
Sample cuisine, visit markets, explore Osaka's tech hub, and end off the experience in the electric district where there is still so much to do
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
This experience is for you if you want to experience the lively energy of Dotonbori, try Takoyaki, visit local markets and witness the dynamic fusion of culture and creativity in one of the most iconic cities I've ever visited.
Let’s be more specific. You’ll start in Dotonbori, it's a culinary paradise that caters to all tastes. You’ll struggle to not get drawn into the delicious eateries and street food stalls and all their wonderful flavors, sights and smells. Don't fight it, let your host show you the best of the best around here. I do want you to save some time though to visit the Glico Running Man and Kani Doraki Crab, these landmarks will not leave you disappointed. If you have time and a taste for heights I really recommend the birds eye view from the top of the giant Dotonbori Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel.
After this you are off to Shinsaibashi-Suji Street, a bustling hub of activity. The atmosphere alone makes it a must visit but the extensive selection of boutiques and entertainment options means you won't be short of things to do, see or hear about. The energy of this place is enchanting and your host will bring its stories to life.
Your last stop was popular with tourists and locals alike, now you’re off to something a little more traditional. Stalls and vendors line the narrow lanes of Kuromon Market, local specialities are sold in abundance and your host will make sure you get the best of what's on offer. It will feel like a world away from the prior stop, but in fact it's only a short 10 minute walk. Which is an experience in itself, I can tell you.
Nipponbashi Denden Town is the next destination. Here you will find a wide range of electronics stores, anime and manga shops, video game stores, cosplay supplies, and maid cafes. Yes you heard that right, visit a maid cafe if you wish! Take in the shops but I really recommend you spend some time with the antique shops, secondhand and recycling shops. Ideal for keepsake and souvenir buying or some of the most interesting photos you will ever take.
The time has come for the last of the main stops along this experience. Shinsekai, known for its retro ambiance, features narrow streets, vibrant signs and traditional eateries. It's a real mesh of culture and timelines. There is a lot to do here so don't think you are finished just yet.
Try some kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) from the local eateries, they are delicious and help fuel your exploration! To finish off, I want you to visit the top of the Tsutenkaku Tower, the views are unforgettable! On the way back to earth, learn about Japanese Knives in Tower Knives Shop and visit the Shinsekai Inari Shrine.
At the end of your experience I hope you will agree you’ve witnessed the old and the new, the beautiful and the extraordinary - combining into what is one amazing location with so much to do.
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Excellent recommendations and very good service. If we ever needed something the restaurant didn't provide Fumiko jumped up to get it. We had great service at every restaurant picked and wonderful food, and she was understanding of our dietary needs.
Show moreFumiko was amazing. I lost count of how many great places we stoped for food & drink. Delicious! She had to take extra care with us because I have a gluten allergy and my son is allergic to shellfish, peanuts & nuts. We are so grateful to her. She is a wonderful ambassador for Osaka and City Unscripted!
Show moreWe had the most incredible day with Unscripted Tours in Osaka, and our guide Fukimo made it absolutely unforgettable! From the moment she found us because we exited the train station from the wrong sides. She's warm, friendly, and completely flexible. She even walked us back to our train at the end of the tour to make sure we didn’t get lost again. We thought we’d be walking through markets sampling a few bites here and there, but this tour was so much more. Fukimo had tables reserved for us at local restaurants where we sat down and enjoyed full meals. We tried things like whale and puffer fish and a variety of local alcohol drinks. Everything felt authentic, thoughtful, and adventurous. Fukimo shared so much about the culture and history behind the dishes. It truly felt like exploring Osaka with a knowledgeable friend who wanted to show us their version of the city. Highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants a true taste of Osaka!
Show moreWe loved Fumiko! She was very nice and so patient. We saw the castle, the longest shopping street in the world and wonderful street food.
Show moreHaruhi gave us a wonderful introduction to "Japan's Kitchen" on our recent trip to Osaka. Our afternoon was well planned offering us chances to sample several of Osaka's most interesting specialty flavors while enjoying the street scene that makes this city unique. Pace was perfectly casual.....and flexible enough for us to stop as we wished. Haruhi is an absolute delight to be with. Eat as much as or little as you like...and enjoy every morsel. We did!!!
Show moreAt a casual pace, Haruhi introduced us to a delicious variety of specialty foods as we walked thru Kuromon Market and around Namba, Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi areas. It was a great introduction to the city.
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