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Top 20 Things To Do in Osaka

Discover Osaka's must-see attractions and highly-rated experiences. Our expertly curated guide helps you plan the perfect visit with insider recommendations and traveler favorites.

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Osaka Travel Guide: Essential Information for Visitors

Osaka delights visitors as Japan's culinary capital and cultural heart of the Kansai region, where friendly locals, incredible street food, and rich history create an authentic Japanese experience beyond Tokyo's hustle. Explore the magnificent Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks, wander through the neon-lit Dotonbori entertainment district with its giant mechanical signs and canal-side restaurants, and sample the city's legendary street food including takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) that earned Osaka the nickname 'Japan's Kitchen.' Osaka's warm, welcoming culture contrasts beautifully with the more formal atmosphere of other Japanese cities—locals are known for their humor and hospitality, making visitors feel immediately at home. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby cultural treasures like Kyoto's temples, Nara's deer park, and Mount Fuji day trips. With efficient transportation, affordable prices, and an unparalleled food scene, Osaka offers the perfect introduction to Japanese culture and cuisine.

Top 20 Attractions in Osaka

#1
Local Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs! - Top attraction in OsakaLocal Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs! - Additional viewLocal Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs! - View 3Local Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs! - View 4Local Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs! - View 5Local Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs! - View 6
Local Osaka Day Trip with Native English Speaker in Japan 41 yrs!
9 Reviews

Mix of Culture, behind-the-scene stories, Buddhism & Shinto talks, then fun with must-eat Osaka appetizers and sake! We will meet at the Hilton Hotel Lobby near Higashi Umeda Station and head to a Living Museum, where we will step back in time and see how Japanese lived 150~400 years ago. We then head to the oldest Shrine in Osaka, established by the first Emperor of Japan and then to the oldest Temple in Japan, right here in Osaka. Afterwards, we then head into a quiet entertainment district full of locals and then we top it off with Sake and local Osaka foods that you must try when you are here, at the 'heart' of Osaka; Dotonbori Street.

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#2
Make Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka - Top attraction in OsakaMake Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka - Additional viewMake Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka - View 3Make Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka - View 4Make Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka - View 5Make Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka - View 6
Make Sushi and Create Unforgettable Memories in Osaka
7 Reviews

Welcome to Sushi Making Osaka! Let’s make sushi and unforgettable memories in the heart of Japan’s kitchen — Osaka! Join the best Cooking Class in Japan with Sushi Making Osaka, located near the vibrant streets of Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori — the heart of Osaka’s food culture. At Sushi Making Japan, our hands-on class in Osaka is designed to help you create delicious sushi and unforgettable memories in one of Osaka’s most historic neighborhoods. You will roll sushi, shape rice, and discover the joy of Japanese cuisine — no experience needed! Led by friendly local instructors, this experience is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups. After enjoying our food activity in Japan, you won’t just be full — your heart will be full too, with smiles, new skills, and unforgettable memories.

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#3
Private Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver - Top attraction in OsakaPrivate Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver - Additional viewPrivate Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver - View 3Private Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver - View 4Private Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver - View 5Private Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver - View 6
Private Hiace Hire in Kansai Area Osaka English Speaking Driver
6 Reviews

This tour offers a dedicated car with driver to travel around Kansai Area. Suggested Itinerary: Osaka Area: Hotel in Osaka -> Osaka Castle -> Osaka Bay Area -> Shinsekai -> Hotel in Osaka Kyoto Area: Hotel in Osaka-> Kiyomizu Temple -> Fushimi Inari Taisha -> Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest) -> Hotel in Osaka You are also free to customize your own itinerary Please note that if you would like to travel outside Osaka area, there will be additional fees for tol and gasoline for appx ¥10,000 cash to driver

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#4
Private Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport - Top attraction in OsakaPrivate Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport - Additional viewPrivate Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport - View 3Private Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport - View 4Private Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport - View 5Private Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport - View 6
Private Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport
4 Reviews

When it’s comfort time to leave Osaka to domestic flight, end your trip the easy way with this departure transfer by Private taxi type charter transfer to Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) from your hotel in Osaka in the hotels with telephone number start with '06' (eg: 06-xxx-xxxx). Your driver will pick you up from your Osaka hotel, help with your luggage and drive you directly to the airport in a comfortable our taxi type Sedan, MPV or Van. It’s that easy!

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#5
 Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer - Top attraction in Osaka Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer - Additional view Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer - View 3 Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer - View 4 Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer - View 5 Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer - View 6
Private Photoshoot in Osaka with a Professional Photographer
3 Reviews

No more selfies or pestering strangers for photos of yourself and loved ones; enjoy the services of a professional vacation photographer in Osaka to capture your travels in a contemporary and candid style. We specialize in delivering quality photography with photographers all over the world, and we guarantee you amazing photos to remember your travels. All images shown were taken by our photographers.

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#6
High class furisode rental 1day plan - Top attraction in OsakaHigh class furisode rental 1day plan - Additional viewHigh class furisode rental 1day plan - View 3High class furisode rental 1day plan - View 4High class furisode rental 1day plan - View 5High class furisode rental 1day plan - View 6
High class furisode rental 1day plan
3 Reviews

Wear a kimono and stroll around the city of Osaka! We have over 100 types of kimonos in various sizes, including kimonos for women and men. Our multilingual staff will help you with your kimono experience at an affordable price. In addition, a professional hair and makeup stylist will complement your style with authentic Japanese hair styling. The general schedule is as follows: ● 10 minutes to choose a kimono ● 15-20 minutes to try on a kimono (20 minutes if hair styling is included) ● After having fun in a kimono, return to our shop before the designated time and change into your everyday clothes (it will take about 10 minutes). There is also a souvenir shop inside the store. Experience the magic of traditional Japanese costumes and beauty rituals at 「Kawaii Osaka」!

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#7
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City - Top attraction in OsakaFull-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City - Additional viewFull-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City - View 3Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City - View 4Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City - View 5Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City - View 6
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City
3 Reviews

Come with us for a private guided tour of on foot and by public transport to Kobe, where history, fashion and modernity meet. We start at Sannomiya Station and discover the historic Kobe Kitano Ijinkangai (foreign residences district), a place steeped in history. We then take to the bustling shopping street of Kobe Motomachi, then dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Nankingmachi, the city’s vibrant Chinatown. We conclude our visit to Harborland, a charming family-run port with stunning views of the city from the mountains to the sea. After this day, you will learn more about the History of Kobe. You will also have had plenty in your eyes with this modern family and lively city. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

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#8
Osaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei - Top attraction in OsakaOsaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei - Additional viewOsaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei - View 3Osaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei - View 4Osaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei - View 5Osaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei - View 6
Osaka Market Tour & Cooking Class with Local Expert Masato/Shohei
3 Reviews

Enjoy a Japanese cooking class in Osaka with your host Masato. This is a perfect experience for anyone looking to connect with local culture over food. Masato lived in New York for 25 years, then moved to Japan in 2010. He has worked as sushi chef in New York, owned a Hawaiian café in Osaka and currently runs a Takoyaki bar. He is excited to share his passion and teach Japanese cuisine to those who are curious to learn about the ingredients, cooking techniques and culinary traditions. • Osaka cooking class with a local expert in his studio, which has stunning views of the city • Introduction to Japanese ingredients, cuisine and culture • Learn to make sushi or ramen or tempura or gyoza • Enjoy your Japanese meal with miso soup and green tea • Suitable for beginners, families, children and couples • Lactose free, gluten free, vegetarian and vegan diets available, on request If you choose the market tour option, enjoy a guided tour of the Karahori Shotengai market

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#9
Hakama rental 1day plan - Top attraction in OsakaHakama rental 1day plan - Additional viewHakama rental 1day plan - View 3Hakama rental 1day plan - View 4
Hakama rental 1day plan
2 Reviews

Wear a kimono and stroll around the city of Osaka! We have over 100 types of kimonos in various sizes, including kimonos for women and men. Our multilingual staff will help you with your kimono experience at an affordable price. In addition, a professional hair and makeup stylist will complement your style with authentic Japanese hair styling. The general schedule is as follows: ●10 minutes to choose a kimono ●15-20 minutes to try on a kimono (20 minutes if hair styling is included) ●After having fun in a kimono, return to our shop before the designated time and change into your everyday clothes (it will take about 10 minutes). There is also a souvenir shop inside the store. Experience the magic of traditional Japanese costumes and beauty rituals at 「Kawaii Osaka」!

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#10
Private Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka - Top attraction in OsakaPrivate Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka - Additional viewPrivate Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka - View 3Private Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka - View 4Private Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka - View 5Private Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka - View 6
Private Customized Tour with Local Guide In Osaka
2 Reviews

Please find out this tour on IG #travel.japan_together Embark on a captivating journey through Osaka's finest in just one day! Join our guided tour to explore Osaka Castle, Shinsekai's vibrant streets, Shinsaibashi's shopping allure, and the iconic Dotonbori district. We'll work with you to design an itinerary that perfectly matches your preferences and interests! We'll discuss and determine the best places to visit and the activities you'd like to experience. Uncover Osaka's history, culture, and culinary delights with our knowledgeable local guide. Immerse yourself in the city's essence, enjoying a seamless adventure that showcases the best of Osaka's past and present. Don't miss this chance to make the most of your time and create lasting memories. Book your all-inclusive tour now!

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#11
Osaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized - Top attraction in OsakaOsaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized - Additional viewOsaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized - View 3Osaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized - View 4Osaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized - View 5Osaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized - View 6
Osaka's Ura Namba Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized
2 Reviews

You’ll join one of our local Osaka hosts to eat your way around one of the best-kept gourmet secrets inOsaka: Ura Namba. This tiny enclave boasts a cornucopia of classic izakaya (Japanese bars), hole-in-the-wall eateries, sushi dens, exciting fusion restaurants and quirky bars that can’t be likened to anywhere else in the city! So, together with your host, you’ll wander off the beaten tourist track and take to the alleys! Here, you’ll experience a local culinary feast. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.

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#12
Food Tour: Taste Osaka like a local - Top attraction in OsakaFood Tour: Taste Osaka like a local - Additional viewFood Tour: Taste Osaka like a local - View 3Food Tour: Taste Osaka like a local - View 4Food Tour: Taste Osaka like a local - View 5Food Tour: Taste Osaka like a local - View 6
Food Tour: Taste Osaka like a local
3 Reviews

Discover the heart and soul of Osaka through an unforgettable food adventure! Join us in the iconic Dotonbori district, where you'll explore hidden gems and taste authentic, mouth-watering Japanese street food. From sizzling takoyaki to crispy karaage, every stop is an opportunity to indulge in the rich flavors that make Osaka famous. You'll stroll past the dazzling Glico Running Man, the vibrant neon lights of Dotonbori, and stop by local favorites like Mattari-Purin for a creamy Japanese pudding and Lord Stow’s Bakery for a matcha tart. Whether you’re craving savory delights or sweet treats, our expert guide will lead you to the best places to savor culinary treasures. Along the way, you'll learn about the history, culture, and stories behind each dish, all while experiencing the energy and charm of one of Japan’s most exciting food districts. Don’t miss this chance to taste Osaka like a local—book your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

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#13
Osaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour - Top attraction in OsakaOsaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour - Additional viewOsaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour - View 3Osaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour - View 4Osaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour - View 5Osaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour - View 6
Osaka Private Customizable Full Day Tour
1 Reviews

This private and customizable tour for Osaka city (in Osaka Prefecture) is perfect for guests who would like to have their own itinerary planned based on their interests and preferences, allowing guests to experience the city at their own pace. Discover 4-5 attractions in Osaka City at your own pace on this fully customizable 8-hour full day private tour with an English-speaking (or other language) tour guide. Create a dream tour that’s perfect for your interests and preferences. After booking, you'll receive a form with varied themes, allowing easy selection based on your interests. Whether it's culture, history, cuisine, nature, or special events, you can highlight your preferences and must-see spots, streamlining our planning process.

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#14
The Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized - Top attraction in OsakaThe Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized - Additional viewThe Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized - View 3The Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized - View 4The Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized - View 5The Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized - View 6
The Ultimate Osaka Shopping Experience: Private And Personalized
3 Reviews

When it comes to shopping, Osaka is an absolute paradise! The problem is, where to start? With one of our local hosts, obviously. Head to a district that suits your unique style, or, the style you’ve yet to unlock. Umeda, Namba, Shinsaibashi, Amerikamura and Den Den Town all have their own unique quirks for you to discover. Whether you are seeking traditional stores, high-tech emporiums or want to shop for novelty items in a local neighborhood, your host will create a shopping experience that’s customized to your style and what you’d like to buy. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do

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#15
Minoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss - Top attraction in OsakaMinoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss - Additional viewMinoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss - View 3Minoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss - View 4Minoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss - View 5Minoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss - View 6
Minoo Park Adventure: Nature, Temples, and Coffee Bliss
1 Reviews

Join us for a delightful journey through the scenic Minoo Park, a natural paradise just outside Osaka. Start with a leisurely two-hour exploration of the park, famous for its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. Next, visit the serene Minoosan Ryuanji Temple for a brief, peaceful retreat. Be mesmerized by the majestic Waterfall of Mino, a 30-minute stop that promises awe-inspiring natural beauty. Conclude your tour with a relaxing break at Yamamoto Coffee-kan, where you can savor exquisite local coffee and snacks. This tour is a perfect blend of nature, spiritual rejuvenation, and culinary indulgence, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.

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#16
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples - Top attraction in OsakaFull-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples - Additional viewFull-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples - View 3Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples - View 4Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples - View 5Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples - View 6
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples
1 Reviews

Come with us to visit Nara during one day on foot and by public transports! We start with the Nara Prefectural Government Office’s rooftop. The view is fantastic! From there, the guide shows you Todaiji, Kasuga-taisha, and Nara Park. It will be a good way for introduction to begin the day! We go on a walk then we arrive to Todaiji Temple (8th century), home to Japan’s largest seated Buddha. You will be amazed by its magnificence ! After the temple, we continue our walk to Kasuga-Taisha Shrine. Sacred deer are free to come and go. We walk through Nara Park, meeting over 1,200 deer along the way. Finally, we arrive to Naramachi, merchant old town, rich in traditional Edo-period architecture. We are also able to visit old houses. After that day, you will know more about Japanese History, through Nara Period (8th century) and Edo Period (17-19th century). You will also be full of memory with all these monuments and nature all the way of our trip. Ready to come? We are waiting for you!

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#17
Family Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class - Top attraction in OsakaFamily Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class - Additional viewFamily Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class - View 3Family Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class - View 4Family Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class - View 5Family Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class - View 6
Family Friendly Osaka Tempura Cooking Class
1 Reviews

Experience the culinary delight of making and eating tempura in Osaka. Sizzle up a variety of delicious types of tempura—succulent shrimp, crispy vegetables, and savory kakiage. In this family-friendly class led by Max, a Japanese-American chef and restaurant owner. Savor your freshly fried creations with a side of rice, comforting miso soup, a delectable dessert, and green tea all while enjoying a stunning view of Osaka. With options tailored to your unique dietary needs, this meal promises to be both delicious and accommodating.

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#18
Harukas 300 Observatory Ticket - Top attraction in OsakaHarukas 300 Observatory Ticket - Additional viewHarukas 300 Observatory Ticket - View 3Harukas 300 Observatory Ticket - View 4Harukas 300 Observatory Ticket - View 5Harukas 300 Observatory Ticket - View 6
Harukas 300 Observatory Ticket
1 Reviews

The view of the breath-taking scenery of Osaka city from sky-high at Abeno Harukas. Be taken aback by the beauty of Osaka seen from the 60th floor, featuring a panoramic glass-enclosed deck. The double-height Sky Garden on the 58th floor is a space that’s open to the sky above, where you can feel the air

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#19
Osaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide - Top attraction in OsakaOsaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide - Additional viewOsaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide - View 3Osaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide - View 4Osaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide - View 5Osaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide - View 6
Osaka Food & Culture 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
1 Reviews

Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Ikayaki, Negiyaki, and Doteyaki! Do you know all these ‘yaki’ dishes that are loved in Osaka? In the kitchen of Japan, you can find and learn all about many unique, flavorful, and savory sauce covered foods that locals love! Join our local guides to experience the food history of this vibrant city. Learn about what Kushi Katsu is and what makes Osaka’s Takoyaki (octopus stuffed fried bread balls) the best in the country! Take in all the bright lights, sounds and delicious smells in Dotombori District with your guide. Explore the Kuromon market or if you are in the mood for something spicy, stop by Osaka’s Korea town. If you are in the mood for food, book this tour with one of our English-speaking and government licensed guides. Once your reservation is made, pick 3 – 4 spots from the tour itinerary to visit and let your guide know your food preferences. We hope to guide you soon!

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#20
Shore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port - Top attraction in OsakaShore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port - Additional viewShore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port - View 3Shore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port - View 4Shore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port - View 5Shore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port - View 6
Shore Excursion: Day Trip To Kyoto From Osaka Port
12 Reviews

Travel to Kyoto with your local host, and discover another side of Japanese culture in its 8th-century capital. Explore the cobbled streets of traditional entertainment district Gion, see the famous flame-colored tunnel of Fushimi Inari Shrine, or visit the Arashiyama bamboo grove in western Kyoto. At dusk, when the city’s iconic paper lanterns are lit, you could even spot a mesmerizing geisha floating through the streets. Whatever you decide, you’ll discover more than just the Kyoto in your guidebook. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.

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