Excursion Osaka views tour at Osaka

Experience the stunning beauty and history of Osaka from two unique perspectives during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Shitenno-ji Temple, 6th-Century Temple Buildings

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Shitenno-ji Temple, built in the late-6th century by a son of Emperor Yomei. One of Japan's oldest temples, Shittenno-ji was the first to be built by the state and founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, who supported the introduction of Buddhism into Japan. Whilst several of the temple's buildings have burned down several times throughout the centuries, they have always been carefully reconstructed to reflect the original, 6th-century design.

Outer Temple Grounds, Interior Tour, Gokuraku-jodo Garden, Pagoda, Main Hall, Kannon Statue

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour around the outer temple grounds. Once inside the temple, see the Gokuraku-jodo Garden, the pebble-covered courtyard with a five-storey pagoda, and the Main Hall where Prince Shotoku is enshrined as a statue of Kannon. Following your visit, re-board your coach and drive to the Umeda area for a visit to the Umeda Sky Building.

Umeda Sky Building, 40-Storey Towers, Bridges, Escalator, Sky Walk, Panoramic Views Over Osaka

The Umeda Sky Building is amongst the tallest buildings in Osaka and one of its most recognisable landmarks. At a height of approximately 567 feet (173 metres), the building consists of two, 40-storey towers that connect at their two uppermost stories, with bridges and an escalator for crossing the wide, atrium-like space in the centre. The highlight of your tour is a visit to the Sky Walk, where you can enjoy spectacular, 360-degree panoramic views overlooking Osaka. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Osaka, Shittenno-ji Temple, Ancient Buildings, Gokuraku-jodo Garden, Pagoda, Main Hall, Kannon Statue, Umeda Sky Buildings, Sky Walk, Panoramic Osaka Views

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 30 steps inside the Shitenno-ji Temple; a lift is available at the Umeda Sky Building. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Osaka may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Photography/videography of the Buddha Statue at the Shitenno-ji Temple is strictly prohibited. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.