Explore Osaka and Nara in a day with a customizable chauffeur tour. Discover UNESCO sites, modern architecture, and create unforgettable memories.
Explore Osaka and Nara in a day with a customizable chauffeur tour. Discover UNESCO sites, modern architecture, and create unforgettable memories.
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Osaka Castle - Osaka Castle stands as one of Japan’s most renowned and historically significant landmarks, situated in the heart of Osaka. Originally constructed in the late 16th century by the samurai warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it symbolized his unification of Japan following a prolonged period of civil war.
The castle played a pivotal role…
- Osaka Castle - Osaka Castle stands as one of Japan’s most renowned and historically significant landmarks, situated in the heart of Osaka. Originally constructed in the late 16th century by the samurai warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it symbolized his unification of Japan following a prolonged period of civil war.
The castle played a pivotal role during Japan’s unification in the Azuchi-Momoyama period and was central to the Battle of Osaka (1614–1615), which marked the end of the Toyotomi clan’s rule. The current structure is a modern reconstruction, completed in 1931, after the original was destroyed multiple times throughout its history. Despite being a reconstruction, it retains traditional Japanese castle architecture, featuring large stone walls, a moat, and multi-tiered roofs adorned with golden ornaments. The castle’s central tower is five stories on the outside but has eight stories inside.
- Shitennoji - Shitennoji Temple is one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, located in Osaka. It was originally built in 593 AD by Prince Shōtoku, who played a crucial role in promoting Buddhism in Japan.
Shitennoji is regarded as Japan’s first officially established Buddhist temple and symbolizes the early spread of Buddhism in Japan. It was constructed to honor the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno) who were believed to guard the world from evil. Though the temple has been reconstructed several times due to damage from fires and natural disasters, it maintains its original layout. The central complex features a five-story pagoda designed in a symmetrical manner, typical of early Buddhist temple architecture.
- Dotombori - Dotonbori Street is one of the most famous and lively streets in Osaka, known for its vibrant nightlife, neon lights, and delicious street food. Located along the Dotonbori Canal, it’s a must-visit spot for both tourists and locals who want to experience the energetic atmosphere of the city.
Dotonbori is famous for its giant, illuminated billboards, the most iconic being the Glico Running Man, a symbol of the area since the 1930s. The neon signs light up the canal at night, creating a dazzling and memorable scene. Dotonbori is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of Osaka’s signature dishes. You can find street stalls and restaurants serving Takoyaki (octopus balls), savory pancakes, Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), Ramen, and other local delicacies.
- Umeda Sky Building - The Umeda Sky Building is one of the most iconic landmarks in Osaka, Japan. Completed in 1993, it stands at 173 meters tall and consists of two 40-story towers connected at the top by a floating garden observatory, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
The observatory on the top floor provides a 360-degree view of Osaka, making it popular for both daytime and nighttime cityscapes. The two towers are connected by glass-covered escalators that give the sensation of floating as you ascend to the observatory. Designed by architect Hiroshi Hara, the building is a striking example of modern, futuristic architecture, with open spaces and a visually interesting structure. The Kuchu Teien (Sky Garden) rooftop garden allows visitors to walk around in the open air while taking in the views. At the base of the building, there are shopping areas.
- Todai-ji Temple - Todai-ji Temple is renowned for its deer and the Great Buddha’s Statue of Nara.
The Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) is the central feature of Todai-ji. This hall was once the largest wooden building in the world and remains one of the largest. Inside, it houses the Daibutsu, a massive bronze statue of Vairocana Buddha, which is about 15 meters tall and weighs 500 tons. This giant Buddha is one of Japan’s most famous icons. It was cast in 752 AD and symbolizes peace and prosperity, commissioned by Emperor Shōmu to solidify Buddhism’s role in uniting the country. Todai-ji was originally constructed in the 8th century and served as the head of all provincial Buddhist temples across Japan during the Nara period. It also contributed significantly to the spread of Buddhism in Japan.
Todai-ji is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting its profound historical, religious, and cultural importance.
- Nara Park - Nara Park in Nara, Japan, is one of the country’s most iconic and scenic public parks, famous for its free-roaming deer and proximity to several important historical and cultural sites. Established in 1880, the park covers over 500 hectares (about 1,200 acres) and is home to some of Nara’s most renowned landmarks, including Todai-ji Temple, Kōfuku-ji Temple, and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
The park is home to over 1,000 free-roaming deer, which are considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto belief. The deer are tame and accustomed to human interaction. Visitors can buy special deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed them, and the deer are known to bow to people in exchange for food. Located within Nara Park, Todai-ji houses the Great Buddha and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a major attraction in the park.
- Private transportation
- Hotspot on the Board
- Toll & Taxes
- Child seats
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Private transportation
- Hotspot on the Board
- Toll & Taxes
- Child seats
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Fee Osaka Castle $5usd only
- Fees of the Umeda Sky Osaka $10usd
- Fee of Todai-ji Temple Nara is $2usd
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Fee Osaka Castle $5usd only
- Fees of the Umeda Sky Osaka $10usd
- Fee of Todai-ji Temple Nara is $2usd
Osaka & Nara offer the perfect itinerary for travelers seeking to explore both the cultural and modern aspects of Japan, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. We invite families, friends, groups, and couples to enjoy our exceptional service. Customize your tour to suit your preferences. Osaka, Japan’s second-largest and most populous city, boasts…
Osaka & Nara offer the perfect itinerary for travelers seeking to explore both the cultural and modern aspects of Japan, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. We invite families, friends, groups, and couples to enjoy our exceptional service. Customize your tour to suit your preferences. Osaka, Japan’s second-largest and most populous city, boasts modern architecture alongside historically significant archaeological sites. Visitors will create lifelong memories. We provide various types of vehicles to accommodate any group size.
Our thoughtfully designed tour ensures a delightful and unforgettable experience.
We hold our guests in the highest regard. Your satisfaction is our honor. Saving time enriches your experience.
Note: Travel between locations typically takes 2 hours.
- The Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky, and Today-ji, are only optional. This admission is paid directly on arrival.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.