From Temples to Izakayas: Osaka Sake Tasting & Bar Hopping Tour
Discover Osaka’s nightlife like a true local! Stroll through the neon lights of Dotonbori and the quiet charm of Hozenji Temple, then taste Osaka’s street food such as takoyaki and traditional sweets. Enjoy bar hopping in Namba’s hidden izakayas with Japanese sake tasting, and end the night at a cozy karaoke snack bar where locals gather to sing and drink. This tour blends culture, food, and fun for an authentic Osaka night out you’ll never forget.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Namba Station Exit 14
- Let’s meet in front of the FamilyMart right outside Namba Station Exit 14. If your hotel is located near Namba Station, I can also meet you there for your convenience!
Stroll Through Dotonbori
Explore the lively streets of Dotonbori and capture memorable photos in front of famous landmarks like the Glico Sign and Kuidaore Taro. Along the way, I’ll share stories about Osaka’s unique culture and history, giving you a deeper understanding of the city beyond the sights.
Cheers at a Local Izakaya!
At our first stop, enjoy delicious drinks and Osaka specialties or traditional Japanese dishes at a lively local izakaya. While savoring the food, I’ll share insights into Japan’s unique izakaya culture and other customs that many travelers don’t usually get to experience.
Japanese Sake Tasting
Did you know there are many types of Japanese sake? Using an original tasting chart, you’ll try several kinds to discover your favorite. Along with the sake, enjoy traditional Japanese dishes called obanzai for a true taste of local cuisine.
Visit Hozenji Temple
Let’s visit Hozenji Temple, a peaceful spot tucked away in the bustling city. I’ll explain how Japanese people offer prayers and the differences between temples and shrines, giving you a deeper understanding of Japanese traditions.
Enjoy Japanese Street Food
If you have room in your stomach, try some Japanese street food! Osaka specialties like takoyaki and sweet treats such as taiyaki are highly recommended.
Final Stop: A Hidden Local Karaoke Bar
At the end of the tour, enjoy all-you-can-drink sake at a hidden karaoke snack bar frequented only by locals. You can sing along with everyone or simply soak in the unique atmosphere — either way, it’s a fun and authentic way to finish your night in Osaka.
Ending Point
Namba Station Exit 14
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
English-speaking guide
Japanese souvenirs
Photo opportunities
Food and drinks: approximately ¥8,000–¥10,000 per person (this includes both the guest’s food and drinks as well as the guide’s drinks).
Transportation to the meeting point
Tour Important Information
Guests are responsible for all food and drink costs during the tour, including the guide’s drinks.
The total cost for all stops is approximately ¥8,000–¥10,000 per person.
Please inform us in advance of any allergies or special requests so we can accommodate them.
Some restaurants may allow smoking. If you prefer a non-smoking environment, please request this in advance.
This tour involves alcohol. Please let us know in advance if any participants are under 20.
I can adjust the itinerary to visit child-friendly or non-alcoholic venues if needed.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Kotomi M.
Hi, I’m Kotomi, born and raised in Sakai City, Osaka – home to Japan’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, the Mozu Tombs.
During my student years, I studied abroad in Malaysia and traveled to more than 15 countries, which deepened my love for history, culture, and food around the world. After graduating, I worked at a trading company in the textile industry, visiting international exhibitions and working with people from many countries. Eventually, I decided to become a tour guide because I wanted to share the beauty and charm of my hometown, Osaka, and the Kansai region with travelers.
I love talking about temples and shrines, Japanese customs, and even anime culture. I also know plenty of delicious local restaurants around the Namba area. While Osaka is my main focus, I can also guide you through Kyoto, Nara, Wakayama, and Shiga.
My goal is to make your trip to Japan an unforgettable and truly authentic experience. Let’s explore together!
Reviews
Mitchell M.
“Perfect day !! ”
Kotomi M. Was waiting for us right when we exited the ship . Took us to 7/11 , Lawsons and family Mart and we were off . 90 minute train ride went so fast getting to know our new friend. Trains / Buses and Taxis took us everywhere . Kotomi started the day as our tour guide and ended the day as a new friend my wife and I meet. We saw the bamoboo trees , temples , shrines , shopping the oldest Starbucks and we had an amazing lunch and revolving sushi bar . She explained Japanese culture too us. Helped us navigate the trains and buses. Always knew where a restroom was. Very knowledgeable and proud of her history. I recommend her to anyone thinking of booking a tour
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Kotomi M.
Thank you so much, Mitchell, for choosing me as your guide! You and your wife were so respectful of Japanese culture, and seeing you both enjoy every single moment made the day incredibly special and fun for me too. It was a super hot day, but we managed to survive thanks to those Biore cooling sheets, didn’t we? (haha) I truly hope we can meet up and explore together again on your next trip! Kotomi
Theo M.
“Amazing day!”
We had an amazing day with Kotomi touring Osaka. She was super patient with us and we shared some excellent food while taking in some of the sites and being escorted around town like a true local. 100% recommend. She is warm and inviting. She worked at our pace and helped translate to buy things we were looking for that otherwise we would never have managed.
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Kotomi M.
Dear Theo, Thank you so much for choosing me as your guide. I truly appreciate your kind and thoughtful review. It was so lovely to see your wife enjoying her shopping so earnestly—it was really adorable! I hope you and your family will visit Osaka again someday. I’ll be looking forward to seeing you! Kotomi
Carlos B.
“Excellent guide ”
Kotomi is a brilliant guide. She put together the ideal itinerary for us based on our preferences and we could not have enjoyed ourselves more. Would highly recommend exploring Osaka with her.
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Kotomi M.
Carlos,Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I truly appreciate your kind words. It was such a pleasure exploring Osaka with you both. I had a fantastic time as well, and I’m so grateful that I was able to share those special moments with you. I was also deeply touched by the lovely souvenir you gave me — it meant a lot. I sincerely hope you will visit Japan again someday. I would love to see you again! Kotomi
$171/ per group
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