In various locations throughout Osaka, you can experience cruising on a ship. Even in the bustling commercial district of Dotonbori, which can be considered the central area of southern Osaka, you can find various types of cruise ships. Similarly, at Osaka Castle, you can embark on a cruise experience.
“The Cruise Ship at Osaka Castle, ‘Gozabune Funabashi'”
The cruise ship you can find at Osaka Castle is named ‘Gozabune Funabashi.’ It is located at the outermost moat of Osaka Castle, close to Chūsokaku. This boat, modeled after Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s phoenix-shaped ship (Ho-ōmaru), operates in the innermost moat for approximately 20 minutes.
“Cruising Views of Osaka Castle from the Moat”
Boarding the cruise ship allows you to enjoy views of Osaka Castle from the moat. You can comfortably sit on the boat and explore the surroundings of Osaka Castle. The boat often gives ample time to take photos, rotating to both sides, and provides brief explanations in English, offering more information about Osaka Castle.
“Free Experience with Osaka Amazing Pass”
Using the Osaka Amazing Pass allows you to enjoy ‘Gozabune Funabashi’ for free. However, without the pass, the cost can be relatively high. The adult price is 1,500 yen, approximately equivalent to 15,000 won.
“A 20-Minute Ride with Departures Every 10 Minutes”
Three cruise ships operate simultaneously, with departures every 10 minutes. Operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:20 PM (last departure at 4:50 PM) from March to October, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last departure at 4:30 PM) from November to February. Once you set sail, you can enjoy the scenery of Osaka Castle for 20 minutes.
“Osaka, Japan – Osaka Castle, Gozabune Funabashi”
- Address: 2 Ōsakajō, Chūō-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 540-0002, Japan
- Phone: +81 6-6755-4146
- Website: Gozabune Funabashi
- Operating Hours: (March-October) 10:00 AM – 5:20 PM (Last departure at 4:50 PM) / (November-February) 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last departure at 4:30 PM)
- Departure Interval: 10 minutes
- Cruise Duration: 20 minutes