Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Osaka Castle
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Come with us to visit Osaka Castle for a day on foot and by public transport. Let's dive into Japanese history together for one day!
We first visit the Osaka History Museum, which traces the evolution of the city from its origins to the present day. We then go to the remains of Naniwa Palace, dating from the 7th century, located near the castle.
We finally enter the castle grounds to soak up the history of Japan, especially the end of the warring Provinces era (XV-17th century). Here we have the site of the famous Battle of Osaka in 1614-1615, which marked the fall of the Toyotomi and the rise of the Tokugawa.
After this day, you will learn more about the history of Japan and Osaka and you will have rejuvenated in the greenery of Osaka, with a good breath of clean air. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!
Available options
Guide Service Only
Pickup included
Guide + Travel & Entry Help
Pickup included
What's included
Guide and Guide Fees (their Entrance, Lunch and Transport Fees)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Osaka Castle is imperative to visit when visiting this eponymous city. Around the castle there are also other less well-known places that are well worth a visit, such as the Osaka History Museum, which is just next door. As its name suggests, it traces the history of this city from its origins to today.
2
The capital of the country was not fixed during the Asuka period (VI-VII century) and the capital rotated around. Osaka, under its former name of Naniwa, has a history of more than 1800 years. This city was also designated capital in 683, or at least place of residence, by Emperor Tenmu (622-686, reigning from 673). Emperors resided in these places from time to time, even during the time of Nara in the 8th century. Now, Naniwa Palace gives rise to a park where locals like to walk, maintain their shape or rest with picnics, greenery and running. The ruins are indicated and explained. We can learn more about the history of Osaka and Japan.
3
Stop 3
Osaka Castle Park surrounds the park and has several gardens and historic squares to visit. We leave Morinomiya station and head towards the park.
4
Stop 4
We're approaching the moat. This is an opportunity to explain the beginnings of the castle.
5
Stop 5
We visit the tomb of Toyotomi Hideyori, an unlucky chateau defeated in the siege of Osaka in 1615. This is an opportunity to learn more about Japanese modern history.
6
Stop 6
Osaka Castle is a faithful visual reproduction of the original castle. Inside, it is a museum that traces in particular the Osaka military campaign of 1615, place of action of the samurai.
7
This building is near Osaka Castle. We can buy souvenirs and learn more about the history of this castle.
What's not included
Osaka Castle
Osaka Museum of History
Public transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
About Namba
Namba is the vibrant, bustling heart of Osaka, renowned for its lively streets, delicious street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern entertainment, offering a unique experience to every traveler.
Top Attractions
Dotonbori
A bustling street known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. It's a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and iconic Glico Running Man sign.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free to explore (food and shopping costs extra)
Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
A long shopping street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place for shopping and people-watching.
Shopping
2-4 hours
Free to explore (shopping costs extra)
Hozenji Yokocho
A narrow, atmospheric alleyway with a moss-covered Buddha statue and traditional wooden buildings. It offers a glimpse into old Osaka.
Historical
30-60 minutes
Free to explore (food and drinks cost extra)
Amerikamura (Amemura)
A trendy district known for its youth culture, street fashion, and vintage shops. It's a great place to experience Osaka's modern subcultures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore (shopping costs extra)
Namba Parks
A modern shopping mall with a rooftop garden and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place for shopping and relaxation.
Shopping
1-3 hours
Free to explore (shopping and dining costs extra)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Takoyaki
Octopus-filled dough balls, cooked in a special mold and topped with sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
Snack
Contains seafood, gluten, and soy
Okonomiyaki
Savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, and cheese.
Main Dish
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Kushikatsu
Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, served with a dipping sauce.
Snack
Contains meat and seafood, gluten, and soy
Ramen
Noodle soup with various broths (tonkotsu, shoyu, miso) and toppings like chashu pork, egg, and bamboo shoots.
Main Dish
Contains gluten, soy, and sometimes seafood
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby mountains
Biking along the river
Kayaking or paddleboarding
Visiting onsen (hot springs)
Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony
Strolling through parks and gardens
Visiting temples and shrines
Attending a traditional festival
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)
These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city. Cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the charm.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
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 police presence. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and check the meter
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Namba
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 20 km from Namba
By train
Namba Station, Osaka Namba Station
By bus
Namba Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Osaka Metro is efficient, clean, and easy to use. It connects to major attractions and neighborhoods in Namba and beyond.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Dotonbori
Shinsaibashi
Nipponbashi
Amerikamura (Amemura)
Hozenji Yokocho
Day trips
Osaka Castle
3 km from Namba • Half day
A stunning castle with a rich history, offering beautiful views of the city and a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
Universal Studios Japan
15 km from Namba • Full day
A popular theme park featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and characters.
Kobe
30 km from Namba • Full day
A nearby port city known for its beef, scenic views, and historical sites. It's a great place for a day trip to explore a different side of Japan.
Festivals
Osaka Asian Film Festival • March
Sumiyoshi Matsuri • July 30-31
Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25
Pro tips
- Use an IC card (like ICOCA or Suica) for convenient payments on public transportation and at some shops and vending machines
- Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors for an authentic Osaka experience
- Visit Dotonbori at night to see the neon lights and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere
- Explore Hozenji Yokocho for a glimpse into old Osaka and traditional izakayas
- Use Google Maps or Japan Travel app for navigation and real-time updates on train schedules and delays
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
