Osaka in One Day: History, Food, and Hidden Culture

Khas is knowledgable about Osaka and we enjoyed the trip and his company. He has fluent English. He managed the train transport efficiently using our cash, as we didn't have a transport card. Unfortunately the day was quite hot and we finished the tour a little early as the weather was taking its toll on us. Would highly recommend Khas. Sandra and Ron

We had a fun day with Khas. It was part local sites, history and food tour. We were impressed with his knowledge of history as we toured Osaka. He was also eager to give us recommendations for other activities and food. We began by checking out Osaka Castle and Khas talked about some of the history of the castle. We then made our way over to Dontonburi street where all the food life is in the city, with colorful signs and billboards. We eventually made our way to Kuromon Market and ate a variety of foods. We started with some Takoyaki (octopus balls) that Osaka is quite well known for. We also had some fried puffer fish as well (none of us were brave enough to try it sashimi style). It is one of the few places that prepares puffer fish properly for eating which is the only reason we all tried it. We also ate some of those expensive strawberries. But come on when do you ever see all white strawberries?! We then ate some okonomiyaki, Osaka style, which was tasty. We then made another pit stop at Osaka tower to check it out. Also checked out the only pringles store right next to it. We did bounce over to the Umeda Sky Building that has an observation deck that we went up into. It was another great view over the city. After all our adventures we waved goodbye to our Khas as he left us with a recommendation for our dinner that night: Kushikatsu. He also recommended visiting Nara, which we did a few days later. Highly recommended!

We had just one day to visit the Kitchen of Japan, and Khas was the perfect guide for us. Knowledgeable, energetic and flexible… he took us to see all the areas on his list, and allowed us to linger where we wanted more. He made a quick last minute adjustment when we needed to move our meeting point, and was there waiting for us with a smile. He integrated discussions of history and religion into his narrative about the city sights we were enjoying. He sized up our food interests and immediately selected the lunch spot that would be perfect for us, and we had a delicious experience with a variety of foods. He allowed us to choose our modes of transportation as the day unfolded, and moving through the city was effortless with him. Choose him as your guide; come prepared with your preferences (and your appetite); and get a great feel for Osaka.