Osaka Shore Excursions

Attractions for Osaka Shore Excursions

Osaka is the second largest metropolitan area in this country after the capital – Tokyo. Due to this, Osaka attracts a large number of tourists around the year. People said that the atmosphere, weather, shopping, and especially food are all perfect with those who love Japan a lot. A shore trip to Osaka will take you to various places.

Himeji Castle

Also known as the White Heron Castle, Himeji Castle is considered as the most beautiful one in Japan due to its splendor sight, white appearance and well-preserved. This national masterpiece is also a World Heritage Site which still remains the original structure through many wars, disasters, and fire in the past. The castle grounds are home to over 80 buildings with different architecture which are all connected by a plenty of winding paths and gates. Inside the wooden castle, there is a wonderful garden of cherry blossom trees fully blooming in spring.

Byodo-in Temple

Byodo-in is a temple which dedicates for Buddhism with the theme of a pure land paradise. The highlight of its grounds is the Phoenix Hall with the special shape and two phoenix statues standing on the roof. The temple is surprisingly well-preserved with the spectacular landscape of mountains served as the splendor background. Byodo-in Temple is highly recommended in any Osaka shore excursion thanks to its picturesque and tranquil scenery. The small souvenir shop provides you the chance to pick up some gifts as a lovely reminder of this place.

Iwashimizu Hachiman-gu Shrine

Be considered as one of the most popular spots in Osaka shore excursions, the Iwashimizu Hachiman-gu Shrine was built in 1634 with the rich decoration. Various animal and plant images are carved into the shrine from Edo Period. Its peaceful atmosphere and solemn look will fill your eyes with the pristine beauty of the temple. Surprisingly that this shrine has a quaint connection to the life and work of inventor Thomas Edition. Visit the shrine on May 4th to have the chance to witness thousands of bamboo lanterns are lit in the annual Festival of lights.

Osaka Castle

Osaka shore trips cannot miss a visit to the most important castle in the city. Osaka Castle was built in 1583 but was destroyed by Tokugawa soldiers many years later. Nowadays, the castle tower is designed following modern architecture that includes an elevator for easier accessibility. It is home to a museum giving information about the history of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Stroll along and admire this incredible structure surrounded by huge stone walls.

Kasuga Shrine

Kasuga Shine is the most celebrated shrine in Nara that included in many Japan shore trips. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built for dedicating to the deity who protect the whole city. The shrine complex is divided into four smaller shrines which are both surrounded by a gallery and painted in bright red velvet. Hundreds of bronze lanterns which have been donated by worshipers are lit and hang along the shrine, together make a splendor scenery in this religious site. On the ground standing a Treasure House displaying various ancient relics.

Dotonbori Shopping Street

Lie on the side of the Dotonbori-gawa Canal, Dotonbori Shopping Street is a must-visiting place when hopping on shore excursions to Osaka. This exotic street is the combination of traditional values and modern products. On the sides of the canal, there are promenades which offer the different environment for this downtown with colorful advertisements and neon lights that you can only see from pictures following the aesthetic style on the internet. Moreover, Dotonbori Street is lined with a plenty of wonderful restaurants and amusement facilities. If you are a shopaholic, this place can’t be miss that you can soak in every single souvenir shop to bring a half of their store to your home, or sample some interesting snacks and cookies in some food stalls along the street.