Our journey begins at 09:00 at Shin-Osaka Station or 09:25 at JR Osaka Station. The first destination is Osaka Castle. 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.
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.
Having the entire morning learning about Osaka’s ancient history, we will experience Osaka’s bustling life from our next destination. Let’s start with lunch! We are going to Kuromon Market. It is 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.
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 spending a fulfilling time in the Dotonbori area, it is almost time to say goodbye. Our final destination is Shinsaibashi. This is a popular shopping street in Osaka that has a long history as a regional commercial centre. There are not only Japanese local shops but also many overseas shops. Along the way, we will pass the famous billboard in Osaka and you can pose and take photos!
We will return to Shin-Osaka Station or JR Osaka Station together to say goodbye. However, if you would like to spend the rest of your day in the city centre, you are more than welcome. We will do our best to help you have a wonderful time in Osaka.
