Debarkation 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 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 Osaka Kita (north) area, business center, home to skyscrapers, a hotel, restaurants and shops.
You'll 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. Erected on two raised platforms atop a tall stone foundation to protect the ruler from sword-wielding samurai, the Castle grounds cover 15 acres and contain 13 structures. Renowned for its gardens, most notably 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 with gold. Walk up to the top of the Castle to the observation deck and enjoy 360-degree views of the city. Your tour will then wind its way to the exhibition, which features valuable historical materials from 1570 to 1600.
Your next destination is the Sumiyoshi Shrine. Founded in 211, it enshrines three gods that are 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.
Then transfer to the Kansai airport (KIX).
Please note: This tour contains a lot of 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, and congestion is expected.
Motorcoach parking lot at Osaka Castle is approximately a 15- to 20-minute walk from the castle. We suggest you carry local currency. Tour order may vary. Some parts of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine are under construction and covered.
Wear low-heeled, comfortable walking shoes. Passengers with wheelchairs are reminded that a few steps are required to board the coach and that wheelchairs will be stored in the boot of the coach (fold-up wheelchair). The coach cannot accommodate electric scooter. Tour ends at Kansai airport. This tour may be offered on the day of disembarkation to passengers with late flights after 4:00pm from Kansai airport. 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.