Osaka's Majestic Past: A Journey Through Time at the Historic Castle

• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Step into the heart of Osaka’s history with an exclusive tour of the city’s iconic Castle, where ancient tales come to life. Experience the grandeur of the past, discover the secrets held within its walls, and capture the breathtaking cityscape from its summit.

Destination

Osaka, Japan

Category

Art Culture Tours

Duration

2.5 hours

Transport mode

Walking tour

Available languages

English, Indonesian, 日本語, Melayu, Español

Included

• Private Guide
• Entrance Tickets to Castle
• All Withlocals Tours are Carbon Netural

What you can expect

Choose your local

Get to know these 6 passionate locals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents. Choose your favorite, check their availability, and book to create an unforgettable adventure tailored to you.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at Outside Lawson S Otemae North - Osaka to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. Beautiful Surroundings

   To better understand what you’ll see inside the Osaka Castle, your local host will start by showing you other hidden gems around the attraction. That way, you can get to know more about Osaka and the Castle for a perfect introduction to your tour

4. How It Works

   Before entering the Castle, meet your host and get an introduction to your tour.

5. Ahead of the Crowds

   On this tour, follow your local host’s lead and spend time inside the Osaka Castle discovering its highlights and hidden gems

6. Inside the

   Once you are inside, follow your local host’s insights as you check out the must-sees, as well as the hidden gems that not many know about. Be part of an enriching tour that will satisfy your curiosity and answer many of your questions!

7. Keep Exploring

   After the time with your host is over, you can either stay inside the attraction and keep exploring by yourself or say goodbye outside the attraction where your host will point out other spots to explore in Osaka

8. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Banjing

(About local Maria)

4 February 2025

We had an amazing experience with our tour guide during our visit to Osaka! When my son accidentally lost his wallet at a train station, we were struggling to communicate with the lost and found personnel, who only spoke Japanese. We decided to hire a local guide, and we are so glad we did. Our guide went above and beyond, speaking with the lost and found team on our behalf, and when the wallet wasn’t initially found, she didn’t give up. She worked with the train station staff and was able to help us locate the wallet. We were incredibly relieved and grateful. Afterward, she treated us to an insightful tour of Osaka. Her knowledge of the city’s history was impressive, and she shared fascinating details that you won’t find in any guidebook—these were real local insights that made the experience even more special. We feel so fortunate to have met such a dedicated and knowledgeable guide, and we highly recommend her to anyone visiting Osaka. Thank you for everything! This highlights both the practical help she provided and the enriching tour experience!100% truly Amazing Person!!!

remy

(About local Naoki)

20 January 2025

Wonderful guide ! He accepted to change the date at the last miment because our flight was cancel and delayed. He know everythings about Osaka castle and Japan history! And he was very very kind with us all the time ! Thanks Naoki !Amazing guide

Carole

(About local Hiroki)

15 January 2025

Hiroki lead my family from our Air BNB to experience Osaka Castle. We travelled as a local on the metro, spared our legs by taking the Osaka train to explore the gardens and the walk up to the first bridge and led us straight through the castle gates. He shared with us his love of Osaka and its history and where to get the best range of ramen in one spot. He was able to answer many questions we had from the museum that should we had gone alone we would not have had answers to. Would recommend a local guide to get those insights.Awesome guide

leo🇸🇬 Singapore

(About local Sebastian)

29 December 2024

Sebestian was an amazing guide, he took care of my Aging mums leg issue and plan the trip so well and even arrange a lift service for her. And he is such a history geek that he shares interesting stories of Japan. Would be looking forward to plan another trip with him in a few months time SUCH AN AMAZING GUIDE

Rianna

(About local Hiromi)

15 December 2024

Hiromi was a wonderful guide, both of Osaka castle and the broader city. We first spent time learning about Osaka castle, then ventured to other areas of Osaka that Hiromi recommended. She took us on a tour of places we never would’ve found otherwise, including a very local shopping area with izakayas. Overall it was a great trip and Hiromi is a fantastic guide!Wonderful local tour of Osaka

Scott🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

13 June 2024

Sebastian was just a fun vibe. Very relaxed and did well with my elderly mother.Such a fun time!

Elena🇺🇸 United States

(About local Naoki)

15 May 2024

We had a great time with Naoki visiting Osaka castle. He went above and beyond to make sure our needs are met. He was very engaging and knowledgeable. He showed us another shrine in the neighborhood and walked us to a sushi place we were planning to have lunch at. Such a delight! Amazing experience!

Robbie 🇺🇸 United States

(About local Naoki)

9 March 2025

We had a wonderful day with Naoki. We asked for a tour to include Kyoto and Osaka with a focus on the people and their culture. Naoki met us just off the cruise ship and guided us through the train systems to Kyoto. This was important, so that we would learn to use the electronic kiosks and find the correct train/subway on our own in the future. We explored the markets, streets, temples and shrines of Kyoto. All the while receiving an enjoyable explanation of all that we saw. In the afternoon, Naoki guided us to the various restaurant districts in Osaka. He took us to his favorite restaurants and ordered the dishes that define Osaka. We concluded the day with Naoki escorting us back to our starting point. It was an enchanting eleven hour day with a guide who enjoys sharing his home town with visitors.Wonderful day in Kyoto and Osaka

Lisa🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

7 March 2025

We had such a wonderful time with Sebastian. He had so much knowledge about each stop and created the best schedule to avoid the crowds and make the best use of the time. The meals we had were really special and highlighted local ingredients for super reasonable prices. I would highly recommend him as a guide. Amazing day!

Victoria

(About local Naoki)

7 March 2025

We had a great time with Naoki. He was so knowledgeable and his information and passion was clear from the get-go! We enjoyed some wonderful kushikatsu at the beginning of our tour and then made our way through Namba to Dotonbori. We were shown both a Shinto and Buddhist shrine and educated about the difference between the two. Naoki accompanied us on the subway back towards our hotel and even helped us find a restaurant for dinner after. Cannot recommend him highly enough! Great, informative evening!

Juan🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Naoki)

7 March 2025

We had the absolute pleasure of having Naoki as our guide for our Samurai Heritage tour in Osaka, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience! From the very beginning, Naoki’s warm personality, deep knowledge, and passion for history made this tour truly special. Instead of visiting the Osaka Museum of History, we explored Osaka Castle, and Naoki made the visit incredibly engaging. He shared fascinating stories about the castle’s history, the samurai legacy, and little-known details that brought the past to life. Beyond the historical insights, Naoki was incredibly accommodating, adjusting the pace and content of the tour to match our interests. His recommendations for other sights and local food spots were also fantastic! If you’re considering booking a tour with Naoki through WithLocals, do it! His expertise, enthusiasm, and genuine kindness will make your Osaka experience unforgettable. We highly recommend him to anyone looking to explore the city’s rich history with a knowledgeable and engaging guide.An Unforgettable Osaka Tour

Rosy

(About local Maria)

6 March 2025

Maria was an absolutely fantastic guide. She is incredibly kind and knowledgeable. We tried so many different foods - which was especially great as we were working with some dietary requirements. We saw parts of the city we would not have come across by ourselves and were just so happy with the whole experience. Wonderful tour!

Unknown

(About local Hiromi)

4 March 2025

Hiromi gave us intro to Osaka specific foods, took us around and also shared a lot of nuance around culture. Being that she was a season traveler herself she loved our questions and was eager to share Udon and sushi spots were delish! Time with Hiromi was excellent!

Eric

(About local Hiromi)

2 March 2025

Hiromi was an excellent guide around Osaka! She not only brought us to some very delicious food spots, but she was very knowledgeable about the history of the food. Also, she was very nice, and me and my partner had a great time chatting with her. ありがとうございます！Amazing Food Tour in Osaka

Deanna

(About local Naoki)

2 March 2025

We had an incredible day with Naoki! He was incredibly knowledgeable about Osaka and gave us some excellent suggestions with detailed recommendations for our remaining time there. He was super flexible and helpful and showed us the highlights of Osaka. He also introduced us to takoyaki and okonomiyaki (delicious!). Do not hesitate-- book with Naoki!Amazing day with Naoki

Francisco

(About local Ricky)

2 March 2025

We spent a wonderful day with Ricky exploring everything Osaka has to offer, while at the same time learning about its rich history. Highly recommended!!Historical tour with Ricky

Kristyn

(About local Naoki)

1 March 2025

After traveling in over 50 countries, my husband and I have experienced a lot of guides, and I can honestly say that Naoki was the very best guide we have ever had! I with I had booked a lot more time with him! We did the 10 tastings of Osaka with Naoki and all the food and drink choices were fantastic, but this was so much more than a food tour! Naoki has an incredible amount of knowledge about Osaka and Kyoto and Japan in general, but we also had so many interesting conversations about his life growing up and our cultural comparisons. As we walked between restaurants, Naoki made sure to make a lot of interesting stops at shrines and other important places in the city. Naoki was also constantly making sure to take photos of us without us having to bring it up. The next day Naoki was also emailing us more information about stores and restaurants we had discussed and responded very quickly when I asked for recommendations in Kyoto. I truly can’t say enough about what a wonderful time we had! It was the highlight of our 3 weeks in Japan. By the end of our night with Naoki, we felt like we had made a lifelong friend! Absolutely Amazing Guide!!!

daniela🇲🇽 Mexico

(About local Naoki)

23 February 2025

We absolutely loved taking the food tour with Naoki! He is such a kind and friendly person, and he took us to truly amazing places to eat while sharing great local recommendations. On top of that, his tour was filled with fascinating insights about Japanese culture, which made the experience even more special. If we ever come back to Osaka, we would definitely love to book another tour with him!Great experience full of great food!

Bruce🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Naoki)

19 February 2025

Naoki was a lovely, softly spoken, humble person, who took us across at least 4 locations in the city giving us a holistic perspective. As someone who grew up in the centre of the city, he knows every part of it. He took us from the Town Hall, local Shinto Shrine, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dontonbori. He was so generous with his time, that we went past the 3 hours. (Just make sure you have an ICOCA card for the trains, we travelled by train between locations). We learnt a tremendous amount about the history of Osaka, the Shinto and Buddhist religions, the culture of the city, shopping areas, and of course food. Aoki, as someone who has spent his lifetime in the city, is a great person to lead a With Locals experience. Fantastic insights from an Osaka native

Anna🇳🇿 New Zealand

(About local Hiromi)

15 February 2025

We had 10 tastings experience with Hiromi and I can highly recommend it. We have read so many posts and watched many videos about Osaka eateries and street food, but it is so different to what Hiromi showed us. The food was amazing with every place and dish carefully chosen to wow us. I would definitely do it again if I come back to Osaka. Unforgettable experience in Osaka

Arlene

(About local Allysa)

14 February 2025

My day with Allysa was one of the best highlights of my trip to Japan! She was immediately aligned with my hopes and expectations of visiting the lesser traveled roads of Kyoto. As a fellow photographer, she showed me beautiful places without the typical crowds. I highly recommend her as a guide, who will provide a memorable experience of the hidden gems in Japan.Great day with Allysa!

Michael

(About local Naoki)

7 February 2025

Naoki-san is a great guide. He met us at our hotel in Osaka and took us to Kyoto via public transportation/trains. This was my third trip to Japan and my son's first. We both learned a lot from Naoki-san. He answered all our questions (however bizarre) very calmly and patiently. He navigated the streets and alleys of Kyoto expertly as we visited numerous shrines, temples and gardens. He even found vegetarian/vegan restaurants to satisfy my son. It was truly a fantastic tour. Fantastic tour of Kyoto with Naoki-san.

Harlan

(About local Hiromi)

4 February 2025

We finished our tasting tour with Hiromi, last night. She was knowledgeable and an excellent teacher throughout the experience but what really made it special was that she customised the experience on the fly as she learned about what we wanted to get out of it. We got to try new things and Hiromi kept taking us to better and better spots as the night went on. She delivered a truly wonderful tour.Horimi is something special!

Dushan

(About local Naoki)

28 January 2025

Naoki is super knowledgeable and was very informative. Took us to several local spots and took lots of pictures for us. We really enjoyed the experience and was nice to eat food that wasn’t the standard tourist offerings and more what the locals eat. Amazing time with Naoki!

Sallim🇸🇬 Singapore

(About local Naoki)

27 January 2025

Naomi was always humble and accommodating. He was able to teak the schedule to our needs. Good insights into the Osaka castle area and Dotonburi area. We enjoyed the walk and the history given. Thank you very much. An enjoyable evening in Osaka

Lucas

(About local Allysa)

20 January 2025

We had a great time walking around Osaka with Allysa. She was very pleasant to be with and very knowledgeable about Osaka now and the history. Allysa changed the itinerary to our requests and we did everything we wanted together. Made many pictures together.and became friends in only 3 hours time. Great and personal experience with Allysa

Meghan🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Naoki)

18 January 2025

The tour with Naoki was great! He was a formidable host! Punctual, kind and super insightful! In addition to the food he also showed us some hidden temples and shrines. He took the time to explain to us the rituals and meaning if those places ! We memorable experience, thank you very much ! discovering Osaka food and little corners

C

(About local Naoki)

17 January 2025

From the moment Naoki met with us, it was clear that this would be a great and personalised experience. The food, drink and venue choices were explained and clarified. All were so tasty and of quality This was such a great way to be quickly introduced to aspects of Japanese / Osaka food and eating culture. But that was only the half of it. Naoki also took us to and introduced us to some non food places of interest with both modern, historic and cultural relevance. A caring and generous host: Naoki provided a perfect welcome to Osaka. Naoki was a perfect host.

Markos

(About local Maria)

12 January 2025

Maria was very flexible and willing to accommodate all our needs. She took us around different neighborhoods and areas of Osaka. Some of the places were pre-booked others were chosen on the spot depending on we wanted. A great host and guide to take you around townGreat Food Tour with Maria

Cornelius🇺🇸 United States

(About local Naoki)

12 January 2025

We had a wonderful time with Naoki on the tastings tour. He let us customize our time and asked great questions to ensure a great tour, The tour was amazing - we enjoyed his company, the food, the background information, learning about local history and the food itself. He gave great context and even pointed out small, but wonderful details - like the Kimchi in this restaurant was made with honey - "Osaka style." We're even going back to a restaurant we thoroughly enjoyed with Naoki - and would probably go back to more of them if could stay longer. Naoki was friendly, warm and gracious and even provided some additional restaurant recommendations. He's a gem! Don't hesitate to book with Naoki! Amazing and fun tour

jess🇺🇸 United States

(About local Naoki)

6 January 2025

Naoki was a great guide! We had just a day in Osaka so wanted to make sure we got the full immersion. He customized the tour for us, made sure we were comfortable with travel plans and picked us up from the station. He speaks great English and had lots of fun facts and cultural info to share. Great guide!

cn66hs7gjb🇶🇦 Qatar

(About local Sebastian)

5 January 2025

This is the second time we booked Sebastian. He is funny, kind , knowledgeable and flexible. Personalized the tour to suit us and really felt like walking with a friend, not a formal tour guide ! He is great, highly recommend him Booked Sebastian again!

Natan

(About local Naoki)

1 January 2025

What a pleasure it was to tour various Osaka neighborhoods and sample local specialties with an interesting, kind and engaging Osaka native. Naoki steered us through the market where we tried fugu, and to simple and authentic local restaurants specializing in cabbage pancakes, octopus fritters and kashi-katsu (panko-breaded skewers). It was all delicious. He shared his knowledge and personal experience of Buddhist and Shinto beliefs and practices, and of what makes Osaka special and how it got this way. He ably accommodated our shopping requests on the fly, too. What made Naoki a truly outstanding guide was not just his expertise and comfortable communication skills, but his ability to exude compassion and patience in all interactions, quickly making everyone at ease with him. Naoki’s enthusiasm for Osaka was infectious, and as a result our day was filled with delicious food, laughter, and spectacular views. Our whole family (two high-schoolers and two college students) enjoyed our time with him very much and would strongly recommend him to other families.

Lucinda🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Naoki)

1 January 2025

We were a group of two families travelling together for the first time to Osaka. I cannot recommend Naoki enough! It was a fabulous introduction to the culture and food of Japan. Naoki has excellent English and was extremely knowledgeable but also made the tour fun for the teenagers. Don’t hesitate to hook this. Excellent experience. The best tour with Naoki!

J.🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

1 January 2025

It was fine, but it wasn't awesome. Some of the narrative felt phoned in and he unfortunately had only a little insight to the depth of Osaka's rich cultural history. Wasn't a great match for us unfortunately. Delivered but ok

Richard🇺🇸 United States

(About local Allysa)

1 January 2025

Friendly, knowledgeable. Was able to start a little earlier for us as we were in Osaka earlier than planned. Got to see Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori. Made several stops to shop, and sample street vendor and food stall wares. Definitely recommend takoyaki, kobe skewers, dorayaki, among other delicious foods. Great communication via Withlocals and Whatsapp. Highly recommend!Great Osaka intro - a day trip from Kyoto

Marjolein

(About local Naoki)

30 December 2024

Great experience!

cn66hs7gjb🇶🇦 Qatar

(About local Sebastian)

30 December 2024

I really enjoyed the tour, Sebastian knew a lot of information about Japanese history and culture, he was flexible and personalized the trip to suit us. We had a train to catch so wanted to finish the tour near our hotel and he planned it that way! He was kind & funny Enjoyed the tour

Kara🇯🇵 Japan

(About local Naoki)

28 December 2024

We had a great time touring Osaka with Naoki! He did a great job explaining the history and cultural aspects. Naoki provided the most thorough explanation that we've heard of Shinto traditions. He was great with my three kids and very flexible. He went above and beyond ensuring we knew where to get to our next stop after the tour. Top marks and happily recommend his tour!Wonderful tour!

becci🇭🇰 Hong Kong

(About local Naoki)

21 December 2024

My husband and I did the 3 hour 10 tastes of Osaka walk with Naoki. He was a fantastic, knowledgeable and professional guide. We had a great time visiting 3 restaurants with him, eating great food and learning more about local culture and history. He gave us insight into the city and its food which we could not have got without a local. He's a warm and attentive host. Highly recommended. A warm and knowledgeable host

Norm🇮🇲 Isle of Man

(About local Naoki)

21 December 2024

We had a very enjoyable and informative time with Naoki in Osaka. We were travelling with three children, including a toddler which can be tricky and off putting to some guides, but Naoki was extremely helpful and understanding. We even had to stop him from carrying our stroller 😀. Naoki had a very deep knowledge of Osaka and Japan in general, answering all our questions precisely. Very personable and efficient, not just during the tour but in the lead up to our arrival too. Highly highly recommended. Enjoyable time in Osaka

Danny

(About local Hiromi)

19 December 2024

Hiromi was super friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. She was also very flexible in accommodating dietary requests and requirements. Fun and informative

Iman

(About local Ricky)

18 December 2024

One of the highlights was visiting Mount Fuji, standing tall and majestic, surrounded by vibrant autumn colors. It was surreal to see this iconic peak in person! Ricky was incredibly kind and welcoming, always ready to help and share Japan culture. I will never forget him who patiently taught me the art of choosing the perfect gyu-katsu—delicious and fun!Golden Route

Marion

(About local Maria)

18 December 2024

I went on a tour of Osaka today with Maria who I think was the perfect guide. We were battling the elements as we trekked through the city for 8 hours! I told Maria I had no real direction or itinerary for Osaka, the only thing I really wanted was to try a few very specific kinds of food jiggly cheese cakes and takoyaki octopus balls). I let her know that my only day in Osaka was in her hands and she did not disappoint. She took me to some really cute spots known mostly by locals, down several streets where I could buy some cool souvenirs, and even to a ghibli shop where I could pose for a picture with a Totoro!Osaka with Maria! A great day trip in the area!

Ann🇺🇸 United States

(About local Hiromi)

15 December 2024

We had a great time with Hiromi. She took us to so many local sites including Osaka castle, shrines, and a temple. She also took us to some great food spots and gave us great advice that we used for the rest of our trip. We had so much fun on the shopping street that she took us to that we went back the next day. I was able to get a kimono there at an excellent price. I did not see a better price for the rest of our trip. What a fantastic experience!Excellent Morning in Osaka

Ken🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Naoki)

15 December 2024

Family of four (with 2 late teens sons). We booked an Osaka to Kyoto day trip, and Osaka Highlights and Hidden Gem the next day with Naoki. Our sons commented that Naoki felt like a cousin from overseas taking us around. Apart from Naomi’s local knowledge and experience, his genuine warmth and kindness made this a memorable experience! Like travelling with your local cousin

Rod🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Naoki)

13 December 2024

We had a wonderful 5 hour Osaka tour with Naoki who struck the right balance between being informative and charming. We hit all the high spots in Osaka - literally with the sky tower and castle and also with the fun of local places to eat, particularly many of the delights of the fish market. Naoki was an exceptional guide and clearly a warm and engaging person. You won’t regret asking him to guide you around Osaka. Thank you Naoki - Highly recommended

Ester

(About local Allysa)

11 December 2024

It was great going around Kobe with Allysa. She was very knowledgeable about the area and gave us lots of hints and tips for our stay. Plus showing us Kobe's hidden gem (Sorakuen garden) Will definitely use your services again!!Great Introduction to Kobe

Christina

(About local Ricky)

9 December 2024

I cannot recommend Ricky enough for anyone planning a trip to Osaka, Fuji, and Tokyo! He went above and beyond to design an itinerary that perfectly suited every member of my family. From adventurous activities for the kids to serene spots for my parents to relax, every detail was thoughtfully planned. Ricky’s knowledge of local hidden gems and special dishes was incredible. He introduced us to flavors and meals we could have never found on our own, and every recommendation exceeded our expectations. His passion for creating memorable experiences truly shines through in everything he does. Thanks to Ricky, this was not just a trip but a lifetime memory for our family. If you’re looking for a personalized and unforgettable experience, Ricky is the one to callOsaka-Fuji-Tokyo Magical Christmas

Toby

(About local Naoki)

4 December 2024

Our tour with Naoki was absolutely brilliant! The man is a legend and couldn’t do enough for us. Naoki went the extra mile every chance he could. The tour was well thought out and not a dull moment for the whole 3 hours! Please book with Naoki we cannot rate this man highly enough! Thank you Naoki for a wonderful evening! Dont miss out!