The Experience
●Tour schedule (8 hours, includes lunch)
08:00 Meet your Deep guide at the Nankai Kishiwada Station and head to Gofuso on a rickshaw
08:30 Dress up in an authentic furisode kimono and have your hair and make up done (2 hours)
10:30 Photoshoot around the Kishiwada Castle with a professional photographer (in part whilst on board of the rickshaw) (1.5 hours)
*3 photo spots: Kishiwada castle tower, outer moat, Gofuso garden
※3 locations at Gofuso in case of bad weather
12:00 Ride the rickshaw back to Gofuso and change back into your clothes (30 minutes)
12:30 Kaiseki cuisine lunch (1.5 hours)
14:30 Guided walking tour of the area surrounding the castle (1.5 hours)
16:00 Tour conclusion at Nankai Kishiwada Station
Move around the castle town in an authentic rickshaw
▼Start your special day in a uniquely elegant way, with a ride on an authentic rickshaw - a truly rare sight in the whole Osaka area.
The brisk pace at which the rickshaw moves as well as the oddly soothing way it sways might be some of the most appealing aspects of the ride. In summer, you can escape the heat under the sun roof and with a pleasant breeze, while in winter you can warm up under a warm blanket, making this experience an excellent choice regardless of season or weather.
▼You journey will take you through the old historical road of Kishu Kaido to Gofuso, an important cultural asset of Kishiwada with over a 100 years long history. The ride from the meeting point to Gofuso will take approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
▼The moment you get off the Kishu Kaido you will see the Kishiwada Castle. From there it is a short ride along the moat to Gofuso.
Dress in an authentic kimono at Gofuso, a historical mansion that boast more than 100 years of history
▼Your host will warmly greet you at the main entrance, offering a glimpse of the impeccable hospitality of Gofuso. Your authentic kimono experience starts in a charming setting with a majestic view of the Gofuso garden.
▼Entrust yourself into the capable hands of professionals led by a certified and acknowledged expert who will help you put on the kimono, which would not be possible without their assistance. This is your chance to experience the traditional beauty of Japanese culture.
▼Hair and makeup for the ladies will also be done by specialized staff, who will do their best to respond to any requests or wishes you may have. The memories of you wearing a kimono in such a beautiful setting will without a doubt last you a lifetime.
▼After you have dressed up, you will have your photos taken at three separate scenic spots by a professional photographer. Attending staff will be at your side throughout the experience, so you do not need to worry about anything like wardrobe malfunctions. First, you will get on the rickshaw and have your pictures taken with the majestic castle in the background (rickshaw service ends here).
▼Photo ①
▼Next you will move to the Kishiwada Castle and take pictures at the main keep.
The sight of the castle whilst dressed in real kimonos will make you feel like real nobility.
▼Photo ②
▼Lastly, you will return to Gofuso and take a picture at the best spot of the garden.
With each season the garden will add a different set of clors to your pictures.
▼Photo ③
▼After the photo session is over, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the kaiseki cuisine of Gofuso made from the freshest seasonal ingredients.
The table attendant will explain all the dishes and how to best enjoy them. The beautiful garden in the background will make the dish all the more enjoyable.
▼After Gofuso, you could stop by some of the old local sweets shops for a bit of souvenir shopping. There is no shortage of vibrant and colorful treats made from traditional Kishiwada sweets and fruits.
▼The final part of the tour will take you to Sugie noh theater, home of the oldest Noh stage in Japan where you can enjoy a lovely meal or local sweets.
The theater was built incorporating parts of the Kishiwada Castle donated in 1917 and is registered as National Tangible Cultural Property.
If you wish to dine or have a coffee or tea, please use the attached "Koufu-an" annex. The restaurant is beautifully decorated to harmonize with the Noh stage, offering a special experience.
▼Finish at Kishiwada Station
With a mere 20 minute distance from both Kansai International Airport and downtown Osaka, this tour is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to make unforgettable memories with your special someone.