Osaka Castle & Sumiyoshi Shrine with Transfer to Osaka's Kansai Airport (KIX)
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Port
Kobe, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$250
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Set out on an excursion through Osaka -- Japan's third-largest city. Along the way, your guide will point out the many modern structures that coexist with ancient temples and shrines.
Your journey will take you past the newly developed Osaka Business Park -- home to skyscrapers, a hotel, a concert hall, restaurants, shops and a museum. Another 21st-century addition is Namba City. This is Osaka's most famous shopping and entertainment district, with more than 300 shops and restaurants.
Continue to Osaka's most famous landmark -- Osaka Castle. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the political factions of Japan, began construction on the castle in 1582. It was built on two raised platforms atop a tall stone foundation -- far from the reach of sword-wielding samurai. The castle grounds cover 15 acres and contain 13 structures. Renowned for its gardens -- most notably its 600 cherry trees -- the castle is the site of an annual cherry blossom festival. As you approach the castle, note that the dolphins, roof tiles, and reliefs carved in the shape of tigers are all gilded. Walk up to the top of the castle to the observation deck and enjoy the 360-degree views of the city. The castle museum features valuable historical materials from 1570 to 1600.
Your next destination is the Sumiyoshi Shrine. Founded in 211, it enshrines three gods believed to offer protection for travelers, sailors and fishermen. A graceful, arched bridge spans a pond, while the path leading to the main building is lined with stone lanterns donated by sailors and ship owners.
Finally, transfer to Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX) in time for your flight.
Please note:
This tour is available only to guests whose cruise ends in Osaka, with flights departing after 4.30pm from Kansai Airport. Tour requires considerable walking at Osaka Castle. Photography and video are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd and 4th floors). An elevator is available at the castle; however, the elevator does not provide access to the observatory on the upper level (8th floor). There is only one elevator available; congestion is expected. The motorcoach parking lot at Osaka Castle is approximately 15-20 minutes' walk from the castle. Terrain includes inclines, steps and uneven surfaces. Bring local currency, as some vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Tour sequence may vary. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Participants must be able to board the coach via a few steep steps. Collapsible wheelchairs can stored in the luggage compartment of the coach. The coach cannot accommodate electric scooters.