Osaka's highlights, brings us to the flagstore of a chain that's almost symbolic of Japan: Don Quijote, known everywhere as Donki. On 5 relatively small, cramped floors you'll find literally everything. From sweets for kids to Rolex watches, from naughty toys to solid suitcases, from electronics to carnival outfits: this truly is Aladdin's cave. Love it or hate it, but until you've been to Donki you haven't been shopping in Japan! :-)

Dotonbori

We finish our day in Dotonbori, Osaka's shopping and café district. Whether you prefer strolling alongside the river, jumping into the maze of shops, or just enjoying the vibrant atmosphere: Dotonbori never disappoints.

Ending Point

Dotonbori, or if you prefer I'll take you back to your hotel.