2027 Japan Mystery Cruise

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 30-minute drive from Osaka port, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500's to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guided tour of the castle, proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Built in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea.  It displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Only two other shrine architecture styles are also considered purely Japanese: Shinmei-zukuri as seen at the Ise Shrines and Taisha-zukuri as seen at Izumo Taisha.  Transfer to the airport.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and videos are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina.  From the parking lot to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes and conservative clothing for the temple.

Explore Japan's third largest city, Osaka, on this intriguing half-day tour. Today, this modern port city combines historical and cultural attractions with all the delights of a Japanese urban marvel. Following a 30-minute drive from Osaka port, see the impressive landmark, Osaka Castle. One of Japan's most famous castles, it played a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Built on a plot of land almost one mile square, the castle compound contains 13 structures, designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government. The central castle building is 5 stories on the outside and 8 stories on the inside. Of particular interest are the tower's ornamental ride-end roof tiles, and bas-reliefs carved in the shape of crouching tigers, all gilded with gold. An engaging museum occupies the interior of the building, tracing the history of the castle from the late 1500s to the present day, and housing Osaka's most significant historical and cultural artifacts. After a guided tour of the castle, proceed to Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Built in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea.  It displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Only two other shrine architecture styles are also considered purely Japanese: Shinmei-zukuri as seen at the Ise Shrines and Taisha-zukuri as seen at Izumo Taisha.  Transfer to your Windstar hotel.

Please note: This tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking with a number of steps to negotiate. Photography and videos are not permitted inside Osaka Castle (3rd & 4th floors). Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina.  From the parking lot to Osaka Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Bring local currency, sunscreen and a hat and wear comfortable walking shoes and conservative clothing for the temple.