Excursion Katsuo-ji temple & kuromon: buddhist reflections and local market tour at Osaka

Explore the legends and local shoppes of Osaka during this bespoke, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Osaka, Katsuoji Temple, Complimentary Daruma Doll

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Katsuoji Temple, an historic temple founded in 727 A.D. According to legend, Katsuoji has come to be known as the ‘winning temple’ because its faithful came here to pray for success or victory in their endeavors. Katsuo-ji is also called the ‘Winning Daruma Doll Temple’. A ‘Daruma’ is a round doll with no eyes. Followers purchase them, make a wish, and draw one eye on their dolls. When their wish comes true, they draw the other eye on their dolls and return them to the temple. During your visit, see hundreds of Daruma dolls lined up in a small hall. Following your visit, receive a complimentary Daruma doll, then re-board your coach and transfer to the Kuromon Market.  

Kuromon Market, Diverse Shoppes, Food, Clothing, Housewares

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour. This bustling, approximately 1,903-foot-long (about 580-metre-long) shopping street houses many as 170 shoppes selling fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, meats, traditional sweets, clothing, and housewares. Kuromon is called Osaka’s ‘Minami Kitchen’, as perishable foods account for half of the goods on sale in the street. Due to the freshness and variety of its food, Kuromon is a beacon for profession chefs and locals, especially on Saturday when all its shoppes hold sales. Following a guided walking tour of the market, enjoy some free time for independent shopping and exploration. Afterward, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Osaka, Katsuoji Temple, Kuromon Market

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 10 steps at the Kuromon Market, and 200 steps at the Katsuoji Temple. Walking at the Kuromon Market is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Additional beverages are available at the restaurant at each guest’s own expense. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 30 minutes to one hour in each direction. The tour sequence may vary. The main Tori gate in the Shrine is under renovation until November 2024.