osaka japan walking tour

Suggested Osaka Full Day Walk

The following is a full-day walking itinerary that explores some lesser-known sites of Osaka which are traditionally frequented by the locals. It covers about four kilometers.

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Best of Osaka Walking Tour

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• Important Details

Discover the vibrant life of Osaka with our Best of Osaka Walking Tour . Go on a journey that blends tradition, history, and architecture. See 360-degree views from the Floating Garden Observatory. Look out over the city and take in the sights of Awaji Island and Mt. Ikoma. After your boat ride along the Ogawa River, head to the grand Osaka Castle. This beautiful structure – dating back to the 16th century – will leave you breathless. See where the past meets the present and enjoy every moment of this stunning city.

For curious travelers who love to explore, our Best of Osaka Walking Tour is a great way to experience Osaka. Go on a journey that ties culture and history while enjoying smooth, hassle-free transportation. Book your Osaka tour today!

Best of Osaka Walking Tour Highlights

• Take in panoramic views from the Floating Garden Observatory
• Cruise along the Ogawa River on an unforgettable boat ride
• Marvel at Osaka Castle, dating back to the 16th century
• Enjoy smooth, fast, and hassle-free transportation along the way

Best of Osaka Walking Tour Itinerary

If you have any questions about our Best of Osaka Walking Tour, please contact us. Our team is standing by and will be happy to help

Dates marked below in green are still available for booking. Clicking on a date will start your booking process.

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Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour (Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonburi)

• Osaka , Tour Reviews , Walking Tours

The Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of this vibrant city, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks .

Led by a bilingual, expat guide , you will discover the historic Osaka Castle and its surroundings, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Dotonbori, and experience the retro energy of the Shinsekai district.

This five-hour tour offers insights into Osaka’s rich history and culture , highlighting areas that played a significant role in its merchant past.

From the bustling Kuromon market to the preserved alleyway of Hozenji Yokocho, you will have the chance to indulge in delicious Osakan street food and discover quirky facts along the way.

With free cancellation available and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Quick Takeaways

• The Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour includes a visit to Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Kuromon market, and Shinsekai district.
• The tour is led by a bilingual, expat guide who provides a unique perspective of Osaka’s history and culture .
• Participants will have the opportunity to explore areas that played a significant role in Osaka’s merchant past.
• The tour includes quirky facts, suggestions of great local eateries and shops, and one non-alcoholic beverage and Osakan street food.

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Activity Details: Free Cancellation, Duration, Availability, Tour Guide

The activity details of the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour include:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Duration of 5 hours
• Availability for different starting times
• A live tour guide in English and Japanese

With the free cancellation policy, participants have the flexibility to change their plans without any financial loss.

The 5-hour duration allows for a comprehensive exploration of Osaka’s key landmarks and neighborhoods.

The tour is available at various starting times to accommodate different schedules.

The presence of a bilingual tour guide ensures that participants can fully understand and appreciate the sights and history of Osaka. Whether they speak English or Japanese, the guide will be able to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the tour.

Experience: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Shinsekai, Osaka’s Merchant Past

Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Shinsekai, and Osaka’s merchant past offer a diverse and enriching experience for visitors exploring the vibrant city. Here are four key highlights of this experience:

• Osaka Castle history: Visitors can explore the rich history of Osaka Castle, which served as a symbol of the city’s history and the unification of Japan. They can explore the castle grounds, admire its impressive architecture, and learn about its significance in shaping the region.
• Shinsekai nostalgia : The retro energy of Shinsekai district takes visitors back in time, showcasing Osaka’s local colors. From its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower to its nostalgic streets filled with traditional shops and eateries, Shinsekai offers a nostalgic glimpse into Osaka’s past.
• Dotonbori: Known as the neon heart of Osaka, Dotonbori is a must-visit destination for vibrant nightlife and delicious street food. Visitors can stroll along the bustling streets , marvel at the iconic Glico Running Man sign, and indulge in local delicacies like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
• Kuromon Market: As the heart of Osaka’s kitchen, Kuromon Market is a food lover’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, sample fresh seafood and produce, and explore the many stalls offering a wide variety of culinary delights.

Exploring these attractions and delving into Osaka’s merchant past will provide visitors with a well-rounded experience that showcases the city’s history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights: Osaka Castle, Namba and Dotonbori, Hozenji Yokocho, Kuromon Market, Shinsekai District

Exploring the vibrant city of Osaka, visitors can enjoy the highlights of the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour, including experiencing the rich history of Osaka Castle, indulging in the vibrant nightlife of Namba and Dotonbori, exploring the preserved alleyway of Hozenji Yokocho, savoring the culinary delights of Kuromon Market, and embracing the nostalgic charm of the Shinsekai district.

During the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour, visitors can explore Osaka’s vibrant nightlife, discover the hidden gems of Hozenji Yokocho, and enjoy the unique cultural experiences that each highlight offers.

Inclusions: Local Guide, Quirky Facts, Local Eateries, Transportation, Non-Alcoholic Beverage

During the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour, you will receive a local guide who’ll provide a unique perspective of the city, along with quirky facts, suggestions of great local eateries and shops to try after the tour, transportation costs covered , and a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage.

This inclusion ensures that participants have a comprehensive and immersive experience of Osaka’s local culture and hidden gems. The local guide will share their knowledge and insights about the city’s history and culture, offering a deeper understanding of Osaka’s past and present.

Along the way, you will also be treated to quirky facts that add a touch of fun and entertainment to the tour. After the tour, the guide will recommend local eateries and shops, allowing participants to continue exploring and enjoying the vibrant culinary and shopping scene of Osaka.

Plus, transportation costs are covered, making it convenient for participants to navigate the city. Finally, a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage will be provided to keep participants hydrated and refreshed throughout the tour.

Logistics: Participants, Availability, Meeting Point, Important Information, Rain or Shine

Participants of the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour will need to be aware of several logistical details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. First, participants can be selected for the activity by checking availability for the desired date. The meeting point is at JR Osakajokoen Station outside of the ticket gates, where a live tour guide will be waiting. It is important to note that participants should wear comfortable shoes and avoid bringing luggage or large bags. The tour will take place rain or shine, so participants should come prepared for any weather conditions . With these logistics in mind, participants can look forward to exploring Osaka’s iconic landmarks and experiencing the city’s vibrant culture and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour?

The ultimate Osaka walking tour does not have a minimum number of required participants . The tour size can vary depending on the number of people who book, allowing for flexibility in group sizes.

Can I Bring My Luggage or Large Bags on the Tour?

Participants are not allowed to bring luggage or large bags on the tour. Baggage restrictions are in place to ensure the comfort and safety of all participants during the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour.

What Kind of Non-Alcoholic Beverage Is Included in the Tour?

The tour includes a non-alcoholic beverage, with options such as refreshing teas, fruity mocktails , or traditional Japanese drinks. For the best non-alcoholic drinks in Osaka, the tour guide can suggest local eateries and shops to try after the tour.

Is the Transportation Cost Covered for the Entire Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the transportation cost is covered for the entire duration of the tour. There is a minimum number of participants required. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and to avoid bringing luggage or large bags. The tour includes a non-alcoholic beverage and recommendations for local eateries and shops.

Are There Any Specific Recommendations for Comfortable Shoes to Wear During the Tour?

Comfortable shoes for the tour are recommended to ensure a pleasant walking experience. Participants should wear footwear suitable for walking long distances, with good support and cushioning for comfort throughout the tour.

To sum it up, the Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour offers a comprehensive experience of the vibrant and historic city. Led by a bilingual guide, participants can explore iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle, enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Dotonbori and Kuromon markets, and soak up the retro energy of the Shinsekai district.

With free cancellation and flexible payment options, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to discover the rich history and culture of Osaka.

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Private Osaka Walking Tour

Private osaka walking tour.

This Osaka half-day tour includes the Castle and Dotonbori, with all sorts of local in between.

Discover the Best of Osaka on a Half-Day Walking Tour

Join us for an immersive Osaka half-day tour combining the city’s famous sights and lesser-known treasures. Our private Osaka walking tour is designed for an intimate exploration of the city, taking you on foot and via public transit to places inaccessible by car.

Our journey includes a must-do Osaka Castle walking tour, where you’ll discover the history and significance of this iconic landmark. We also wander through the vibrant Namba and Dotonbori areas, known for their lively atmosphere. But our tour goes beyond the usual, venturing into quaint old neighborhoods, offering panoramic views from elevated spots, and exploring bustling local markets.

Accompanied by a native or near-native English-speaking guide (or a guide in your preferred language), this four-hour private tour is enriched with fascinating insights and cultural anecdotes. Learn about the distinct lifestyle in Osaka and how it contrasts with other Japanese cities like Kyoto and Tokyo.

Osaka’s residents are known for their vibrant personalities and unique fashion sense, adding a colorful backdrop to your tour. Known for their friendliness and outgoing nature, Osakans offer a warm welcome distinctly different from the more reserved Tokyoites. Our tour showcases Osaka’s landmarks and introduces you to the city’s lively culture and people. Join us to experience the true essence of Osaka.

You might also be interested in our Full-Day Osaka Castle Tour and Beyond by car, taking you farther afield throughout Osaka and its surroundings. We also highly recommend you join us in the evening for an Osaka Foodie Tour to tickle your tastebuds and enjoy tachinomi-style dining like a local.

On the Private Tour, enjoy flat rate pricing up to 8 guests. For shared tours, enjoy free or discounted child (<18) pricing!

Pinpoint Traveler  has an average score of  4.7⭐ across over  500  reviews on  multiple review sites . Below is a sampling of some of our most recent reviews for our Osaka Walking Tour

Historic Landmarks

Osaka Castle is the city’s best-known historic landmark. Beyond that, we leave history behind and dive into Osaka’s unique culture.

Professional Guide

Real English, real skills, and great personalities. Our guides have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with interesting, fun, and memorable tours.

Fully-Narrated Tour

Our tours never leave you to wander about on your own. Your guide stays with you the whole time to answer questions, offer lots of local insights, and make ensure good times.

Easy Access

This tour starts just outside Tanimachi 4-chome subway station, making meeting up an anxiety-free experience. Exact meeting spot provided after booking.

Explore Osaka’s Hidden Layers on Our Half-Day Walking Tour

Embark on our Osaka half-day tour and uncover the city’s multifaceted stories, especially those beyond the striking presence of Osaka Castle. While the castle’s grandeur is immediately apparent, its true intrigue lies in the tales of Osaka’s changing fortunes, its historical significance, and its reconstruction in the 1920s.

A Deep Dive into Osaka’s Unique Culture

Kyoto has heritage and a landscape untouched by World War II. Tokyo has a giant hustle-bustle and is all very international. It’s also very cosmopolitan in the sense that Japanese from all points in Japan flock there by choice or company edict. Osaka, however, is largely a purebred civilization that beats to its own tune. We want to share this with you once we finish our Osaka Castle walking tour and leave the past behind.

One highlight is Osaka’s vibrant Koreatown, the largest Korean community in Japan. We guide you through this lively neighborhood, offering a safe and authentic glimpse into its cultural richness. This part of the tour reveals the diversity and inclusivity that define Osaka’s urban landscape.

A Journey Through Contrasting Facets of Osaka

Prepare for a dynamic journey across Osaka’s contrasting scenes—from the grittiness of historic districts to the glamor of modern developments and from the tranquility of panoramic views to the lively buzz of unique entertainment zones. Our Osaka walking tour offers an array of experiences, providing insights into the city’s past and present.

As this is a small group tour, we provide a personalized experience, ready to answer all your questions and tailor the journey to your interests. Join us to truly understand and appreciate Osaka’s vibrant culture and hidden gems.

If you have any questions, please get in touch .

Osaka Half-Day Walking Tour Itinerary

Of course, we begin our day with an Osaka Castle walking tour; it’s arguably the most iconic spot of great historical significance in Osaka. We’ll traverse the park grounds, too, all the while talking about the history, architecture, and significance of the spot. Since the historically indifferent, rebuilt interior of the castle is rather disappointing, we recommend giving that a miss. Trust us. We spend about 75 minutes here.

When most Japanese think of this Koreatown, they think of yakiniku (meat you grill at the table), but we’ll take you down the rabbit hole. Tsuruhashi is a maze of tiny stores, food stalls, and restaurants; it’s an architecturally striking jumble.

Tennoji is the area where the super tall building known as Harukas can be found. This being the tallest non-tower building in Japan (300m), there are views aplenty. (We in Osaka have heard there is some tower with a height of biblical proportions in Tokyo, but we’re not so interested.) We won’t go up to the top of Harukas, but we go high enough to enjoy a breathtaking view of Osaka for free. On a good day, we can see all the way to Kobe and beyond. We highly suggest a guided walkthrough of the department store food hall. We usually spend about half an hour here.

Fun for all ages! In an odd sort of reality-independent way, this is a must-see while in Osaka. Games, food, fashion (perhaps heavily skewed toward the eye of the beholder), and that generally unmistakable Osaka vibe. No one forgets a visit to Shin-Sekai. We typically spend about 30 minutes here.

Most likely, you will be spending time walking around this area on your own, so on our Osaka walking tour we generally only spend around 30 minutes here. However, if you have a keen interest in seeing the Kuromon Market, which, albeit touristy, has a dazzling selection of high-end foodie happiness, we would be happy to oblige. Or there’s Doguyasuji, our restaurant supply district, which, aside from wax food models and giant pots, has lots of goods catering to regular folks too. If you’re in the market for one of the region’s famous kitchen knives, this is a good spot. A plethora of Japanese ceramics, teacups, chopsticks, and the like are also in full force here. Otherwise, we’ll take you through some backstreets around Hozenji Yokocho, and then on to Dotonbori itself.

Quick Tips for Our Half Day Osaka Tour

There are a couple of things we’d like you to take note of before joining us.

• Please come wearing comfortable shoes. We do a fair bit of walking around Osaka. For those who wish to avoid too much walking, please let us know in advance and we will modify the itinerary to suit your requirements.
• You should buy a day pass for the subway (in Japanese, 大阪メトロ一日乗車券). It will make things easier and more economical over the course of the day. Also, if you have a Japan Rail pass, bring that along too for the one ride we take on JR.

Inclusions:

• All guide costs

Exclusions:

• Your transportation (figure between 600 yen and 930 yen per person)
• Food and drinks. We don’t make a restaurant stop, but there will be chances to buy food along the way if you like
• Pickup can be arranged by request. This means we will gather you about 30 minutes before the tour start (we’ll confirm the timing based on your location). The fees below do not include your transportation cost, but that will most likely be covered by your subway day ticket anyway. Prices are for the entire group.
• Within central Osaka (along or within the JR Loop Line): 4,000 yen
• North of the Yodogawa River, but still in Osaka city (this includes Shin-Osaka area): 5,000 yen
• Port of Osaka, Hyatt, or Universal Studios area pickups: 6,000 yen
• Extensions are available at 4,000 yen/hr. Please inquire.

Historic and Cultural Landmarks

Osaka Castle is the city’s best-known historic landmark. Even if the structure itself is post-war reconstruction, the exterior is true to form, and visiting the spacious grounds adds even more to the appeal. As our day progresses, the landmarks become more a blend of the historical and cultural, with Tsuruhashi Koreatown and then Shin-Sekai, the entertainment district, which, although semi-modernized, has roots in the early 20th century.

If you are arriving by subway, since it’s a fairly sprawling station, please allow 10 minutes at Tanimachi 4-Chome to find the right exit. Our meeting spot is at exit 2 at street level. If you are taking a taxi to the start point, please instruct the driver to take you to Tanimachi 5-Chome intersection, SE corner (谷５交差点の南東角).

Our Tour Guides

We've got around a dozen guides at your service. Here we showcase a few of our most active ones.

Not profiled here are guides who speak Spanish (Kyoto, in addition to Dan in Osaka), French (Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo), and German (Kyoto and Tokyo).

Pickup Point

We start at the Tanimachi 4-Chome subway station, just a few minutes' walk from Osaka Castle. A hotel pickup option is available at checkout.

  > News > Article  

• Mar 13, 2020

Osaka Walking Itinerary: Explore Osaka, Japan in 1 Day

Want to create your own Osaka walking itinerary? If you are planning to explore Osaka for a day or at your own pace, doing a self-guided walking tour is the best option to get lost in the city.

While you can explore Osaka on a day, we highly recommend spending a couple of days to really enjoy what the city has to offer. If that’s not an option, don’t worry — we’re here to help you out.

Here’s a sample Osaka 1-day walking itinerary where you will be spending some time in the districts of Kita and Minami:

9 am // Osaka Castle

From JR Osaka Station, take the Osaka Loop Line to Osakajokoen Station. After exploring the castle and park premises, take the Osaka Loop Line or the subway back to JR Osaka Station.

10:30 am // Shopping in Kita District

Kita District is the daytime center of Osaka popular for shopping. Kita is on its owns league so wherever you go here, it’s a sight. For shopping galore, check out Hankyu Department Store, Grand Front Osaka, and Yodobashi Camera.

12 noon // Lunch in Kita District

While you are in Kita, it’s best to take your lunch. But beware because Kita is a business district, so restaurants are jampacked on weekdays during lunchtime.

1 pm // Shopping in Minami District

From Kita District, take the Modosuji subway line to Shinsaibashi Station. From the station, take exit no. 2. Just a few blocks away is Tokyu Hands, a gadget store known to be one of the best worldwide. Proceed to the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade to find a variety of goods you can take home.

2 pm // Dotonbori

From Shinsaibashi-suji, walk south until you see Ebisu-bashi Bridge, which is probably the most popular image of Osaka. You can take some time on the bridge to take some photos and get a feel of the Dotonbori Canal and gigantic signages and billboards all over it. Roam around Dotonbori freely to find the best restaurants, specialty shops, and whatnots. Make sure to check out our guide on what to do in Dotonbori .

4 pm // Hozenji Yokocho

Just two blocks away from Dotonbori is Hozenji Yokocho, an atmospheric narrow alleyway lined with hole-in-the-wall traditional restaurants. At the end of the alley is Hozenji Temple where you can find the moss-clad Mizu-kake Fudo statue.

4:30 pm // Shopping in Doguyasuji Arcade

Just a few minutes walk away from Hozenji Yokocho, Doguyasuji Arcade is Osaka’s famous center of kitchenware.

5 pm // Dinner in Minami

For your dinner, I recommend going back to Minami as it’s home to some of the best restaurants in Osaka.

6 pm // Abeno Harukas

One of the best things to do in Osaka is climbing up Abeno Harukas in Tennoji to see Osaka at night in a 360-degree view. Abeno Harukas has an observation deck open to the public until 10 pm daily. Sunset and evening views here are the best. From Minami, take the Midosuji subway line to Tennoji Station. Just follow the signs to Abeno Harukas.

For updates, you can follow our Osaka free walking tour Facebook page, Osaka Localized Walking Tours .

Ready to get localized? Book your FREE walking tour in Osaka with Osaka Localized !

Osaka Localized provides visitors and travellers to Osaka with a unique perspective of this great city. What makes Osaka Localized unique is that our walking tour guides live and work in Osaka, have a passion for this city and love meeting and welcoming new faces.  Find out more about our Walking Tours in Osaka.

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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Osaka

Last Updated: June 19, 2023

As Osaka is a large city (being Japan’s second biggest metropolitan area after Tokyo), some of the top sites like Universal Studios Japan , the Osaka Castle and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan are quite spread about.

But there are still numerous sites in central Osaka you can quite easily hit in a day by walking.

So if you’re pushed for time, or just really like the idea of walking around Osaka and squeezing in much of it’s offerings in one day, then this self-guided walking tour is for you!

Click here for the Google Maps Walking Directions

Shitennoji Temple

Founded in 593AD , the Buddhist Shitennoji Temple is one of the oldest in Japan. Although most of the buildings are not the originals having been lost and rebuilt many times of the years, but replicated to a finite degree. With the most dominating building being the 5-story pagoda .

It’s a stunning place to wonder around on a nice day absorbing all the ancient Japanese culture. Most of the area is free to walk around, with some of the central buildings, such as the pagoda, having a small entrance fee to enter.

Our kids also enjoyed watching the many turtles you can find in the ponds dotted about.

Tennoji Park

Osaka Castle Park is probably the best known and biggest park in central Osaka, with the huge Japanese Castle being a popular attraction. We decided we weren’t going to hit it on this walking tour due to it being quit an additional distance from our other stops.

So an alternative for this walk is Tennoji Park . Where you can stroll around the traditional Japanese Garden’s and have a chill on the lawns with a snack and a drink.

It’s also the home to the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts if you wanted to add a bit of culture to the tour.

Shinsekai & Tsutenkaku Tower

Shinsekai is an extremely colourful, hustle-bustle shopping district with the Tsutenkaku Tower casting a dominating shadow over the area.

The tower was originally built with the Eiffel Tower in mind . Although, as UK residents, it seemed to remind us more of Blackpool Tower!

The original was badly damaged by a fire and eventually demolished in the 1940s, but the city decided to rebuild a replica in the 1950s.

This current tower now has a an observation deck you can visit for around 800YEN if you want a panoramic view of Osaka from around 88 metres up.

Back on the ground and you can wonder around the shops or try some of the food at the many eating establishments in Shinsekai . Maybe picking up some kushikatsu , a deep-fried skewered meat and vegetable dish.

Our kids found the giant plastic food displays outside many restaurants particularly amusing!

Namba Parks Roof Garden

Namaba Parks is actually a mall and office complex, but on top of the mall is a nice little roof garden . So you can do some shopping in the mall or just head straight up to the roof to view the gardens.

It’s another good spot to have a rest and let the kids (or you) blow off some steam with a little climbing wall for the to try their luck on. Then you can wonder around the gardens admiring the variance of plants on show whilst also absorbing the view overlooking this part of Osaka.

Namba Yasaka Shrine

This is quite a fun shrine to visit. The shrine itself is not so different from any others, but the main draw here is the huge Lion Head stage.

The Lion’s Head with it’s wide open mouth is said to swallow your bad spirits leaving you with good luck.

We mis-timed our visit and the shrine was closed when we arrived, but we saw the Lion Head peering over us non-the-less! It seemed to remind us of the Cave of Wonders in Aladdin!

Hozenji Yokocho

Hozenji Tokochi is a small hidden alley, much calmer and different than other areas of Osaka with the narrow stone paved street boasting over 60 traditional shops and restaurants.

Many say this hidden gem is where the best food in Osaka is served with some of the best Okonomiyaki (a savoury Japanese pancake usually with shredded cabbage and various other filling) on offer.

The alley is named after Hozenji Temple , with the Mizukake Fudo-son statue being an attraction here.

People usually sprinkle water in the statue and make wishes. Because of this process happening over considerable time the statue is now completely covered in moss. So pay it a visit and carry on the tradition and see if you’re wish comes true!

Dotonbori Bridge

The Dontonbori Area is a lively entertainment district with many restaurants and extravagant signage throughout.

It’s a good idea to make this the the last stop at the end of your day as it is best seen by night with the neon lights almost blinding there are so many!

And the Dontonbori Bridge is a great place to stop and gaze at them as you watch the canal boats cruise underneath with the hoards mingling either side.

Then you can amble around the area and search out your favourite looking restaurant and indulge at the end of your sightseeing day.

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We are a group of 6 x 60+ walkers who are interested in a week or less on Nakasendo trail next year. Is it best to do a tour or self guided? They are very expensive ($18000) for 6 people. Is it possible to do ourselves although no one speaks or reads Japanese? Can we hire a guide to help us?

Help please?

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