Osaka

Cruises & Boat Tours

Visit some of Kyoto's most famous cultural sites on this day-long bus tour from Osaka. Hop aboard a comfortable coach and drive to Japan's ancient capital to see the brilliant torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera temple, and the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji. Kyoto is filled with ancient historic sites dating back to the 6th century. Get dropped off first at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Spend time wandering the brilliant paths before heading to your next destination. Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera, one of the most iconic temples in Japan. Take ample time to wander through the temple. Walk across the impressive wooden stage, which juts out from the hillside and was constructed without the use of a single nail. Next, stop at Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion due to the fact that it's covered in gold leaf. Wander through the immaculate gardens surrounding the temple, admiring the original Japanese designs that have been preserved since Ashikaga's time. Finish the day in Arashiyama, which has been a popular nature-viewing destination since the Heian Period. Take a stroll through the cool Sagano Bamboo Forest and listen to the distinct rustle of bamboo leaves as you walk. In the late afternoon, hop on the bus back to Osaka.

After pickup from one of 3 locations in Osaka, head towards Kyoto, once the former capital of Japan, on the island of Honshu. The first activity of the day is a scenic and romantic railway ride from Kameoka to Arashiyama. During the 23-minute journey, feel immersed in nature as you admire the beautiful blossom trees and breathtaking mountain views. Upon arrival at Arashiyama, enjoy a delicious buffet style lunch with soft drinks to prepare you for an afternoon of sightseeing. After lunch, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Kiyomizudera Temple, one of the most celebrated temples in Japan, founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall. The tour continues onto Fushimi Inari, world-famous for the thousands of Torii gates that line the entrance to the Shinto Shrine. Spend some free time exploring the mountain trails and the shrine buildings themselves, and learn about the fascinating culture of Japan. The tour ends after your visit to Fushimi Inari, and you’ll be dropped-off to your original pickup location in Osaka.

Meet your guide at JR Osaka station and then take the train from there to Osaka Castle. First, you will visit the Osaka Museum of History. You'll see a replica of the great council hall of Naniwanomiya Palace and learn about the history of Osaka. Then, visit Nishinomaru Garden. This is a great spot to take some photos with Osaka Castle in the background. Next, you'll head to Otemon, the main gate of Osaka Castle where you'll marvel at the gigantic stones used to build the castle walls. In the main castle area, you will also visit Osaka Castle Tower, see the reconstructed golden traditional tea ceremony room, and admire the amazing view from the observatory. Don't miss the authentic Samurai uniforms that they used to wear into war. After your visit to the castle, have lunch at MIRAIZA OSAKA-JO, and then enjoy a cruise on the castle moat in an traditional boat to view the high stone walls and the gardens from a different perspective.

Enjoy a sight-seeing cruise in the Osaka Bay with a view of magnificent scenic spots. Take in a unique atmosphere while relaxing onboard.  Board the iconic Santa Maria boat that will depart every hour from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Santa Maria is modeled after the ship of Columbus journeyed to the American Continent and the size is twice larger than the ship at the time. Enjoy the view of Tempozan Bridge, Ferris wheel, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and Universal Studios Japan from unusual angles.  After 45 minutes, the cruise will come back to where you board.