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Shitennoji

Shitennoji: Our most recommended tours and activities

Osaka: Five Must-See Highlights Walking Tour & Ramen Lunch

1. Osaka: Five Must-See Highlights Walking Tour & Ramen Lunch

Osaka has many defferent names, such as the city of foods, the city of marchants, the city of comedy, the city where the Sengoku period ended . It means she is very diverse, tolerant , the people there are so entertained and adventurous. That is reason why so many foreigners are fascinated by her. Well, Let’s start the walking tour with us to find the real Osaka at a walking pace, from the perspective of a walker. We shall visit Osaka's 5 Must-See Sights with expierianced local English guide; (1) Osaka Castle Museum : Many highlights such as cultural asset exhibitions and the restored golden tea room. (2)Dotonbori : One of the principal tourist destinations in Osaka, check "Running Man" above Ebisbashi bridge ! (3)Kuromon Market : A covered public market that dates back to Edo period. Enjoy streetfoods ! (4)Tsutenkaku Tower : Osaka’s symbolic tower. The statue of the good luck god Billiken is on the tower's top observatory. (5)Shitennoji Temple : One of the Japan's oldest Budist temples, the first ever to be built by the state. Also try very tasty Ramen for lunch !

Osaka: Hotspots & Hidden Gems Private or Group Tour

2. Osaka: Hotspots & Hidden Gems Private or Group Tour

You will get an insightful understanding of everyday Japanese customs, including topics that other local guides may not be comfortable letting visitors know about, so please ask me any questions (our guides are super open-minded and present Osaka for what it is: the good, the bad and everything in between) First you'll slip through the non-touristy hidden maze of bar/restaurant zones in central Osaka, and even get a short glimpse of a Yakuza clubhouse (it’s safe and we’ll just walk past it). After check out the traditional Kuromon Ichiba Market seafood market where top chefs continue to shop at everyday. We’ll contrast that by ducking into quiet cobblestoned back alleys to uncover a mystic temple and its centuries-old unique history, while passing boutique eateries and hidden shops. Be prepared for a sensory overload as we navigate wacky larger-than-life billboards highlighting modern Japanese culture. You’ll get to hear plenty of interesting stories about Osaka while we amble down the central downtown Dotonbori river....and get some fantastic photo opportunities. The America town further down the road provides a curious insight of what Japanese people think what America is hahaha. The retro town of Shinsekai is just as intriguing with its mix of crazy fishing restaurants to its ancient Japanese gaming palors...it provides a lot of nostalgia! You’ll be dazzled by the retrograde neon all over the city and the exciting nightlife that Osaka is so famous for. This tour is known for exposing the contrasting faces of Osaka! Note: You will go to all the above places mentioned on the 3hr tour Note: On the 4hr tour we will visit all of the above plus 3 extra places: a knife shop (a private demonstation given), go down a plethora of off the beaten paths full of authentic restaurant alleys, full coverage of the Dotonbori River area with more of a deeper insight to Osaka local life. Note: Osaka Castle will not be visited on this tour (as it take over an 2hr just to view this 12 acre land that Osaka Castle is built on. I hope our tour is more than memorable!:)

Osaka: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour by Private Vehicle

3. Osaka: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour by Private Vehicle

Discover how Osaka has centuries more history than Tokyo and a merchant culture that still strongly resonates today on this full-day guided tour by private vehicle.  First stop is a visit to the Osaka Castle, where you will explore the grounds and enjoy the view of the castle’s exterior. Then, visit what is said to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, Shitennoji.  Next, head to Shin-sekai. A short stroll around the area will show you typical foods, games, and Osaka's famously bad fashion sense. After lunch, visit the Harukas building to admire views across the city as you soar up a glass elevator. At the basement of this tall building is a local marketplace with some of the finest foods on display, such as Kobe beef and high end sushi.  You will then explore Dotonbori, sometimes compared to New York's Times Square. Explore the side streets and hear interesting stories from your guide. Finally, visit the market of Kuromon Ichiba, where there's a deep history and unique vibe.

Osaka: Spectacular Takigi Noh in Shitennoji Temple

4. Osaka: Spectacular Takigi Noh in Shitennoji Temple

Takigi Noh (Firelight Noh) refers to Noh performed on a temporary stage outdoors surrounded by burning flares. Special Takigi Noh performances will be held in Shitennoji Temple built by Prince Shotoku in 593, Osaka on October 14 and 15, 2023. Takigi Noh will be performed specially with projection mapping on Five-storied Pagoda and Golden Pavilion. Enjoy a fantastic, vision-like spectacle on this special occasion. Oct. 14, Sat. 18:30-20:40 1) Buddhist Service of Shitennoji Temple 2) Newly-created Noh "Kiriaoi" 3) Tennoji Bugaku "Somakusha" 4) Half Noh "Shakkyo - special variant performance" Oct. 15, Sun. 18:30-20:40 1) Buddhist Service of Shitennoji Temple 2) Newly-created Noh "Kiriaoi" 3) Tennoji Bugaku "Somakusha" 4) Half Noh "Tsuchigumo - special variant performance" Organized by The Ohtsuki Noh Theatre Foundation Co-organized by Grand Head Temple SHITENNOJI Temple Under the auspices of Osaka City, and Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau Assisted by The Yomiuri Shimbun

4 hours Osaka Half-Day Drive Cruising City Tour. (1 pax up)

5. 4 hours Osaka Half-Day Drive Cruising City Tour. (1 pax up)

Cruise along in our comfortable coach to visit Osaka’s popular sightseeing spots on this half-day city cruise with the driver only. Within this half day service, guests will be able to experience Japan’s culture and visit Osaka’s popular sightseeing spots and landmarks. From this service, guests will also gain ideas and information on the attractions which will be useful if they like to explore the city in more depth later. This is a comfortable service which is suitable especially for both elderly and young children as not much walking is required. Along the rides, Cherry Tomato coach will pass by many beautiful spots for guests to enjoy the scenery. The driver will pick you up right from your hotel in Osaka City, and you don’t have to worry about taking a crowded train to the meeting point. Actual pick-up time will be informed on your mobile or at your hotel's front desk. We specially designed the tour starts from 10.00 am as it’s not too early nor too late for guests to enjoy this city tour. • The first stop of itinerary will be at Osaka Castle for 10 minutes. Guests can take pictures of the Osaka Castle Tower as its elegant and majestic appearance remains picture-perfect from every angle. • Visit Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Garden (30 minutes free and easy time), a lush garden which features a tea house and around 600 cherry trees in full bloom during spring. The garden also offers magnificent views of the castle. • Visit Shitennoji Temple, Japan’s oldest official temple (30 minutes free and easy time). The highlights of the temple are its five-story pagoda, ponds full of turtles and its unique symmetrical architectural style. • Head to Shinsekai Tsutenkaku area (30 minutes free and easy time), a retro downtown area which reflects the local Osaka Culture. The area is surrounded with shopping and dining streets which offer Osaka best known specialties, ‘Kushikatsu’, a deep-fried breaded skewered meat, seafood and vegetables. Also do not miss out on taking pictures and view the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, the symbol of Osaka. • Tour ends at Dotonbori Shopping Arcade. You have your own free time to visit the colourful shops including pachinkos, karaoke, drug stores, boutiques, souvenirs shops and restaurants that cater to all kinds of demand. Dotonbori is full of energy and delight and the whole street is like a theme park filled with giant billboards and colourful decorations.

Osaka: Photo Shoot with a Private Vacation Photographer

6. Osaka: Photo Shoot with a Private Vacation Photographer

Remember your vacation in Osaka with these photos captured by your personal photographer. Take part in a photo shoot that will capture you at your best, choose the best shoot duration for your vacation, and benefit from your photographer's in-depth local knowledge of the island. On the day of the shoot, your photographer will share their local knowledge and work their magic to capture some memorable moments. Choose custom locations in Osaka for your photo shoot, whether you're on a family getaway, a romantic trip, or a lively holiday with friends. Depending on the option you choose, enjoy 1-3 hours of photo shooting and explore up to 3 locations on the island. Within the 5 working days following your photoshoot, you will receive your edited photos. Download your professionally-edited images to share with friends, family, and social media.

Other Sightseeing Options in Shitennoji

Want to discover all there is to do in Shitennoji? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Shitennoji

Overall rating

3.9 / 5

based on 179 reviews

We had a such a great time on this full day Osaka tour. Kevin was really great and friendly and such a knowledgeable English speaking guide. He knows everything there is to know about Osaka and Japan. The day was very well planned and having a car made the day so much more relaxing and effortlessly fun! Communication before the tour was also great, we knew before our trip started we were in good hands! He even showed us parts of Osaka we wouldn’t have on our own, just like a local. Very worthwhile if visiting Osaka. Can’t wait to come back again some day!

The tour was excellent. It was pleasant and very informative that, time (5 hours) flew by so fast. Andrew was right on time. He is amazingly knowledgeable, well mannered and cultured. The tour was relaxed yet professional. I would strongly recommend this company and will likely use them again.

Levi, our tour guide is excellent. He knows very well the history of Japan. Very friendly, accommodating and helpful. He is full of vibrant and very passionate with his work. This tour is worth every penny.

Great experience to. Explore every things new in city tour of Osaka had a dream city tour with my guide & cover almost each & every sport in day tour from 9 am till 5.30 pm evening .