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Food Tours Japan

Eat, Drink & Cook in Japan

15 Best Osaka Food Tours [2024 Update]

Osaka is a city obsessed with food, and there’s no better place to experience Japanese food and local specialities. Enjoying an Osaka food tour is the best way to savour the fantastic food and soulful vibes of this gourmet city fondly known as ‘Japan’s Kitchen’.

I’ve hand-picked the best Osaka food and drink experiences by comparing each tour and highlighting what’s important. Why should you trust me?

Living in Osaka for nine years, I’ve taken many tours and discovered the most delicious dishes and best culinary neighbourhoods. After reading this, you’ll find an experience right for you.

Here are the 15 best Osaka food tours.

If you’re in a hurry, jump down to my at a glance comparison guide .

Osaka Food Tours: Quick Links

• Osaka Food Tour at Shinsekai with 10 Dishes
• Ura Namba Food Tour: Eat Like a True Osakan
• Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Dotonbori and Namba
• Osaka Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour
• Osaka Street Food Tour

Compare Osaka Food Tours: Quick Comparison Guide

• Kuromon Market Food Tours – eat your way through Osaka’s gourmet market

Osaka Food Tour: Best of the Best Experiences

‘  Savour deliciously addictive Osakan soul food around the famous Dotonbori and Namba area on tour 1 . Wash it down with sake and craft beer in backstreet bars on an Osaka street food tour.

Explore Osaka’s vibrant food scene and nightlife culture on fascinating tour 2 . Enjoy local and Japanese dishes at standing bars in off-the-beaten-track hipster hangout Temma.

Eat authentic Osaka food until you drop in Shinsekai’s secret spots on highly-acclaimed tour 3 . Ten dishes, two drinks and fun and friendly guides make it excellent value.

Discover trendy Ura Namba, one of Osaka’s best-kept culinary secrets, on tour 4 —an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars in a maze of narrow streets away from the tourist crowds.

Experience magical neon lights and hidden alleys bar hopping on this Namba and Dotonbori food tour. Get a taste of Osaka’s food and drink culture and meet the locals on tour 5 .  ’

Price per person based on two people attending a tour: $ = up to $89; $$ = between $90 & $129; $$$ = over $129. Some experiences offer discounted rates for groups of more people.

1. Osaka Street Food Tour

Discover the city’s best cuisine on this unforgettable private and personalised Osaka street food tour.

• Savour Osaka’s delicious soul and street foods, like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes)
• Explore the lantern-lit narrow streets and alleys of Namba in the heart of Osaka’s food scene
• Eat and drink like a local and learn about Osaka cuisine
• Sample different places to eat, like izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), street stalls and liquor stores
• Includes: A private and personalised tour, 6-8 dishes of Japanese and Osakan food, 2 drinks (alcoholic or soft), a walking experience and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Location: Dotonbori and Namba
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, flexible start time

Book Osaka Street Food Tour >>

2. Osaka Night Bites Foodie Walking Tour

Enjoy a fun and memorable night on this highly-rated small-group Osaka night food tour.

• Savour local delicacies like tonpeiyaki (pork omelette) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), and dote nikomi (slow-cooked beef in miso)
• Hang out with and chat with the locals over drinks at three tachinomiya (standing bars)
• Get off the beaten track and discover two distinct neighbourhoods
• Learn about food culture on one of the best food tours in Osaka
• Optional upgrade: 100g (around 3.5 ounces) of premium Kobe wagyu beef
• Includes: A whole dinner’s worth of food tastings from 3 restaurants, 3 drinks, a cultural walking tour and a train ticket
• Location: Kyobashi and Tenma
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm

3. Osaka Food Tour at Shinsekai with 10 Dishes

Enjoy an unforgettable gastronomic journey with passionate and fun-loving locals.

• Savour 10 delicious Osaka specialities like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls), plus karaage (fried spiced chicken), gyoza, dessert and more
• Experience retro Shinksekai’s neon-lit streets and hidden alleyways.
• Visit five local places to eat: Izakaya (Japanese-style pub), tachinomiya (standing bar), restaurant, market and backstreet stall
• Choose from Japanese drinks like sake, beer, chuhai (shochu and lemon) and highball (whisky and soda)
• Includes: 10 dishes from 5 places, 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and a guided walking tour
• Location: Shinsekai and Nishinari
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5.30pm

4. Ura Namba Food Tour: Eat Like a True Osakan

Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover Osaka’s delicious food culture on a private and personalised tour.

• Discover local specialities like okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and Osakan udon noodles, and fusion cuisine in this lively neighbourhood
• Explore this super-cool and buzzing area of Osaka to see how the locals entertain themselves
• Visit izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), tachinomiya (standing bars) and quirky bars
• Choose places to eat or leave it to your guide’s recommendations
• Includes: Private and personalised experience, 6-8 dishes of local food, 2 drinks (alcoholic or soft), walking tour and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Location: Ura Namba (area between Osaka-Namba and Nippombashi stations)

Book Ura Namba Food Tour >>

5. Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba

Discover izakaya (Japanese-style pub) food and drink culture with a local guide.

• Enjoy tasty food and drinks among Dotonbori’s bright neon lights and less-visited Ura Namba
• Try local specialities like kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls), and classic Japanese drinking snacks
• Visit three different izakayas with a knowledgeable local guide
• Meet fellow travellers on this fun food and bar crawl
• Includes: 8 deep-fried skewers, 1-2 dishes, 3-4 alcoholic or soft drinks, 3 izakayas and a walking tour
• Location: Dotonbori and Shinsekai
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 6pm and 7pm

Book Osaka Bar Hopping Tour >>

Now you’ve seen my top recommendations, let’s continue the best Osaka food tours, including Kuromon Market.

To help you decide the right tour for you, here’s a quick comparison of what’s included, where you’ll go and the price.

All Osaka food and drink experiences include walking tours with English-speaking guides.

6. Osaka Deep Backstreets Tour with Dinner

Discover Osaka, off-limits to tourists, learn about local history and enjoy a post-tour meal.

• Explore parts unseen, including a red-light district, gambling dens, yakuza strongholds, a fishing restaurant, dimly lit gritty Osaka backstreets and more
• Devour delicious Osaka soul food like nikudofu (slow-cooked beef) and tonpeiyaki (pork omelette), plus karaage (deep-fried chicken) and yakitori (chicken skewers) — with dinner option
• Taste local snacks, takoyaki (octopus balls), and gyoza from street food stalls
• Select the ‘Tour with Dinner’ option for an authentic meal
• Includes: A full dinner of 5-6 dishes, 2 snacks and a deep Osaka walking tour with a professional guide
• Duration and start time: 3-3.5 hours, 5.30pm
• Location: Shinseakai and nearby South Osaka neighbourhoods

Book Osaka Backstreets Tour >>

7. Osaka Night Food Tour

Enjoy a perfect adventure for food lovers to see Osaka at night.

• Savour Osaka’s tasty kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) from a Michelin-rated street food stall
• See Dotonbori’s dazzling neon lights and the Glico running man sign
• Visit an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) for regional and Japanese cuisine
• Meet the friendly locals for a beer or nihonshu (sake)
• Includes: Multiple dishes from four food stops, one drink and a guided walking tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 5pm

Book Osaka Night Food Tour >>

8. Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Savour Osaka’s soul foods on this great-value culinary journey.

• Eat delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) in their birthplace – Shinsekai
• See the shimmering neon lights and narrow streets on the Dotonbori food tour leg
• Tuck into takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Osaka-style savoury pancake)
• Visit a Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine and get insights into Japanese culture
• Includes: 6 skewers and two dishes (vegan menu available), 1 drink and a guided tour
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 4.30pm and 5.30pm

Book Osaka Local Foodie Tour >>

9. Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

Enjoy the thrill of cycling and a food trip on the road less travelled.

• Savour melt-in-your-mouth grilled wagyu beef in Osaka’s ‘Korean Town’
• Sample delectable dishes like sushi, skewers, udon and chijimi (spicy pancakes)
• Learn about Osaka’s knife-making history and treat yourself to a chef’s knife souvenir
• Enjoy the serenity at one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples
• Includes: Lunch (multiple food stops), 1 bottled water, cycle hire and a guided bike tour
• Location: Shinsekai, Tennoji and Tsurushashi
• Duration and start time: 3-4 hours (approx.), 9.30am

Book Osaka Food & Bike Tour >>

10. Osaka Backstreet Night Tour

Enjoy a fun-packed evening and the raucous atmosphere of Osaka nightlife.

• Eat dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese-style pub) and get to know your group
• Savour Japanese food like fresh sushi, grilled yakitori (chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls)
• See Dotonbori’s neon lights before heading off to some backstreet bars
• Meet friendly locals and have more drinks (not included) until late
• Includes: Dinner, 1 drink, introductions to more bars and a guided tour
• Location: Namba and Dotonbori
• Duration and start time: 3 hours (approx.), 6pm

Book Osaka Backstreet Night Tour >>

11. Ultimate Kansai Region Food Experience

Experience Kansai’s food and drink specialities from the regional gourmet hub of Osaka.

• Try Osaka cuisine like fugu (pufferfish) prepared by professionally trained chefs
• Sample Kyoto culinary delights such as wagashi (confectionery), sake, and green tea
• Savour the mouth-watering taste of marbled Kobe wagyu beef
• Discover the origins and cultures of the dishes you eat and the local drinks
• Includes: Private and personalised experience, 6-8 dishes, 2 beverages, walking tour and hotel meet-up (on request)
• Duration and start time:   3 hours, flexible start time

Book Ultimate Kansai Food Experience >>

Kuromon Market Food Tours

‘  Known as ‘Osaka’s kitchen’, Kuromon Market is a lively place full of delicious food stalls and restaurants. You’ll find all manner of seafood, meat and vegetables along its 580 metres length.

Experience Kuromon Market and eat local and Japanese dishes until you drop on great-value tour 12 . Discover Osaka’s extraordinary food culture and see six different food markets on unique tour 13 .

On tour 14 , you’ll explore the market and sample tasty food before visiting a shopping street for kitchenware. Enjoy Kuromon Market and its delicious dishes on budget-friendly guided tour 15 .  ’

12. Kuromon Market Food Tour

Sample 10-12 Kuromon Ichiba (Market) foods on an excellent-value experience.

• Savour Osaka delicacy fugu (pufferfish) and soul food classics okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Try Japanese food favourites like sashimi, sushi, scallops, wasabi cheese and sakura mochi (rice and red bean confectionary)
• Learn about the market’s history and culture on this Osaka food market tour
• Experience a working Japanese food market and see foods you didn’t know existed
• Includes: 10-12 food tastings (lunch), coffee or tea, unique traditional chopsticks and a guided walking tour
• Location: Kuromon Market (meet at Nippombashi Station)
• Duration and start time: 1.5 hours (approx), 2pm

Book Kuromon Market Food Tour >>

13. Osaka Food Markets from Local to Luxurious

Osakans say ‘ kuidaore ’, which means ‘to ruin oneself by extravagance in food’, and you’ll see why during this fascinating experience.

• Explore six diverse food markets where people shop and eat
• Visit the famous Kuromon Market and the locals alternative Tenjinbashi-suji
• Savour wagyu beef yakiniku (grilled meat) at ‘Korean Town’
• Sample dishes and whatever takes your fancy on this unique Osaka food tour
• Included: 6 Osaka food markets guided English-speaking tour and food recommendations
• Location: Namba, Temma, Tenjinbashi-suji, Tsuruhashi, Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji
• Duration and start time: 4 hours (approx.), 9am or 2pm

Book Osaka Food Markets Tour >>

14. Osaka Kuromon Market Food Tour with Tastings

Experience Kuromon Market like a local on this engaging tour.

• Enjoy various dishes from five market food stops
• Sample fresh sushi, wagyu beef skewers and local treats
• Learn about Osaka’s food culture and way of life from a local guide
• Visit Osaka’s ‘Kitchen Town’, Sennichimae Doguyasuji, an ideal place to pick up a Japanese knife
• Includes: Various dishes from 5 food stops, 1 drink and an English-speaking guided tour
• Location: Kuromon Market and Doguyasuji
• Duration and start time: 3 hours, 9am

Book Osaka Kuromon Market Tour >>

15. Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka

Explore Osaka’s culinary culture and discover unusual dishes you’ve never seen before.

• Sample tasty treats like fresh seafood, hotpot and street food
• Try Osaka’s most renowned soul food, takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Learn about the history, culture and cuisine of Kuromon Ichiba (Market)
• Uncover Japanese kitchenware and tableware for a souvenir to bring home at Doguyasuji
• Includes: 4-5 food samplings and a walking tour
• Duration and start time: 2 hours, 11 am

Book Kuromon Market Street Food Tour >>

Well, that’s a wrap! Please, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take an Osaka food tour. Its rich gourmet heritage makes it the perfect place to experience local, seasonal, and Japanese cuisine.

Images: kimishowota ,  Alexander Smagin

Osaka Food Tours

We have four unique and internationally awarded tours:

Backstreet Osaka Tour – Deep Osaka Food Tour  – Fisherman’s Market Tour  –  Hotspots & Hidden Gems of Osaka Tour  

Japan’s #1 food tour & “Top 20 Food Tours In The World in 2022” according to Trip Advisor for OUR tour business!

Our goal is to provide an amazing experience… EVERYTIME!

Why book with Osaka Food Tours?

• Our 5 unique tours are more than your standard food tour: mixing history, traditional Osaka food & drinks, fun facts and very local insights.
• We focus on fun and memorable food tours which you will rave about to your friends and family when you get home
• The perfect tours for those who want to become a true Osaka foodie
• We guarantee entertaining and insightful tours, blending historical info with quirky facts about Osaka and Osakan food culture 
• Our guides are enthusiastic, passionate & always add a dose of humor
• You’ll go to authentic eateries and hotspots rarely visited by tourists which you are likely to miss on your own

Our Internationally Awarded Tours

Hotspots & hidden gems osaka tour.

3rd most popular tour Osaka Airbnb (461 reviews) 4.88

・Featured on Britains channel 4 program “Jane McDonald: Lost in Japan”

・Kickstart your Osaka adventure with both the buzzing hubs & secret spots

・Discover the frenetic canal side entertainment district in all its glory

・Modern Osaka meets evocative, traditional hidden alleys

・A comprehensive guide of central Osaka in 3hrs with local recommendations

・Great value: comes with a drink, guidebook, snack & a friendly guide

Deep Osaka Food Tour

 #1 Food Tour in Japan  2022/23 Viator (740 reviews)

・Mentioned on 7th season of the uber famous foodie Netflix show “Someone Feed Phil”

・Eat & drink at some of the most flavorsome, authentic, stalls & restaurants

・Dive into pockets of deep Osaka where street food is alive & brimming

・Check out a world where Osaka cuisine & beverages meets local history

・Taste the entire range at street stalls, markets, izakayas, restaurants etc

・ Get a massive 10 dishes to savor over: Delicous, quality & authentic

Backstreet Osaka Tour (With Dinner)

 #1 Overall Experience in Japan on Trip Advisor  2022/23 (911 reviews)

・Featured on Youtube’s Reformatt show, 1.6 million views 

・Delve into a network of old, twisting, alleys full of charm & character

・Hear historic facts & encounters of a region controlled by the yakuza

・Venture into the intriguing ghetto area with a controversial past

・Explore a unique Taisho Era preserved historical red light district

・One hour at a traditional Izakaya, 5 dishes served. The “soul food” of Osaka din 

Local Fisherman's Market Food Tour

5th most popular tour Osaka Airbnb (351 reviews) 4.85

・Endulge in a myriad of Osaka food specialties:  10-13 unique items. 

・Sensory experience: sights, smells and tastes come alive in these markets

・Enjoy first class seafood to tea to local snacks and dessert sweets

・Come with an empty stomach…a gastronomic experience awaits

・We’ll give a detailed explanation of every dish…know what you eat

Things to know about our tours

• Tours are available everyday of the week. However tours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday fill up quick so please book early
• Our walking tours are not difficult however you will be walking for around 1km-4km depending on the tour so please bring comfortable shoes
• Vegetarian and pescatarian food options are available, however dairy free & vegan options are unfortunately not available 
• Both Alcohol & soft drinks are available. Just let our knowledgeable guides know which drinks you prefer
• If there is unsuitable weather we will notify you 3 hours before your tour starts and refund your pay in full
• Private tours can be booked by filling out the form below to contact the team
• Solo travelers are welcome! Over 50% of people come alone
• Local Japanese and foreign tourists alike are welcome however all tours are in English
• Children are also welcome, however the following tours might not be suitable: Deep Backstreets Osaka tour & Dinner With a Reformed Yakuza

Our professional guides have extensive knowledge of Osakan food, drinks, history and culture while adding a touch of humour and personality to each tour

Latest News

Our Osaka Food Tour on Netflix’s “Someone Feed Phil”

We received #1 & #2 experience in the whole of Japan, 2022

2 page article in Sydney Morning Herald

Contact Us: Osaka Food Tours, Inc.

Did you want a Private Tour? It’s available for all our tours. Did you have any other questions?

• Deep Backstreet Osaka Tour
• Osaka Food & Drinks Tour
• Hotspots & Hidden Gems Tour
• Kuromon Fisherman’s Market Tour
• Others / Private Tour

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Osaka Dotonbori Daytime Food Tour

Experience an unforgettable stroll through the historical food streets of Osaka and eat like a local in the city known as “Japan’s Kitchen.”

Please be aware there may be substitutions and changes on the food in this tour based on season and availability  From there, we will explore other nearby local neighborhoods, famous for modern and retro stores, and cafes,  along with open-air and covered shopping arcades. Finally, finish off with a tasty local street food dessert! As you say farewell to your guide you can explore more on your own in this fascinating part of town. We are able to take single traveler bookings for this tour. Please feel free to book directly and we will add you to an existing tour group.

Family-friendly pricing: If you are traveling with children and need a price adjustment- please email our team at [email protected] .

Inclusions:

• A walk through Dotonburi and surrounding areas by taking secret alleys off the main street.
• Explore back streets and small local shops
• Enjoy Osaka’s specialty, Kushikatsu (fried skewers) try Michelin-rated Takoyaki (octopus fritters).
• Take the back roads and to a hidden Izakaya and enjoy a seasonal lunch set while chatting with your guide and fellow guests and tasting a wide range of Japanese flavors.
• Finish up with a yummy local dessert!

Private Tours: For a more customized experience, make your tour private for an additional ¥19,500+ TAX. (min. 2 people). Please click the add-on button on your cart when you check out.

Strict start time policy:   We are sorry to say that if you are not able to arrive at the meeting point by the departure time, we will need to start the tour regardless and no refund can be provided. We are also unable to accommodate meeting up at any of the food stops . This is to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all guests and also to respect our relationships with restaurants.

5-minute grace period: We can only wait an additional five minutes after the starting time and then the tour will depart. In addition, please note that we cannot give directions or contact the guides on the phone once the tour begins.

Tour Schedule

Changes on tours: Applicable substitutions may be made due to public holidays, weather conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Single travelers: please email us directly and let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

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Tour Details

   4 food stops  yes,    one drink included yes,    regional  restaurant yes,   family-friendly yes,    street food tasting yes,    dessert included  yes, for this tour, it is possible (with advanced notice at the time of booking) to make adjustments to support the following dietary restrictions:.

Meeting Location

The meeting point is in front of Starbucks Tsutaya Ebisu-bashi in Dotonbori. 1-8-19 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka.

大阪府大阪市中央区道頓堀１丁目８−１９ (スターバックス TSUTAYA EBISUBASHI店) 542-0071

Our guide will be holding an Arigato Travel sign. The tour involves walking so please wear comfortable shoes.

Highlight of Our Trip? This Tour in Osaka! We had so much fun trying local flavors with our guide!

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10 Best Osaka Food Tours For 2024

By: Author Lora

Posted on Last updated: April 21, 2024

Looking for the best Osaka food tours? You came to the right place.

The vibrant city of Osaka is commonly referred to as the “Kitchen of Japan” and so is the ideal city to embark upon a food tour, sampling the delicious offerings of Japanese cuisine in the city. 

The best Osaka food tours can be found here for you to enjoy some of the best Japanese food available.  

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

In a Hurry? Here We Share an Overview of The Best Osaka Food Tours

Best Food Tours in Osaka

Best Osaka Food Tours

Going on a food tour is perhaps one of the best ways to truly enjoy Osaka. 

Osaka food tours are popular with tourists, both first-timers and seasoned travelers to Japan. 

Here are some of the best Osaka food tours you can take on to get the full authentic experience. 

Osaka Food Tour (10 Delicious Dishes at 5 hidden Eateries)

One of the hardest parts of looking for places to eat while traveling is finding the local favorites, the true hidden gems of an area. 

This Osaka food tour helps eliminate that difficulty by taking visitors to five “diamond in the rough” eateries in the Shinsekai area of Osaka. 

Shinsekai is well-known for its retro atmosphere and preservation of buildings and cultural icons of the 20 th Century. 

It is also the birthplace of a number of popular Osaka food delights. 

This tour moves among the marketplace and city streets of Shinsekai, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of food in a number of different settings, ranging from traditional street food to lively izakayas and more. 

10 different dishes are covered involving a number of food, such as gyoza (Japanese dumplings), oden (a traditional winter hotpot dish), and Takoyaki (one of Osaka’s claims to fame). For a list of more healthy Japanese food, click here.

Two drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are also included.

• 10 dishes at 5 different eating places 
• 2 drinks 
• Participants will be met at a nearby train station by the guide 

Pros & Cons

• All food and drink included in the price so you don’t need to worry about additional charges
• It can accommodate a maximum of 8 people, perfect for a friendly atmosphere
• Accessibility has been considered and the tour is wheelchair accessible

• Only two drinks are included despite visiting 5 places, so if you want anything to drink elsewhere it will have to be purchased separately.
• This tour covers ‘off-the-beaten-track’ local restaurants so it may not work for visitors looking for a more a more luxurious, high-end experience

Conclusion  

This tour is great for visitors looking to experience a range of local and authentic eating places. 

From street stalls to izakayas to the marketplace, this tour will provide a variety of experiences in a fairly short time without the uncertainty of navigating Japanese-only menus or unfamiliar food names. 

Check prices and availability: Viator

Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours

This tour is predominantly a walking tour with some stops at street food stalls along the way. 

There is also a post-tour dinner option that introduces visitors to Osaka’s “soul food,” meaning food that is filling, tasty, and served fast. 

The Deep Backstreet Osaka tour covers a range of different areas with a strong focus on the backstreets of Osaka. 

This includes red-light districts, abandoned districts, and areas that are not in any common guidebooks or tour itineraries. 

Here you can find all our Osaka itineraries:

• Best 2 day Osaka itinerary
• Amazing 1 day Osaka itinerary
• Hidden gems in Osaka

The guides provide interesting information about these areas and the history behind them as well as their place in current Japanese culture. The tour is quite informal with a casual atmosphere. 

This is exemplified through the end of tour planning. 

The dinner plans are quite flexible and it is completely optional as to whether you join or move on to other activities you may have planned. 

• Very friendly and informative guides able to provide interesting information about backstreet areas 
• Maximum 12 people per group
• Stops at street food stalls and optional soul food dinner after the walking portion of the tour 
• Unique insight into interesting parts of Japanese culture and history
• Able to explore areas that some visitors may not feel comfortable visiting alone
• Try street food and soul food
• Doesn’t cater to all ages
• Less focus on food so may not work for those looking to experience a wider range of cuisine
• Not a standard tourist experience, which could be a pro or con for different travelers

As this tour is more focused on drinking and nightlife, it may be best suited for those who are looking for a night out after an izakaya dinner. 

It is also not suitable for children. 

The flexibility of this tour makes it good for those who are open to whatever the night brings.

Osaka Backstreet Night Tour

This evening tour is centered on the popular downtown areas of Namba, Shinsaibashi, and Amemura. 

These areas are home to some of Osaka’s top bars, restaurants, and more, making it ideal for exploring the nightlife of this city. 

Highlights  

This Osaka Backstreet Night Tour starts at an izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub-style restaurant, to sample some popular food. 

These include yakitori (chicken skewers), takoyaki (fried octopus dough balls), and sushi. 

From here, the guide introduces visitors to a backstreet, ‘off-the-beaten-path’ bar where meeting locals and friendly conversation happen easily. 

Best things to do in Osaka at night.

The tour also passes by the famous ‘Glico running man’ sign which is a popular photo spot. 

These are the main pre-decided points of the tour. After this, the itinerary becomes more flexible and is up to the group to decide. 

Common follow-ups include various bars or small, local karaoke bars. 

One alcoholic drink is included. Any other drinks beyond that must be purchased separately. 

• Izakaya dinner 
• One drink 
• Small group – maximum of 8 people 
• Introductions to a number of interesting and unique bars 

Pros & Cons 

• Introductions to local bars and Japanese bar culture
• Dinner at a traditional izakaya – a staple of Japanese restaurant culture
• Friendly and welcoming guides
• Only one drink is included despite visiting multiple drinking venues
• Mostly drinking-focused, only one food venue

The flexibility of this tour makes it good for those who are open to whatever the night brings.  

Check prices and availability:

GetYourGuide

Eat, Drink, Cycle: Osaka Food and Bike Tour

This is a unique tour concept as it combines two of the most popular types of tour – cycling tours and food tours. 

The tour starts with bike rentals and moves through the retro area of Shinsekai. 

It makes a stop at Japan’s oldest temple, Shi-Tennoji then through Osaka’s Koreatown in Tsuruhashi. 

It finishes at one of Osaka’s most famous knife-making workshops.

The Eat, Drink Cycle Osaka tour is done relaxed in Shinsekai, with casual exploring and the first food of the day before really starting the cycling. 

There is then a stop at Shi-Tennoji, one of the first official Buddhist temples in Japan. 

This temple was established in 593 and has a number of beautiful views, ranging from the temple itself to the unique 5-storied pagoda, up to the accompanying gardens. 

After this, the tour will move on to Tsuruhashi, the Koreatown of Osaka. This area is well-known for its food culture, including Japanese food, Korean food, and fusion food. 

The tour will also explore the fish market in this area. 

Some of the food include locally made sushi, wagyu beef, yakitori, and more. 

The tour also includes a consultation at Tower Knives, one of the largest bilingual knife factory shops in Japan.  

• Bike rental 
• Lunch 
• Bottled water 
• Small group – maximum of 7 people 
• Visits different areas and food venues
• Incorporates some tourist spots as well
• Combines food tours and cycling tours, allowing visitors to do one tour instead of booking one of each
• Participants need to be fairly fit to keep up with cycling for a length of time – not suitable for young children, elderly people, pregnant people, people with medical conditions that may affect their ability to do the bike tours
• Some visitors may not like alternating a lot of exercise with a lot of food.

This tour would be ideal for visitors looking to experience Osaka in a different way. 

By combining a cycling tour and a food tour, visitors are able to enjoy a range of places, food, and scenery. 

It is recommended that participants have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.  

Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

This tour explores the popular downtown areas of Dotonbori and Namba, as well as the retro area of Shinsekai.

It combines a walking tour and a food tour to provide the best of both worlds.

The Osaka Local Foodie Walking Tour moves through Shinsekai and the famous tower of Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku Tower. 

This tower was once the tallest in Asia and was considered a symbol of the “new era” of Japan. 

It then moves into the Dotonbori district and along the Dotonbori canal, one of the busiest areas of Osaka. 

It also walks through Shinsaibashi-suji, one of the largest shopping streets in Osaka. 

It also includes a stop at the Glico running man sign, another of the symbols of Osaka. 

This journey gives participants a chance to try local Osaka food including takoyaki, okonomiyaki (a type of savory pancake), and kushikatsu (breaded and fried skewers). 

Participants are able to sample these foods as well as take some away for later. 

The tour also stops at a secluded temple along the way. 

• Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu 
• 1 drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic available) 
• Friendly and informative guide 
• Good combination of walking and food-based venues
• Variety of tourist destinations
• Food to sample as well as take away
• Only 1 drink included
• Only three types of food

This tour would be great for visitors looking to explore some of the most popular areas of Osaka with a knowledgeable and informative guide. 

The food included in the tour is very well-known as Osaka specialties, making this tour a true Osaka experience. 

Eat like a Local Street Food Tour

This tour provides a unique and personalized experience for each booking. 

Rather than joining a pre-decided itinerary, each participant is matched with a local guide based on personality and interests. 

The guide will then put together a variety of places to visit while keeping these interests in mind. 

The itinerary will include a selection of both local specialties, hidden gem food places, and venues that match well with the participant’s interests. 

This itinerary is flexible and open to changes even on the actual day of the tour. 

This Eat Like a Local Street Food Tour is a private and unique experience. You don’t have to work around anyone else or worry about food or venues you aren’t necessarily interested in. 

Six food tastings are included in the 3-hour tour. 

The tour takes place predominantly in the bustling Dotonbori district.

• 6 food tastings 
• 2 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) 
• Personalized itinerary 
• Private local guide 
• Personalized experience
• Private tour
• Catered to your individual interests
• For those who like the social atmosphere of tours and meeting other travelers, this tour may not work
• More communication needed ahead of the tour in order to provide information on personality and interests

This tour is perfect for those who feel their interests are often not catered to in standard tours or who are looking for a truly personalized experience. 

A private tour allows you to specify any definite inclusions or exclusions you want without worrying about affecting the experience of others. 

Check prices and availability: GetYourGuide

Nightlife Osaka Food Tour

This tour provides a good mix of nightlife venues and food venues. 

Finding the right balance between bars and restaurants can be difficult but this tour manages to combine the two well.

The Nightlife Osaka tour centers around the busy area of Dotonbori but focuses on the small side streets of the area rather than the loud and flashy main thoroughfares. 

A variety of dishes are included in this tour with four different food venues. 

This tour gives participants the chance to try kushikatsu, takoyaki, yakitori, and tempura.  

This is a good combination of local Osaka specialties and general Japanese cuisine. 

One drink is included (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and the guide can direct you to local drink specialties to try as well. 

The food venues also vary in type, from street food stalls to izakaya.  

When it comes to bars, the tour visits one of the many buildings which houses many small and unique bars. 

The bars in these buildings can seem endless with many bars on each floor of a multi-floor building. 

Visiting some of these bars is a unique and interesting experience, and a great way to experience Japanese nightlife.

• 4 food venues 
• 1 drink 
• Dessert 
• Visits to a number of bars 
• Well-balanced tour
• Variety of food and food venues included
• Unique bars
• Stays in one area

This tour would be a great choice for visitors who want to experience both the food culture and nightlife culture of Osaka. 

The tour is well-balanced and well-designed and should be suitable for most adults.  

Osaka 2-hour Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour  

This walking tour focuses on Kuromon Market, the true centerpiece to Osaka’s title “Kitchen of Japan.” 

The market has been in place since the Edo Period (1693 – 1867) and consists of around 150 various shops and stalls. 

Many of these businesses have been in place for multiple decades and have been passed down through families. 

Kuromon Market was once the main place for Osaka’s restaurants to buy their produce, meat, fish, and more. 

Nowadays, it still serves a number of restaurants but is also popular among consumers. 

There are many street food sellers in the area and shops selling various types of kitchenware. 

This tour consists of a casual stroll through the market while learning about the historical and contemporary context of Kuromon Market. 

It also includes 4-5 food samplings with the guide assisting participants in deciding which food stalls they would like to stop at. 

The guide will provide information and recommendations on which foods are interesting, unique, or special.  

• 4-5 food samplings 
• Tour photos 
• Advice on food and souvenirs from a local guide 
• Participants can choose which food they would like to sample
• Casual atmosphere
• Location has historical and cultural significance
• Shorter than most other tours
• Some participants may prefer more structure

This tour is best suited for visitors who are interested in the food culture in Osaka in a range of contexts. 

It is also best for those more interested in street food and food stalls rather than sit-down restaurants.

Osaka Bar Hopping Food Tour  

This tour takes participants around the areas of Dotonbori and Namba while introducing them to the quieter, more relaxed backstreets of these areas. 

A number of these side streets are full of izakayas, restaurants, and bars commonly frequented by locals. 

This allows participants to get a more authentic experience of food and nightlife culture in Japan.

The Osaka Bar Hopping Tour visits a number of izakayas before moving on to some bars toward the end of the day. 

The foods included are mostly standard izakaya food as well as some local Osaka specialties. 

This includes kushikatsu, yakitori, sushi, takoyaki, and more. 

Food is included in the price; however, it is recommended that you bring cash so you can purchase more if you want to. 

This is also applicable to buying drinks. 

• 8 skewers, 1 dish, 4 drinks OR 8 skewers, 2 dishes, 3 drinks 
• Authentic izakaya experiences
• Visits small izakayas enjoyed by locals
• Range of food and bars
• Multiple drinks included
• This tour is largely focused on izakayas, so visitors hoping to experience street food and other types of food may be disappointed
• Not much of the food is included in the price

This tour would be a good choice for visitors who are mostly interested in the izakayas of Japan.  

If you’re looking to experience the izakayas and bars that locals regularly choose, this tour is for you.  

Osaka All-inclusive Night Foodie Cultural Extravaganza  

This tour covers two areas that are commonly skipped in most tourist recommendations – Tenma and Kyobashi. 

These areas are largely commercial areas with Tenma also being home to one of Osaka’s largest shrines, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. 

The Osaka All-Inclusive Tour will visit 3 different ‘tachinomi’ bars. These are standing dining bars. 

Both food and drink are served but the customers stay standing. 

This type of bar-restaurant is rarely visited by tourists, making this a unique and authentic experience. 

The tachinomis serve a variety of food, including local specialties and common Japanese favorites. 

Some of the food included in this tour are sashimi, traditional vegetable dishes, kushikatsu, and dote nikomi (slow-cooked beef). 

There’s also an option to add Kobe beef to your orders. 

Three drinks are also included. 

The guide is able to provide interesting information about the area and culture along the way. 

Participants are able to meet and socialize with locals. 

• 3 restaurant visits 
• 3 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), 1 at each stop 
• Train fare between the two areas 
• Informative local guide 
• Unique authentic experience
• Two different areas, three different restaurants
• Three drinks included
• Some visitors might prefer the sit-down aspect of standard restaurants or izakayas
• As the tour covers two areas, there is a short train journey as well

This tour provides a unique experience as tachinomis are often skipped in food tours and the areas of Kyobashi and Tenma aren’t considered tourist hotspots. 

The stalls visited are small, local businesses with great care put into the food. 

This is a great tour for experiencing a range of food in an authentic setting.

Here you can find all our Osaka accommodations posts:

• Where to stay in Osaka
• Best ryokans in Osaka
• How to find the best Airbnb in Osaka

Conclusion 

With thousands of restaurants offering a huge variety of different food, it can be hard to narrow down which places to visit to have the best Japanese food experiences. 

Trying to locate authentic eating places while making the most of both local specialties and general Japanese cuisine can be overwhelming for even a seasoned traveler. 

Taking one of Osaka’s best food tours is a perfect way to get a range of experiences and try various Japanese food in an interesting setting. 

If you are looking for an overview of delicious Japanese street food, click here.

Here you can find all our Japan posts.

A Food Tour Through Osaka

Osaka is one of Japan’s top foodie destinations. From vibrant yatai market stalls and street food to Michelin-recommended restaurants, Japan’s third-largest city has a lot to offer hungry visitors. 

For a food tour through this city, you’ll want to make your way through Dotonbori and Namba in Chuo (central) ward and Umeda in Kita ward. Probably the first thing and last thing you’ll want to eat is Osaka’s prized okonomiyaki and takoyaki. Beyond the city’s famed street food, though, there are also some great alternatives. 

In this article, we’ll share some of the best things to eat in Osaka and how to make the most of a foodie trip in the city. 

Where to stay in Osaka 

Amidst the electric nightlife and with a whole list of restaurants and food spots to explore, you might be planning for an overnight stay or longer. To make the most of a food-oriented stay in Osaka, the major transport hubs Namba and Umeda, and central area, are ideal for choosing accommodation. 

You could check out Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring , Hotel Sobial Namba Daikokucho , or Osaka Dai-ichi Hotel for budget to mid-range hotels. For something a little more on the higher end, take a look at Hotel Granvia Osaka or The St. Regis Hotel Osaka . 

In terms of public transport, the red Midosuji subway line is a good one to look out for as it connects Namba downtown, Umeda downtown and Shin-Osaka Shinkansen bullet train station. This will help you with getting around town and to different food spots. 

Osaka’s specialty dishes

First things first, here’s a little introduction to two of the top must-try dishes in Osaka; okonomiyaki and takoyaki. 

Okonomiyaki - Visiting Osaka is almost synonymous with eating glorious okonomiyaki. This specialty is so popular that okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake “grilled as you like it” or “grilled whatever you like,” so the options are limitless. Filled with cabbage, fluffy batter, and ingredients like meat, seafood, vegetables and is most often topped with Kewpie mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes and aonori green seaweed. 

Takoyaki - Takoyaki or octopus balls is another one of Osaka’s most popular dishes. The freshly-cooked bite-sized takoyaki is perfect for a snack, accompaniment to a beer, or could even be a meal in itself if you have enough of them. 

Where to eat in Osaka - Kita Ward

Head to Hanadako for some incredible takoyaki. Watch as the chefs expertly prepare the octopus balls, adding batter and ingredients and twisting them into spheres as they cook through. 

The negi-mayo (green onion mayonnaise) takoyaki, topped up with plenty of spring onions and mayonnaise, is an unbeatable order. If it looks like it'll be a wait, don't worry; their long queues move pretty quickly as the service is fast and efficient.

This establishment used to run as a bar before 1954, and still retains nostalgic showa vibes. Kiji serves up modanyaki or "modern-yaki" which is a spin that doesn't use flour and instead combines yakisoba noodles with pork, squid and omelet-esque egg. The restaurant holds a Michelin Bib-gourmand mention, yet you'll only need to pay around ¥913 for a modern-yaki that has a beautifully light and fluffy texture. The constant queues out front are a telltale sign of its popularity.

Negiyaki Yamamoto Umeda

As you can guess from the name, Negiyaki Yamamoto Umeda specializes in negiyaki, the type of okonomiyaki filled with spring onions. Their most popular dish is the sugi-negiyaki, which has onion and gently stewed konnyaku (konjac) and beef.

Where to eat in Osaka - Chuo Ward

Dōtonbori in Chuo Ward is one of Osaka's most popular food destinations, with street food vendors lining the canal. Here, you can find everything from takoyaki (octopus balls) to okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and oden. 

Just inside an arcade in Dotonbori, you'll find Mizuno , running 70 years long as an okonomiyaki store. Their menu ensures premium ingredients, ranging from Western-style beef to seared scallops and vegetables. The batter is specially created with yam mountain potato for the ideal texture of tender and crisp okonomiyaki. Mizuno also humbly holds a Michelin Bib-gourmand recommendation, keeping guests coming back for more. 

Takoyaki Juhachiban

The number of food options available in Dotonbori might even feel a bit overwhelming, but try Takoyaki Juhachiban for some takoyaki that you won't regret. Juhachiban takes pride in their takoyaki's crisp outer and creamy inner texture. 

Established in 1946, Okaru is a long-standing okonomiyaki restaurant that's located 5 mins away from Namba Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line. Within the showa retro style interior, your okonomiyaki will be grilled on a hotplate in front of you. At Okaru, you can expect a hot pancake with a crisp surface. 

For something a little different 

Kemuri-ya and Flower

If you’re after a venue where you can sit and eat your meal at a slower pace, try out Kemuri-ya and Flower , a Chinese restaurant slash bar. You can expect wok-tossed stir fry vegetables, hotpot soup, and dumplings. The second floor houses a countertop bar to enjoy a cocktail or two. 

Moeyo Mensuke 

Want to try something a little different? Make your way to Moeyo Mensuke for rare duck ramen that’s been praised by locals and tourists alike. Located in an alleyway right next to Fukushima Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line, the long queues at the storefront speak for themselves. The highlight is Wakayama prefecture’s revered Kishu duck, accompanied by a rich broth and delicate noodles, which is a pleasant surprise for its reasonable price. 

You’ve ticked off okonomiyaki and takoyaki, so how about some grilled eel on a bed of tender rice? Shibato ’s specialty is just this, with eel being the star of the show. You’ll be able to savor this delicate and rich meat with a sweetened soy sauce that makes the perfect combination. 

Green Earth

If you’re in need of vegetarian options, head to Green Earth , one of the longest-running vegetarian restaurants in Osaka. Here, you can order vegetarian lunch specials, sandwiches, curry, pasta, pizza, salad, and dessert. With an English menu, this is a great option for easy ordering too!

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12D11N Osaka_Kanazawa_Tokyo and Hokuriku Arch Pass - Japan Forum

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Day1 - Day3 : Stay in Osaka (Visit Osaka, Kobe , Kyoto , Himeiji)

Day4 - Day5 : Stay in Kanazawa (Visit Shirakawago / Takayama )

Day6 - Day7 : Stay in Tokyo (Visit Tokyo)

Day8 : Stay in Kawaguchiko (Visit Mount Fuji )

Day9 : Stay in Hakone

Day10 - Day12 : Stay in Tokyo (Visit other places nearby Tokyo)

1. Planning the above route in view of ease of transportation. We were thinking of using the Hokuriku Arch Pass (Day1-Day7). Is this the most optimal approach?

2. For day8 and day9, we were thinking of traveling with only a backpack to Kawaguchiko and Hakone - Is there any way we can keep our luggage in Tokyo? Will it be too risky to book accommodation up front not knowing the weather condition? Our main aim is Mount Fuji. Or should be continue to stay in Tokyo and make day trip instead?

3. May I please ask if anyone has any good experience with AirBnb in Tokyo which is around the Shinjuku area?

D4/5 - I usually recommend 2 days in Kanazawa , a few hours in Shirakawa-go and o/n in Takayama . A round trip from Kanazawa to Takayama takes over 4 hours by Nohi express bus alone. Not a good idea to spend most of the day travelling on the road. Sunset is before 5pm in Dec.

Hokuriku Arch Pass - it does NOT payoff by simply travelling from Osaka to Tokyo via Kanazawa. Note that it does NOT cover any bus service. Buying single train/bus tickets would be cheaper.

https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2361_arch.html

2. it's indeed a bet though chances are higher in winter for clear days. In Japan , send luggage to hotels 1 day in advance, or 2 days to airport.

3. ensure AirBnB is within 10-15 min walk from major train/subway stations, convenience stores etc.

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