Osaka: Shitennoji Temple & Dotonbori — Guide Yuki

What Is a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

This was a day trip to Osaka from Kyoto. The guests walked quickly, and although I had expected we would need extra time at Osaka Castle, we were able to return earlier than planned. The market at Shitennoji Temple was being held through today, and since the guests enjoy browsing flea markets, they had a wonderful time. They mentioned they have twin grandchildren, and they bought two kokeshi dolls for them. They also took a liking to the turtles at Shitennoji Temple and bought a turtle-shaped paperweight. Admission to the temple halls was free, and they watched the ancestral memorial services and the monks chanting sutras with great interest. They also received a goshuin stamp. They enjoyed a nearby okonomiyaki restaurant as well. The guests blended right into the atmosphere of the old downtown area. At Kuromon Market, they said they wanted to try fugu (pufferfish), and asked the chef several times whether they might be poisoned. After hearing that no one has ever died from the poison there, they ate it with peace of mind. Dotonbori was especially crowded today, and in front of the Glico sign some visitors were singing and dancing, which they filmed on video as well. They seemed to want to avoid the crowds at Osaka Castle, so they looked around each floor briefly, took photos around the area, and listened to a taiko drum performance near the Otemon Gate. After the performance, one of the performers mentioned that gathering many likes on Instagram could lead to appearing at the Osaka EXPO, so the guests were happy to help out. We returned to Osaka Station a little earlier than expected, and the guests said they would relax over some coffee before heading back to Kyoto, so we parted ways at the station.

Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

Tour Report by Yuki

Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.