Disembarkation Tour: Osaka Castle & Sumiyoshi Shrine
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Port
Osaka, 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)
$190
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Your adventure begins as you board your motorcoach and set out on a panoramic drive 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 Osaka Kita (north) area, business center, home to skyscrapers, a hotel, restaurants and shops.
Continue on to Osaka's most famous landmark — Osaka Castle. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the political factions of Japan, began construction on the castle in 1583. The castle grounds cover 260 acres and contain 13 structures and approx. 3000 cherry trees. Note the gilded dolphins, roof tiles, and reliefs as you approach. Walk up to the Castle and head to the observation deck for 360-degree views of the city. Check out the exhibition featuring historical items from 1570 to 1600.
Next, head to the Sumiyoshi Shrine. Founded in AD 211, it enshrines four gods believed to offer protection for travelers, sailors, and fishermen. A gracefully arched bridge spans a pond, while the path leading to the main building is lined with stone lanterns donated by sailors and ship owners.
Your tour ends with a transfer to Osaka's Kansai Airport (KIX).
Please note: This tour is available only to guests whose cruise ends in Osaka, with flights departing after 4pm. Tour requires considerable walking at Osaka Castle plus a 15- to 20-minute walk from the coach parking area to the 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; expect delays. Some parts of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine are under construction and may be obscured. Bring local currency, as most vendors do not accept US dollars or credit cards. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Participants must be able to climb a few steps unassisted to board the transportation. Collapsible wheelchairs can be stored in the coach luggage area. Electric wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on the transportation. Tour sequence may vary. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.