Top Experiences in Abeno Harukas (Osaka Harukas)

This is your tour if you demand a private tour with both the big sights as well as a walk on the local side. Plus, since Osaka is "Japan's Kitchen", food will be ever-present, both delightfully downmarket and astoundingly upmarket at times.

In the "top sights" category, no trip to Osaka would be complete with a stop at Osaka Castle, but after that, we dig a little deeper into the neighborhoods. We finish off with another top sight though, this time the famous Dotonbori, but we don't leave too much time to spend there, as we assume you will browse about the area on your own.

Your guide will be a native or near-native English speaker (or other language, if that option is selected) who also speaks Japanese, guaranteed. And since this is a private tour, we're happy to make modifications based on your specific interests (additional expenses should be covered by our guests).

Bonus for families: First kid free!

Kickstart your Osaka adventure with this tour featured on Channel 5 British TV in 2023 on the hugely popular series "Jane McDonald In Japan", chosen for its "genuine, quirky & unfiltered snapshot of Osaka".

Your local insider guide will pair every location with personal stories & historical info with quirky facts and a great dose of enthusiasm & humour:)

You get to choose from private totally customized tours OR group tours (mixed with other guests).

Slip through the non-touristy bar/restaurant zones of Namba: hole in the wall establishments, as well as Kuromon seafood markets.

Also the retro district will share its charm with wacky game palors & friendly street vendors while the Dotonbori will provide the a sensory overload with all its billboards.

Osaka Castle will showcase it's immense role in the unification of Japan in 16th century (only 4hr or 5hr tour)

After, explore hidden cobblestone alleys uncovering a centuries old collection of stores crafting their unique designs.

Looking for a full-day, private vehicle tour that covers top spots with a fun, knowledgeable, and truly fluent English speaker? You've found it. We show you Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Shin-sekai, a view from high above, and more! Plus, get some local insight and interesting commentary at some of our other recommended stops. All of this at your pace, with your own personal driver/guide, and high quality vehicle service. Your guide is *guaranteed* to be a native English speaker or honest equivalent.

“Harukas” is an old Japanese expression meaning “to brighten, to clear up.” As its namesake suggests, ABENO HARUKAS embodies the exhilation of clear, sweeping views of Osaka from its top floor 300 meters in the air. The complex’s wide array of facilities and amenities answer every need, promising every visitor a relaxing time in a bright, comfortable environment.

Immerse yourself in Osaka's captivating blend of charm and history on a guided walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Begin at Osaka Castle Park, marveling at the majestic Osaka Castle and delving into the city's rich history. Journey to Tsuruhashi's Korea Town via a brief train ride, exploring its labyrinthine alleys and pre-war commercial district. Next, experience modernity at the Harukas building, enjoying panoramic views and exquisite culinary offerings at its food hall. Explore the time-honored district of Shin-Sekai before heading to Namba, Osaka's nucleus of contemporary shopping, dining, and entertainment. Traverse Dotonbori's vibrant streets and visit the historic Kuromon Ichiba fish market. Conclude the tour in Doguyasuji, an enclave devoted to kitchens and culinary arts, admiring wax food models and traditional Japanese "noren". Experience the diverse facets of Osaka in this captivating journey.

Spend the day with one of our hosts to discover the true nature of Osaka - head’s up, it’s got a wild sense of humor and is obsessed with food. Explorer (not tourist) is what we’re aiming for here, and in that spirit, you could explore neighborhoods.

Both Japanese and foreign tourists like to collect goshuins at temples and shrines. So, I will help you to take 4 - 7 goshuins during this tour.

First of all, we visit Harukas Garden of Abeno Harukas. It's located on the 16th floor of Abeno Harukas without entrance fee. Please check the pictures of Harukas Garden.

Next, we visit Horikoshi Shrine and Shitennoji Temple which were established by Prince Shotoku in 593. At Shitennoji you can walk up to the top of 5-story pagoda.

We also visit the temples and shrines below around Tennoji Park. You will be able to get 4-7 goshuins at the following places:

1. Horikoshi Shrine - stamp goshuin
2. Shitennoji Temple - handwriting goshuin
3. Oe Shrine - handwriting goshuin
4. Kiyomizu Temple (Osaka) - 2 handwriting goshuins
5. Yasui Shrine - stamp goshuin
6. Isshinji Temple - handwriting goshuin

Please note that if the staff is not in the office at shrines or temples, you cannot take a goshuin. But you will be able to get at least 4 goshuins.

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