Osaka Early Bird Trail in Katsuo-ji and Minoh Falls
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join a tour by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity.
Enjoy a refreshing nature escape from the bustling city of Osaka on this 5-hour guided tour. Explore the serene Katsuo-ji Temple, renowned for its good luck charms, and take a scenic walk to the beautiful Minoh Waterfall. Savor a delicious local lunch made from fresh regional ingredients as you immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and nature of Japan. Perfect for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a unique blend of adventure and local flavor.
- Small group tour led by an English-speaking local guide
- Convenient taxi transfers included for an easy experience
- Discover hidden gems in nature, avoiding the crowds
- Enjoy a local lunch featuring fresh, regional ingredients
Available options
Osaka Early Bird Trail in Katsuo-ji and Minoh Falls
What's included
Souvenir
Facility Admission Fee
A Certified guide by MagicalTrip
Local Lunch
Nature
Tour Photos
Taxi ride
Detailed itinerary
1
Burgar King in front of Minoo q's mall
Please go to the south exit of Minoh-Kayano Station, cross the street, and you’ll find a Burger King right there.
Our guide will be holding a red/orange sign saying "Magical Trip"
2
Tour begins & taxi transfer (Minoh Kayano → Katsuo-ji Temple)
3
Explore Katsuo-ji Temple
Meet your local guide at the starting point and take a short taxi ride to Katsuo-ji, a temple famous for bringing good luck. Craft your own postcard by stamping unique temple seals, purchase a charming daruma amulet, and place it wherever you like—or take it home as a keepsake. Listen to your guide’s stories as you explore the temple grounds, offering a peaceful and meaningful start to your day without the usual crowds.
4
Taxi transfer (Katsuo-ji → Mt.Minoh water fall parking space)
5
First half of the hike (approx. 1.5 km)
Stroll through the souvenir street → Minoh Park Insect Museum → Hakuryu Daimyojin Shrine → Ryuanji Temple (Main Hall & Bentendo) → Dr. Hideyo Noguchi Monument → Tojin Modori Rock → Minoh Waterfall
6
Enjoy Minoh Waterfall
Minoh Falls is a waterfall located within Meiji no Mori Minoh Quasi-National Park in Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture. It is also known as Minoh Otaki. It has been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls.
7
Second half of the hike (approx. 2 km)
Walk back along easy route, with an optional stop at Saikouji Temple if time allows
8
The end of the tour we will eat local lunch
Walk down the scenic trails with your guide toward a nearby local restaurant, and enjoy a delicious lunch made with fresh, regional ingredients. Share stories, taste authentic flavors, and soak in the local atmosphere—this finale blends relaxation, culture, and food for a truly memorable experience.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
To respect all participants, the tour will start on time. Guests arriving late will not be able to join, reschedule, or receive a refund. Please note that there may be other participants on the same tour.
Due to stairs, narrow passages, and some uphill paths, this tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues or those using a wheelchair.
Strollers are allowed, but some temples can only be accessed by stairs, so you may need to wait outside in those cases.
As this is a walking tour, please wear comfortable shoes suitable for long distances.
Since we will visit Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, please dress respectfully.
Please bring rain gear in case of light rain. The tour will proceed unless conditions are unsafe.
Vegetarian options are limited and may include fish-based broth (dashi). Gluten-free or allergy-specific meals cannot be guaranteed, as food is prepared in external kitchens. We will do our best to accommodate dietary needs whenever possible.
You do not need to pay for the guide’s food or drinks. Please bring cash if you wish to purchase additional snacks or beverages. The itinerary order may change depending on traffic, weather, or facility operations. If a location is closed, an alternative will be arranged. The tour may be canceled in case of severe weather for safety reasons.
Temple entrance fees and lunch are included in the tour price.
Meeting point
Burgar King in front of Minoo q's mall
Please go to the south exit of Minoh-Kayano Station, cross the street, and you’ll find a Burger King right there
Our guide will be holding a red/orange sign saying "Magical Trip"
About Osaka Prefecture
Osaka Prefecture, located in the Kansai region, is a vibrant urban center known for its rich culinary scene, historic landmarks, and modern entertainment districts. Often referred to as 'The Nation's Kitchen,' it offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and contemporary urban life.
Top Attractions
Osaka Castle
A symbol of Osaka, this iconic castle was originally built in the 16th century. The castle grounds offer beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
600 JPY
Dotonbori
A bustling entertainment and dining district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant atmosphere. Dotonbori is a must-visit for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.
Entertainment/Cultural
2-4 hours
Free to explore, food and shopping vary
Universal Studios Japan
A popular theme park featuring attractions based on popular movies and characters. Universal Studios Japan offers thrilling rides, shows, and themed areas.
Entertainment/Adventure
Full day
8,400 JPY (1-day pass)
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. The aquarium is home to dolphins, whales, and a massive Pacific Ocean tank.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours
2,600 JPY
Shitennoji Temple
One of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples, founded in 593 AD. Shitennoji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful gardens, pagodas, and historic artifacts.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
300 JPY
Must-Try Local Dishes
Takoyaki
A popular street food made from batter filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onions. It is cooked in a special molded pan and topped with sauces and bonito flakes.
Snack
Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request
Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake made with batter, cabbage, and various ingredients like pork, seafood, or cheese. It is cooked on a griddle and topped with sauces and bonito flakes.
Main course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Kushikatsu
Deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables, typically served with a dipping sauce. Kushikatsu is a popular izakaya (Japanese pub) dish.
Snack/Appetizer
Contains meat and seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request
Ramen
A popular noodle dish made with a savory broth, noodles, and various toppings like sliced pork, green onions, and eggs. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen broths.
Main course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains surrounding Osaka
Biking along the Yodo River
Kayaking or paddleboarding in Osaka Bay
Onsen (hot spring) visits in nearby towns
Tea ceremonies in traditional tea houses
Picnicking in Osaka Castle Park or other green spaces
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional crafts and workshops
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, cherry blossoms in spring, and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the most popular times to visit with higher tourist volumes.
10-25°C (50-77°F)
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited), Chinese, Korean
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Osaka is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings and personal safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services with proper identification
- • Be cautious of strangers offering overly friendly or persistent services
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Osaka city center
- Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport) • 15 km (9 miles) from Osaka city center
By train
Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station
By bus
Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Namba
Umeda
Shin-Osaka
Tennoji
Day trips
Kyoto
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is known for its numerous temples, shrines, and historic sites. The city offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.
Nara
40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day
Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is known for its historic temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature.
Kobe
30 km (19 miles) • Full day
Kobe, a port city on Japan's western coast, is known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and delicious beef. The city offers a mix of historic sites, modern attractions, and scenic views.
Festivals
Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15 (main festival), various dates throughout the year
Osaka Asian Film Festival • March (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Try local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu at street food stalls and markets
- Use IC cards like Suica or ICOCA for convenient and cashless payments on public transportation
- Visit popular attractions like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds
- Explore lesser-known neighborhoods and attractions for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience
$90
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
