25 May 2024

Our adventure begins – Exploring Osaka

We woke in the land of the rising sun on the first day of our Japan’s National Parks, Art & Culture expedition and enjoyed a buffet breakfast before beginning our adventure. 

Our first stop was the scenic Minoh Park. Despite just 9.6 square kilometres (963 hectares) and one of Japan’s smallest National Parks, Minoh Park is an oasis just minutes from the city centre. Our walk to its famous waterfall took us alongside a crystal-clear stream under the canopy of lush forest home to Monkeys and a variety of birds heard through birdsong. Passing historic homesteads and temples selling souvenirs and snacks, including a local delicacy of battered maple leaves, we walked up the hill alongside the stream.

Some of us were fortunate to have a rare sighting of a large Japanese Giant Salamander under the fast-flowing water – its incognito markings making it easy to miss alongside the canal’s wall. Reaching the falls, we were rewarded with a red bridge and the impressive 33-metre-high falls named after the farming technique winnowing (which separates grains from husks), soft serve ice creams and deliciously refreshing, and well-earned, Yuzu Beer.

It was then off to Osaka’s famed dining district Dotonbori, exploring its streets full of hungry diners watched by towering dragon, crab and cow decorations before enjoying a traditional lunch. We then visited Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. The stunning details of the 16th-century shogunate castle glinted in the sun as we explored the moats and castle grounds. Making our way to the castle, we observed its golden tiger motifs before entering and climbing the 8-stories to the observation deck where 360-degree views of Osaka Castle Park, the Osaka Plain and the city stretched out to the horizon, while the exhibition rooms on each story showcased authentic historical artefacts and brought to life the castle’s rich history.

We then returned to the Port of Osaka to board our new home away from home, Heritage Adventurer, for the upcoming adventure.

Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions