Osaka: Daytime Dotonbori Food Tour

Osaka is a culinary hotspot, and the Daytime Dotonbori Food Tour offers a chance to take in the vibrant flavors of the city. Priced at SEK 1,819 per person, this 3-hour tour guides participants through the bustling streets of Dotonbori and Namba, sampling local specialties like kushikatsu and takoyaki. With an intimate group of up to 10 people, the tour promises a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to discover hidden gems. But what makes this tour truly special is the chance to explore Japan’s Kitchen and uncover its hidden delights.

Key Points

• This 3-hour culinary experience explores Dotonbori and Namba, known as "Japan’s Kitchen," with tastings of local specialties like kushikatsu and takoyaki.
• The tour takes participants to hidden izakayas, seasonal lunch sets, and unconventional restaurants and pubs in secret alleys, with 4 food stops and 1 drink.
• The tour is conducted in English, with a group size limited to 10 participants, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Participants will have the opportunity to further explore the area after the tour ends, with the meeting point at the iconic Glico man in Dotonbori.
• The tour includes local dishes, a traditional Japanese dessert, an English-speaking guide, but excludes transportation costs and additional drinks or food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Dotonbori Food Tour offers a 3-hour culinary experience, priced from SEK 1,819 per person.

The group size is limited to 10 participants, and the tour is conducted in English.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

Highlights include exploring Dotonbori and Namba, known as "Japan’s Kitchen," and sampling local specialties like kushikatsu and takoyaki.

The tour also visits hidden izakayas, unconventional restaurants, and concludes with a traditional Japanese dessert.

Experience Highlights

Explore Dotonbori and Namba, known as "Japan’s Kitchen," where you will taste local specialties like kushikatsu (fried skewers) and takoyaki (grilled octopus fritter).

The tour visits hidden izakayas and samples seasonal lunch sets, discovering unconventional restaurants and pubs in secret alleys. Guests enjoy a traditional Japanese dessert to conclude the experience.

Throughout the 3-hour tour, the group navigates busy streets and hidden paths of Minami Osaka, stopping at 4 food stops, including 1 drink.

Along the way, they’ll explore modern and retro shops, cafes, and shopping arcades, with an opportunity for further exploration after the tour ends.

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins at the iconic Glico man in Dotonbori, where participants navigate through the busy streets and hidden paths of Minami Osaka.

Over the next 3 hours, the group will:

• Sample local dishes at 4 food stops, including 1 drink
• Visit modern and retro shops, cafes, and shopping arcades
• Discover unconventional restaurants and pubs in secret alleys
• Taste local specialties like kushikatsu and takoyaki
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dessert to conclude the tour

After the tour ends, participants have the opportunity to further explore the vibrant Dotonbori area on their own.

Meeting Point and Important Information

The meeting point for the Dotonbori Food Tour is in front of Starbucks Tsutaya Ebisu-bashi, located in the heart of Dotonbori.

Participants should arrive on time, as the tour begins promptly. There’s a 5-minute grace period, but no further directions will be provided once the tour starts.

Dietary requirements can be accommodated, and participants aged 10 and over must provide passport information.

A minimum of 2 people is required to book the tour, and the minimum drinking age is 21.

The tour includes local dishes, a drink, and a traditional dessert, as well as an English-speaking guide and hotel pickup.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The Dotonbori Food Tour includes local dishes, one drink, and a traditional dessert. An English-speaking local guide accompanies participants throughout the 3-hour experience.

While gratuities, transportation costs, and additional drinks or food are excluded, the tour provides:

• Mouthwatering samples of Kushikatsu (fried skewers) and Takoyaki (grilled octopus fritter)

• A seasonal Japanese lunch set at a hidden Izakaya

• Exploration of unconventional restaurants and pubs in secret alleys

• Opportunity to discover modern and retro shops, cafes, and shopping arcades

• A satisfying finale with a traditional Japanese dessert

Exploring Dotonbori and Namba

As participants embark on the Dotonbori Food Tour, they’ll explore the lively Dotonbori and Namba districts, widely known as "Japan’s Kitchen."

These vibrant neighborhoods brim with an array of local eateries, hidden Izakayas, and unconventional pubs, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary heart of Osaka.

Wandering through the bustling streets, they’ll discover the iconic "Glico Man" landmark and navigate a labyrinth of hidden alleyways.

Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to sample local specialties like kushikatsu (fried skewers) and takoyaki (grilled octopus fritters), as well as seasonal lunch sets at these off-the-beaten-path establishments.

Tasting Local Specialties

As participants dive into the Dotonbori Food Tour, they’ll have the chance to savor the local specialties that define Osaka’s vibrant culinary scene.

From the crispy, golden kushikatsu (fried skewers) to the iconic takoyaki (grilled octopus fritters), these bold flavors showcase the unique gastronomic identity of "Japan’s Kitchen."

The tour also introduces hidden izakayas and seasonal lunch sets, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culinary underbelly.

Rounding out the experience is a traditional Japanese dessert, a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable journey through Osaka’s dynamic food culture.

• Crispy kushikatsu
• Iconic takoyaki
• Hidden izakayas
• Seasonal lunch sets
• Traditional Japanese dessert

Discovering Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known attractions of Dotonbori, the tour ventures through secret alleys and hidden pathways, uncovering unconventional restaurants and pubs that capture the essence of Osaka’s vibrant nightlife.

Participants discover modern and retro shops, cafes, and shopping arcades off the beaten path, providing a glimpse into the locals’ favorite hangouts.

The guide skillfully navigates the winding streets, sharing insider knowledge and leading the group to these concealed gems.

This element of exploration and discovery adds an element of excitement, allowing visitors to experience Osaka like a true local.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed on the tour. The tour includes local dishes, one drink, and a traditional dessert. Additional food and drinks can be purchased during the tour stops.

Is There a Dress Code or Special Attire Required?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Casual attire is fine, as the focus is on exploring the local food scene. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared to do some walking.

Do I Need to Speak Japanese to Participate in the Tour?

No, you don’t need to speak Japanese to participate in the tour. The tour is conducted in English by a local English-speaking guide, so you can fully enjoy the experience without any language barriers.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour. The tour operator offers private tours for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Private tours have a minimum of 2 participants and can be tailored to your preferences.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour has a minimum drinking age of 21, but there’s no other age restriction. Children under 10 can participate, but they’ll need to provide passport information. The group size is limited to 10 people.

The Sum Up

The Osaka Daytime Dotonbori Food Tour offers a delightful culinary adventure through the vibrant streets of Dotonbori and Namba. Participants will savor local specialties, explore hidden gems, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of Japan’s Kitchen. With a limited group size and English-guided experience, this tour provides an authentic taste of Osaka’s vibrant flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: