With the use of the Osaka Amazing Pass, you can enter major tourist attractions in Osaka for free or at a discounted price, allowing for an economical travel experience.
Apart from conventional attractions, I discovered a unique service named ‘Japan Night Walk Tour’ starting from Dotonbori.
‘Exploring Dotonbori with Guides on Japan Night Walk Tour’
This tour, lasting about 45 minutes, involved exploring the Dotonbori area with guides. No prior reservation was needed; you just had to gather at a designated location at the scheduled time. As a solo traveler, I joined the tour to interact with fellow travelers.
The starting point and meeting place were in front of the Kuidaore Taro doll building.
‘Japan Night Walk Tour Led by Three Guides’
The tour was conducted by three guides: ‘Hitchang,’ ‘Hidechang,’ and ‘Hwang Sung-min.’ On the day I joined, Mr. Hwang Sung-min guided us. Being a Korean residing in Japan, language barriers were minimal, and he conducted the tour comfortably in Korean.
‘Night Walk Tour Amidst Typhoon Jami’s Approach’
This day coincided with the approach of Typhoon Jami to Japan, resulting in heavy rain. Although I considered participating the next day, I decided to join earlier. This turned out to be a wise decision due to unforeseen closures of various attractions the following day.
On this day, thanks to Mr. Hwang Sung-min, I learned about the typhoon and Japan’s preparations. Considering my plan to travel to Kyoto the next day, he recommended moving earlier or the following morning due to potential railway disruptions.
This advice allowed me to travel to Kyoto early the next morning, completing check-in smoothly despite the typhoon.
‘Insights into Osaka on Japan Night Walk Tour’
The tour provided insights into must-try foods in Osaka and stories related to nearby areas. From the Kuidaore Taro doll to the moss-covered statue in Hozenji, various anecdotes were shared.
Moreover, I discovered photo-worthy spots in Dotonbori. While the guide took group photos, as a solo traveler, I chose not to take individual pictures.
Despite its short duration, the 45-minute tour proved valuable, leaving a memorable experience of Osaka.
‘Reception Location for Japan Night Walk Tour’
Finding the reception for the Japan Night Walk Tour can be challenging. It’s inside the building with the Kuidaore Taro doll. On the first floor, there’s a souvenir shop where ‘reservation participants’ write their names. After jotting down your name, you wait at the starting point at the designated time.
For those seeking a unique experience in the Dotonbori area of Osaka, the Japan Night Walk Tour is worth a visit.
‘Japan Osaka Dotonbori, Japan Night Walk Tour’
- Address: 1 Chome-7-21, Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
- Phone: +81 6-4703-3390
- Website: http://nightwalk.jp/ko
- Operating Hours: 5:45 – 9:45 (Departs every hour on the hour, lasting 45 minutes)