Laidback and liveable, Osaka is Japan’s second city and a foodie haven
Osaka, Japan's laid-back second city, offers a more relaxed experience compared to Tokyo. Known for its food scene, particularly in the vibrant Dotonbori district, it's a haven for foodies. We’ll arrange an Osaka tour by locals which will allow you to taste local delicacies, such as takoyaki octopus dumplings, okonomiyaki pancakes and kushikatsu fried skewers, all washed down with a cup of sake. Or participate in a street food safari tour, where your local guide will take you off the beaten path, introducing you to the izayaka (bars and pubs) in the backstreets of the district. Beyond food, Osaka boasts attractions like its Osaka Castle and is family-friendly with Universal Studios Japan (featuring a very popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter section). Osaka, welcoming and easy-going, provides a great entry point to Japan's diverse offerings, thanks to Japan's efficient train system. It serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby destinations like Kobe, Nara, Himeji, and the Kansai region, which includes the sacred site of Mount Koya and its vast monastery complex. No matter who you plan to travel with, our Japan travel specialists and concierge will curate a luxury package for your family, friends, and groups.
Your Luxury Osaka Custom Tours
Osaka beckons to every generation with its enchanting offerings. Whether you aim to captivate your children amidst magical parks and castles or indulge your parents in the pleasures of exquisite, traditional cuisine, this city has it all.
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Food & Art: A Two-Week Cultural Japan Itinerary
Tokyo, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kyoto, Naoshima, Osaka.
Discover MoreTwo-Week Rural Japan Explorer
Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Shikoku, Naoshima, Himeji.
Discover MoreWhen to go to Osaka
Spring is a great time to visit Osaka, when the pink and white petals of cherry blossoms can be seen fluttering on the trees and in the air, particularly around Osaka Castle. July may be hot and wet, but this month is also host to Tenjin Matsuri, one of Japan’s biggest and best festivals. Tenjin Matsuri honours the Tenmangu Shrine, and during your Osaka custom tour, you’ll see colourful processions of people and floats in the streets, culminating in a big fireworks display in the evening. You’ll also be able to see displays in August in Osaka, as part of Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival. Then, there’s the fun Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, which takes place on the third weekend in September. The festival has been likened to “the running of the bulls” but features danjiri festival floats instead of animals. A word of warning – this festival is not for the faint-hearted!
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