Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple
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Port
Osaka, Japan
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$109.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Join this tour for an orientation tour of Osaka, with a visit to its special attractions.
You will pass through Osaka's downtown area on the way to Osaka Castle. Built in 1583 and destroyed just 32 years later, the castle has undergone many reconstructions -- the most recent in 1931.
Next, you will visit Shitennoji Temple, built in AD 593 and believed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan. Although it has been rebuilt many times in its long history, excavations have shown the current layout to be very true to its original design. The temple's great southern gate, central gate, pagoda, main hall and lecture hall are constructed in a straight line -- a design layout called Shitennoji Cathedral style. The temple houses six National Treasures and many other items of cultural importance.
Notes:
A visit to the top of Osaka Castle requires a climb of 230 steps. Participants must walk approximately 15-20 minutes from the coach parking area to the castle. Photography and videography are not allowed inside Osaka Castle on the third and fourth floors. An elevator is available at the castle; however, the elevator does not provide access to the observatory on the upper level (8th floor). There is only one elevator available; expect delays. Tour requires climbing steep stairs and crossing uneven ground. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Part of Shitenno-ji Temple is currently undergoing restoration work; some of the buildings in the temples or shrines area may be closed for repair/renovation without prior notice. Tour order may vary.