tempozan osaka cruise terminal

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Ships dock at the Tempozan Pier , in the center of Osaka's ever-developing waterfront. It is adjacent to a large mall and impressive Ferris wheel.

A complete refurbishment of the port’s cruise terminal was completed in in mat 2024.

Map of Osaka

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Osaka Japan

Sightseeing:

With a population of over five million people, Osaka is Japan's second largest city. For centuries, Osaka was Japan's cultural and commercial gateway to Asia -- the point of entry not only for trade goods, but most importantly, cultural influences that shaped Japan. Today, Osaka is a vibrant cultural center known for its shopping and exquisite cuisine.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Osaka has a convenient subway system (easily navigable by non-Japanese speakers), and there's a stop at Tempozan Harbor Village. A taxi from the pier to the Sony Building in Shinsaibashi, a central area of downtown for shopping and dining, costs 3,000 yen (about $30).

Universal Studios Japan is a 10-minute ride from the port.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

Its location makes Osaka a perfect base for doing one-day trips to nearby cities like Kyoto (30 minutes), Kobe (20 minutes), Nara (40 minutes) or Himeji (1 hour). (Typical times shown on JR Trains available without extra express charges starting from Osaka Station.)

Shopping and Food

Osaka's most famous shopping district is Shinsaibashi, which offers a mix of huge department stores, high-end Western designer stores, and independent boutiques ranging from very cheap to very expensive.

The currency in Japan is the yen. It comes in denominations of ¥10,000, ¥5,000 and ¥1,000 notes, as well as ¥500, ¥100, ¥50, ¥10, ¥5 and ¥1 coins.

ATMs in Japan are becoming more useful, and most can be used to withdraw funds from overseas accounts. Post offices also offer ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted at a majority of stores and restaurants in large urban areas, but if you plan on spending any time in rural areas, be sure to carry sufficient cash. Japan is still very much a cash society and some stores, hotels and restaurants-regardless of location-refuse credit cards.

Don't tip, as it's considered rude!

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Communication:

Osaka Free Wi-Fi is available at stations and major locations. Osaka Free Wi-Fi Lite is available at individual stores.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

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Osaka Japan

The Port of Osaka is located in Osaka Bay and in the prefecture of the same name. Kobe is part of the Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe metropolitan area. There is a lot to see in this area. A 2-day stopover will be very convenient to visit the attractions of Kobe and Kyoto.

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Useful Information

Tipping is not a custom in Japan.

Japanese yen - 1.5, 10 and 100 yen coin and 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen notes.

Credit cards are generally accepted. For cash, you will have to make withdrawals at the exchange offices or at the 7-Eleven counters, as the counters of Japanese banks do not accept foreign cards.

Time difference

from New York: +14h

from San Francisco: +16h

from London: +9h

Where is located the Port d'Osaka Cruise Terminal

Travelling around the osaka cruise port.

The metro system is very efficient and the indications are also in English.

To get to Osaka Castle from Osakako Station, take the Chuo Line (green) towards Gakken-Nara-Tomigaoka and transfer to Hommachi Station on the Midosuji Line (red) towards Senri-Chuo and disembark at Umeda Station.

Activities in Osaka

Osaka castle.

The castle was built at the end of the 16th century. A museum tells the history of the castle and about the Edo period is inside.

Sumiyoshi Taisha

This shrine was built before the introduction of Buddhism in Japan. It’s purely Japanese style of architecture dates from the third century.

Osaka History Museum

The museum presents the 1400 years of history of the city.

Osaka Mint Museum

This museum presents the history of money in Japan. The building, built during the Meiji era, was built with Western influence in Victorian and Neo-Renaissance style.

Kema Sakuranomiya Park

This park runs along the banks of the Ogawa River. If you visit Osaka during cherry blossom season, this park is a must see.

Tempozan Marketplace

Several souvenir shops and restaurants can be found in this shopping center.

Family activities

Kaiyukan aquarium.

This aquarium is home to more than 562 species of marine animals.

Universal Studio

Amusement Park.

Interactive museum on the theme of Lego.

Ryoanji Temple - Kyoto

In this ancient villa transformed into a temple, you’ll find a stone garden. The fifteen stones would be arranged in such a way that at least one stone would always be hidden.

Kiyomizudera Temple - Kyoto

This temple built on a platform supported by a lattice is a symbol of Kyoto. You will have a breathtaking view of Kyoto.

Kinkakuji Temple - Kyoto

The gold leaf pavilion was built by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine - Kyoto

Dedicated to Inari, the protective good of harvest, this sanctuary would have been erected in the year 711. A path leading to Mount Inari is marked by a hedge of torii gates.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine - Nara

This Shinto shrine is dedicated to the gods of luck and is a magnificent example of the Kasuga-zukuri style of architecture. There is also the Shinen Manyo Botanical Garden, which has more than 200 species of plants.

Temple od Todaiji - Nara

This temple was built using the same techniques as the Greek Parthenon. The 1000-arm Senju Kannon wooden carved statue is considered the oldest wood sculpture in Japan.

Horyuji temple Nara

It houses the oldest wooden buildings in the world and a magnificent five-story pagoda.

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Useful References

• Tourism Board - Osaka
• Tourism Board - Japan
• Osaka on Wikipedia
• Japan on Wikipedia
• Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Osaka/d333-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

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Naha, Okinawa Japan

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Shimizu (Mount Fuji) Japan

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Yokohama (Tokyo) Japan

Other cruiseports in the area

• Keelung (Taipei)
• Naha, Okinawa
• Shimizu (Mount Fuji)
• Yokohama (Tokyo)

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Kobe-Osaka (Kyoto, Japan)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Asia

Local Time 2024-06-25 08:32

Port Kobe-Osaka cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Kobe-Osaka, Kyoto, Japan. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Kobe is the cruise port that also serves Osaka City and Kyoto City. Kobe City is located on Honshu Island's southern coast and on Osaka Bay's northern shore. Kobe City is Japan's 6th-largest by population (1,5+ million) and also Hyogo Prefecture's capital. The city is part of the Keihanshin Metropolis/aka Greater Osaka (Kyoto+Osaka) with combined population 19+ million. By population, the metropolis is ranked Japan's second-largest (after Tokyo - the world's largest, population ~37 million) and one of the world's biggest (following after NYC New York - over 20 million).

Osaka City (population over 2,6 million) is located approx 30 km (19 mi) east of Kobe. Kyoto City (population around 1,5 million) is located in the island's central part and to the northeast of Kobe (travel distance approx 80 km / 50 mi, or around 1,5 hours). Osaka-shi is located at Yodo River's mouth (Osaka Bay). This is a merchant port city famous for its food and sake (made with fresh water from the mountains). Osaka's food popularity is due to high-quality ingredients and the huge number of merchants serving the market.

Great Hanshin earthquake (aka Kobe earthquake) started on January 16, 1995. It had 6,9 Richter magnitude and lasted for approx 20 seconds. Its focus was on the northern end of Awaji Island, approx 20 km (12 mi) away from downtown Kobe. The disaster resulted in 6434 deaths (~4600 from Kobe City) and severe buildings and infrastructure damages. Nearly 400,000 buildings were destroyed, as well as numerous road and rail bridges. The triggered by the earthquake 300+ fires raged over the city. In the seaport were destroyed 120 of its 150 quays.

Land tours from Kobe-Osaka also visit Asuka and Nara. High-speed trains also link to Himeji .

Port of Osaka (locode JPOSA) is Japan's principal seaport, located within Osaka Bay. According to statistical data for 2016, The Port has 111x coastal berths (of which 70 for ocean ships) and total harbor area 4684 hectares (11575 acres / 46,8 km2 / 18,3 mi2), of which 1860 hectares (~4600 acres) are land. Port's total shipping trade volume (FY2016) was 91,2 million tons, including 34,11M foreign and 48,09M domestic (of which 31,29M via ferries ).

Port Kobe (locode JPUKB) is a large seaport serving the Osaka metropolis. As flatlands here are limited, nearby were constructed several artificial islands, including Port Island, Rokko Island, Kobe Airport Island. The port was opened for foreign trade in 1858 and officially inaugurated in 1868 (named then "Hyogo Port"). The port has 34 containership berths, 2 cruise terminals, total area approx 4 km2 (1,5 mi2) and max draft (water depth) 18 m / 59 ft. Before the 1995 earthquake, Port Kobe was ranked the world's 6th-largest containership port (by annual throughput).

Port Kobe is managed by Kobe City Government. Kobe Port Terminal Corporation is responsible for all terminals (container, cruise and ferry ).

Rokko Island Ferry Terminals have 3 berths (RF1, RF2, RF3), quay length 193 m (RF1) and 266 m (RF2) and area 17,390 m2 (RF1) and 24,920 m2 (RF2). These terminals are operated by Hankyu Ferry Company serving the Kobe-Shinmoji route. RF3 terminal (operated by Shikoku Kaihastu Ferry) has quay length 238 m and area 22,690 m2.

Rokko Island Container Terminals have 4 berths, total area 612,500 m2 and max draft 14 m (46 ft). Three berths have quay length 350 m, the 4th is 530 m. Berths' operators are Nitto Total Logistics, Mitsubishi Logistics Corporation, UNI-X Corporation, Nippon Container Terminals Co Ltd.

Port Island Container Terminals have 6 berths and total area 786,880 m2.

Port Island's Passenger Terminals have max draft 10 m (33 ft) and quay length 200 m. The combined area is sized 241,345 m2, plus transit covered area 68,926 m2.

Port Kobe's two cruise terminals are named "Naka Pier Cruise Terminal" and "Kobe Port Terminal". Naka Pier handles medium-sized vessels and has berth length 286 m, max draft 9 m (30 ft) and average tidal range 1 m. Kobe Port Terminal has 6 berths, with total quay length 1238 m (649 plus 589).

Currently, Kobe is ranked Japan's 4th largest cargo port, connecting to over 500 seaports in 130 countries. The seaport's landscape is marked by Rokko Mountains (at its rear), which also protect it from the seasonal strong winds.

• Most popular waterfront tourist attractions are Harborland (1992-opened shopping district) and Meriken Park - an amusement park with Kobe Port Tower (opened in 1963) and Kobe Maritime Museum (themed on Japan's shipping and Kobe Harbour's history).
• Port Island's construction started in 1966 and was completed in 1981.
• Kobe Ohashi Bridge (cable-stayed, main span 485 m / 1591 ft) was opened in 1992. It connects the artificial islands in Kobe-Osaka Bay.
• Meriken Park's construction started in 1983 and was completed in 1987.
• Harbour Highway was officially inaugurated in 1993.

As cruise ports, Osaka and Kobe are interlinked, Kobe being the main (largest) seaport, and Osaka - an alternative port. Port Osaka is visited by smaller-sized cruise vessels only. Often, passengers are transferred via buses between Kobe and Osaka, with passenger embarkation / disembarkation at Kobe port. Port Kobe is located close to an airport and a railway station serving high-speed trains.

In 2016, Port Osaka expanded its cruise berthing capacity by adding new bollards and fenders, so now it can handle the world's largest passenger ships .

On March 13, 2017, Queen Elizabeth ( Cunard ) departed on its ever first itinerary leaving roundtrip from Kobe. The 7-day itinerary (March 13-20) came after the local municipal government asked Cunard to schedule a Kobe-based cruise as in 2017 the port celebrated its 150th anniversary. The itinerary included the Japanese ports Kagoshima , Busan , Hiroshima and Kochi . This "surprise cruise" became part of Queen Elizabeth's 2017 " World Cruise " roundtrip from Southampton (England UK) .

On December 16, 2017, the port commemorated its 150-year anniversary with a charity concert at the Harborland, with Christmas songs performed live by a 40 trumpet ensemble.

In 2017, Port Kobe handled 118 cruise ship calls, which number jumped in 2018 to 140. The increase was attributed to three domestic cruise lines (Japan Cruise Line, Mitsui OSK, and NYK Cruises) including Kobe as call port consistently.

The next aerial photo shows Port Osaka and all its terminals/docks serving RoRo ships (ferries, car carriers) and cargo vessels.

Regularly scheduled cruiseferries link Osaka with Beppu (Oita Prefecture on Kyushu Island, MOL Ferries, crossing time 12 hours) and with Busan Korea (Panstar Cruise Line, 3x weekly crossings, travel time 19 hours).

On the Osaka-Beppu route are deployed two newbuilds /2023-inaugurated MOL Ferries -  Sunflower Murasaki and Sunflower Kurenai .

Osaka City (Osaka-shi) is part of Honshu Island's Kansai region, the capital of the Osaka Prefecture and japan's third-largest city by population (around 2,7 million) - following only Tokyo (~14 million) and Yokohama (~3,7 million). Osaka and Koyoto form the Keihanshin Metro - Japan's second-largest (after Kanto Metro) as well as the world's 10th largest (total population over 19 million).

Osaka developed as Japan's economic center (both trade and industry), an important seaport, and was the country's capital city in the 7th-8th centuries. In the late-19th-century (following the Meiji Revolution in 1868) the city started rapidly to expand (in size and population) and industrialize. After WW2 (1939-45) Osaka started to develop as one of Keihanshin's financial centers. As a financial center, Osaka is currently ranked the world's 15th-largest and Asia's 5th-largest (after Singapore , Hong Kong , Tokyo, Shanghai ). OSE-Osaka Securities Exchange is Japan's second-largest (after TSE-Tokyo Stock Exchange).

Here are headquartered numerous major domestic and multinational corporations, including Panasonic, Sharp, Sanyo. The city is famous for its large prestigious universities, annual festivals and posts events, museums, art galleries, premium shopping malls and leisure facilities, nature parks, gardens, historical sites and landmarks like Osaka Castle, Kaiyukan Aquarium, Dotonbori Canal, Tsutenkaku Tower, Tennoji Park (botanical garden and zoo), Abeno Harukas skyscraper (Abenobashi Terminal Building), Sumiyoshi-taisha/Grand Shrine, Shitenno-ji (Budist temple aka Arahaka-ji / Nanba-ji / Mitsu-ji), Naniwanomiya Palace.

The city is divided into two areas - Kita (downtown) and Minami (uptown). In between are the CBDs Semba (business districts) connected via a large boulevard. In the bay area (city's western part) are located the seaport and popular tourist destination like Kyocera Dome (1997-built baseball stadium, capacity ~37,000 seats/max 55,000), Universal Studios Japan (theme park operated by USJ LLC/NBCUniversal), Mount Tenpo (Tempozan Harbour Village).

Greater Osaka has an extensive railway network with the largest train stations being Umeda (Kita-ku), Namba (Chuo-ku), Shinsaibashi (Chuo-ku), Tennoji (Tennoji-ku, Abeno-ku), Kyobashi (Joto-ku, Miyakojima-ku) and Yodoyabashi (nearest to the City Hall, part of Midosuji Line and Keihan Main Line). Osaka City proper is mainly served by JR West as well as numerous other private railway companies (Keihan, Hankyu, Hanshin, Kintetsu, Nankai). The city's Metro system (by annual train passenger traffic/~915 million) is currently ranked the world's 8th-largest (Keihanshin's is ~4 billion).

Shinkansen (high-speed/bullet trains) directly link Osaka with Kobe, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, Tokyo. The city is served by two large airports - Kansai Airport (primarily serving flights) and Osaka Airport (serving mainly domestic flights, plus international cargo aircraft). Ferries link Osaka-shi with numerous domestic ports ( Kitakyushu /Fukuoka Prefecture, Kagoshima and Miyazaki /Kyushu Island, Naha /Okinawa Prefecture's Ryukyu Islands) as well as with ports in China ( Shanghai , Tianjin-Beijing ) and Korea (Busan).

Kobe-Osaka cruise terminal

The first Kobe cruise terminal was renovated in January 2006. It has CIQ Facilities, Immigration and Customs, adjacent shopping and entertainment complex. Naka Pier Cruise Terminal serves medium-sized ships. The boarding bridge can also serve disabled passengers.

Port Kobe cruise terminals

The second Kobe cruise terminal has some of the largest facilities in Western Japan. Shinko Pier 4 has all 6 berths (on both its sides and serves differently sized vessels. The passenger terminal is approx 5 min away from downtown. Kobe Domestic Airport and Kansai International Airport are easily accessible from the terminal. Next photo shows Kobe's Shinko Pier 4 Terminal (berths Q1,Q2, R, O1, O2, P).

Kobe Port Authority plans to install a luggage elevator in the building, also to renew its escalators, add more check-in booths and to expand the bus parking.

The lesser-used cruise pier is at Kobe's Oriental Hotel (Meriken Park).

• Kobe Meriken Park and Harborland: close to Kobe cruise port is the beautiful Meriken Park. The Harborland is a district for entertainment. Find amusement parks, shopping malls, theaters, restaurants, etc. it is accessible via Hanshin Motomachi or JR.
• Kitano Town: located in Kitano-cho Chuo-ku. Popular visitors’ spot with ijinkan (foreigners’ residences).
• Mt. Rokko, Rokko-san: take a breathtaking view of Kobe from the mountain top. Located in Rokkosan-cho Nada-ku.
• Nankin-machi (Chinatown): located in Sakae-machi-dori Chuo-ku is one of the biggest Chinatowns. The other big ones are Yokohama Chinatown and Nagasaki Chinatown.
• Kobe Luminarie: this is an annual event, usually in December. The illumination commemorates the Great Hanshin Earthquake from January 1995.
• Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum: Nada, Kobe’s westernmost region, is very famous with its Sake. This is a special type of wine made of rice. There are a lot of sake breweries where you can taste the typical drink.
• Nunobiki Falls: the most impressive Japanese waterfalls. They are located within 20 minutes walking distance from the Chuo-ku train station.
• Ikuta Jinja: historic religious site. According to a legend, it dates from the 3rd century.
• Himeji: World Cultural Heritage Site and National Treasure in Japan. “White Heron Castle” is also a popular name of the Himeji Castle.

Kobe-Osaka tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Osaka Port （area:KINKI／OSAKA)

Port area tourist information, port information.

Known in ancient times as "Naniwazu," the Osaka Port served as an embarkation point for ships travelling to and from the Korean Peninsula and China. Since its opening to foreign trade in 1868, Osaka based industry and trade began to thrive and the number of vessels utilizing the Osaka Port increased dramatically thanks to the construction of a new ports. The Osaka Port, as one of the nation's leading ports, entered an age of prosperity, becoming one of Asia's major trade ports. The port continues to prosper as a thriving international trading port through its commitment to overhauling facilities, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and providing improved port services.

Konamon (Takoyaki Okonomiyaki)

There are various types of konamon dishes (flour-based dishes) in Osaka.“Takoyaki”is octopus balls made of a wheatflour based...

View Dining Information in PDF

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street & Dotombori

“Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street” is very popular shopping area. You will find approximately 180 shops, including ...

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Osaka-Castle

This huge castle was built as a symbol of the authority of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It was burned down during the summer...

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Yamamoto Noh Theater

You may have lunch inside the theater in front of the stage. You can also enjoy experiencing Japanese authentic culuture...

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Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Industrial Port Policy Division , Ports and Harbours Bureau International Tourism Division, Japan Tourism Agency

Copyright © 2014 Japan Tourism Agency. All Rights Reserved.

Port of Osaka Celebrates the Opening of New Terminal

• May 10, 2024

The Port of Osaka’s new passenger terminal at Tempozan Wharf officially opened on May 1.

The opening ceremony was held on May 5, when Celebrity Cruises’ Millennium arrived at the port. 

The new Tempozan Passenger Terminal measures approximately 5,780㎡, which is twice as large compared to the old terminal, and will have the capacity to accommodate larger ships.

The ship called at Osaka while sailing its 13-night Best of Japan voyage which departed from Yokohama on May 2. The Celebrity Millenium will also call in Hakodate, Aomori and Shimizu before returning to Yokohama on May 15.

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Port of Osaka

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Top Things to Do Around the Port of Osaka as a Tourist

1. take santa maria cruise ship to appreciate osaka bay view, 2. observe varied sea creatures in osaka aquarium kaiyukan, 3. overlook the osaka port and city on tempozan giant ferris wheel, 4. taste delicious osaka food and enjoy shopping in tempozan market street, how to get to port of osaka, nearby attractions to visit.

After exploring the Port of Osaka, you can take the Cap Line boat to visit the nearby Universal Studios Japa n. You can take the boat at the Kaiyukan West Pier, and a single way takes about 10 minutes. 

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Cruises to Kyoto (Osaka), Japan

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Kyoto (Osaka) Port Guide

On a Kyoto cruise, discover the fascinating cultural capital of Japan, where countless temples, traditional geishas, Zen gardens, and majestic castles await.

Explore Kyoto’s ancient architecture, including the stunning Golden Pavilion and the mystical red torii gates of the Fushimi Inari shrine. Savor the city’s culinary scene, from hole-in-the-wall ramen joints to Michelin-starred restaurants. If you cruise to Japan in the spring, you’ll have the chance to experience the magic of the cherry blossom season, a time of extraordinary beauty in Kyoto.

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Top sights and attractions for kyoto cruises, fushimi inari taisha.

Walk through the famous red torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Taisha, a Shinto shrine complex that was dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, in the 8th century. Located in southern Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha has over five thousand torii gates which lead visitors down winding trails around Mount Inari’s forest and the shrines scattered throughout the area. On this gentle hike, you’ll also see a number of fox statues, as the fox is considered to be one of Inari’s messengers.

Kinkakuji Temple

Admire the sparkling Kinkakuji or Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple covered in gold leaf that is surrounded by a serene lake. This iconic Japanese building dates back to 1397 and was originally a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, Yoshimitsu’s will stipulated that Kinkakuji become a Zen temple. Since then, Kinkakuji has been burnt down and rebuilt a number of times, most recently in 1955 after a monk torched it to the ground in 1950.

Kiyomizudera Temple

Enjoy the view from Kiyomizudera or Pure Water Temple, a Buddhist temple named after the pristine Otowa Waterfall nearby. Built in 778, the temple is famous for its wooden structure overlooking the city of Kyoto, and for the fact that not a single nail was used in its construction. During your visit, drink a sip from the sacred water of the Otowa Waterfall, which is said to promote good health and longevity. In the main hall, visit the Jishu Shrine that is dedicated to the gods of love and relationships, which supposedly helps worshippers find love.

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Top things to do in kyoto, watch a geisha show.

Visit Gion, Kyoto’s geisha and entertainment district, where you’ll stroll by wooden merchant houses, tea houses, and intimate alleys illuminated by lanterns. Enjoy a traditional shabu-shabu meal at one of the many restaurants lining the streets, or catch a maiko or geiko performance at the local theater, where geishas entertain viewers with traditional song and dance.

Admire the Cherry Blossoms at Osaka Castle

Marvel at the Osaka Castle, an impressive building that was once the largest castle in all of Japan. Built by General Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583, the structure has weathered two massive destructions: once from enemy troops in 1614, and another in 1665, when a lightning bolt struck the tower and burnt it down. Today, it houses an extensive collection of art and weapons. The castle’s sprawling garden features over 600 cherry blossom trees and is one of the most popular places in the city during the hanami or viewing season.

Find Serenity at the Ryoanji Temple

Experience the wonder of the Ryoanji Temple’s rock garden, the main attraction at this Zen Buddhist temple, which dates back to 1450. Gaze at the minimalist rock garden made up of 15 large stones surrounded by a white plot of pebbles and moss. Visitors head to Ryoanji every day to find stillness and reflect on the garden’s Zen meaning on their own.

Top Food and Drink in Kyoto

When you visit Kyoto on an Osaka cruise, you’ll be able to sample the city’s expansive food scene, where you’ll find all of your favorite Japanese staples (sushi, soba, and ramen) along with local specialties. Make a reservation for an elaborate multi-course kaiseki meal, or stop by a casual yakitori stand and enjoy smoky barbecue bites. Try tofu in a variety of ways, from boiled to frozen in ice cream. Sip on a hot cup of matcha tea in the morning and down some sake after dinner. For a real taste of the city’s local flavors and ingredients, stop by the Nishiki Market, which has been open for more than 400 years.

Culture and History of Kyoto

For over 1,000 years (from 794 to 1868), Kyoto served as the capital of Japan and the home of the Japanese imperial family, until the Meiji Restoration moved the imperial court to Tokyo. Most of the city was destroyed during the 15th century’s Onin War. A massive reconstruction took place during the Edo period, when the city thrived and rose to prominence as an important economic and cultural center. During World War II, the city was briefly considered as a target for the American atomic bomb, but was thankfully spared at the insistence of Secretary of War Henry L. Stimson, who had honeymooned in the city and understood its cultural importance. Today, Kyoto is recognized as the capital of Japanese arts and culture, as well as the center of the Buddhist religion.

Osaka Cruise Port Facilities and Location

On a Kyoto cruise, you’ll dock in the nearby city of Osaka at the Tempozan Passenger Terminal. Nearby, you will find the Osaka Aquarium, the Tempozan Marketplace Mall, and the Universal Studios Japan theme park. To travel to Kyoto, board a high-speed Shinkansen train that reaches the city in less than 20 minutes.

Transportation in Osaka

At the Osaka cruise terminal, you’ll find the Osakako subway station just a few blocks away. The easy-to-navigate subway system takes you around Osaka and also connects you to the train station, where you can travel to nearby cities such as Kyoto and Nara. You can also explore Kyoto on a shore excursion, which includes transportation. Within Kyoto, there are several options for public transportation including subways, buses, and taxis. Kyoto is a mostly flat and compact city, so it’s easy to walk or explore on a bike.

Shopping Near Osaka Cruise Port

Take a short taxi ride from the Tempozan Passenger Terminal in Osaka to Shinsaibashi, a popular indoor arcade, where you’ll find hundreds of shops ranging from large department stores to smaller boutiques. The main shopping areas in Kyoto are clustered near the Kyoto Station and downtown Kyoto. Some of the best souvenirs include locally made Japanese wash, incense, green tea, yukata robes, and ceramics.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The local currency in Japan is the yen. Credit cards are accepted in major stores and restaurants, but you should carry some cash to pay for taxis and other smaller purchases.  Tipping is not customary in Japan, and in some instances can even be considered rude, so don’t worry about leaving a tip even after an excellent meal or service.

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Osaka Cruise Port

Welcome to Osaka

Osaka, Japan

With a population of over 19 million, Osaka is Japan’s second most populous city, and one of the most populated metropolitan areas of the world. This port city has served historically as a merchant city. Signs of human habitation in the area go back to 5 or 6 centuries B.C. It is located on Osaka Bay and has a humid subtropical climate with spring the wettest and August the hottest.

view of a canal in Osaka from the Westerdam

Osaka has many canals and bridges. Its food is renowned worldwide and their sake is sought-after as well. Osaka Castle is the main historical landmark. The castle and its park are accessible from the port by subway. Other attractions in Osaka include parks, museums, temples, shrines, theaters, shopping, and skyscrapers including the tallest building in Japan with an observation deck.

Tempozan Plaza and Osaka Aquarium

The Tempozan Passenger Terminal in Osaka is conveniently located next to the Osaka Aquarium, Tempozan Marketplace and Giant Ferris wheel, Legoland, and a subway station. Not all places take credit cards so carry cash, but not for tips. Tipping is not generally practiced in Japan and may even be seen as rude.

instructions on how to use a sit-toilet for tourists accustomed to squat toilets

Free Wi-fi is available inside the building at the cruise terminal, and also maps and information. To leave the cruse ship dock walk past the building and turn right to get to the street. The train station is just a few blocks walk straight out the road from the terminal, around a third of a mile. Shops all along the way offer food, free wifi, and trinkets.

Malls in Japan sometimes have very fancy toilets with heated seats and bidet options. The restrooms we saw were very clean and either had western style sit toilets or some stalls with sit toilets and some with squat toilets. Places that just had sit toilets also tended to have instructions on how to use them because sit toilets are just as foreign to some Asian tourists as squat toilets are to western travelers. We didn’t come to places where squat toilets were the only option until we got to China.

lego giraffe on the plaza

There’s lots to do without even leaving the dock area with the aquarium, ferris wheel, and Legoland located right at the pier. You can buy tickets for all of those as well as tickets for a harbor cruise by the wheel. The marketplace is a small mall full of little shops sitting between the ferris wheel and aquarium. These are directly across the tour bus parking area from the ship on a plaza with outside space to walk from one attraction to another.

park at the end of the pier

There’s a park near the end of the pier with a playground, trails, and a ferry dock.

you can see Universal Studios theme park through the bridge

You can see Universal Studios amusement park across the canal from the ship. On the far side of the Aquarium there’s a dock with a shuttle boat called Captain Line that goes to Universal City Port. You can also get to Universal by subway.

Osaka near the dock

Cruise ship shore excursion tours offered from Holland America Westerdam in Osaka when we visited there mostly went to various temples or castles.

Tempozan Cruise Pier in Osaka, Japan

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Osaka, Japan

The city possesses a plethora of museums, with focuses ranging from ethnography to art to natural history. Osaka Castle is regarded by locals and visitors alike as a historical and cultural symbol of the city that is not to be missed. Unforgettable are the various types of bridges that span Osaka's waterways and the many sloping roads throughout the metropolis. Sky-scraping landmarks like the Tsutenkaku Tower, the WTC Cosmotower and the Floating Garden Observatory are interesting sights from ground level, but they offer spectacular views from their top stories. Adventurous types may want to brave the Tempozan, the world's largest Ferris wheel.

Driving from downtown: Drive Sennichi mae Dori street to West.. Across Taisho Bridge. Pass Osaka Dome (on your right), turn left at the Sakaigawa intersection. Straight forward on Minato dori and then turn right at the Chikko Higashi intersection. After turn right just straight to the Tempozan Terminal.

Osaka’s Harbor Village

Tempozan is a port district on Osaka Bay, located in Minato ward in the south-west of the city. This entertainment destination is home to a few of Osaka’s major attractions such as the Kaiyukan Aquarium and a Giant Ferris Wheel, complemented by boat cruises and a shopping center for a relaxing day by the sea.

Tempozan is an artificial land build in Osaka bay. Its name derives from Mount Tenpo located at its north-eastern end and that is today the smallest " mountain " of Japan , with a summit culminating at 4,53 meters above sea level. The hill was built in the 19th century during the Tenpo Era (1830 - 1844) with sand and soil and was at the times used as a landmark to guide boats entering in Osaka port.

Visitors are attracted by the cherry trees cheerfully blooming in spring and growing along with pine trees to cover Tempozan’s slopes. Tempozan Park was officially created in 1958, and beside the sakura   🌸 blossoms season its alleys are not well-maintained so we do not necessarily recommend going. Except, maybe, for the historical tiled wall reproducing the landscape of the Edo period and for the view on the bridge of the Hanshin Expressway n°5.

Other more interesting attractions are available at Tempozan. They are gathered in a resort area , called Tempozan Harbor Village .

Kaiyukan Aquarium

Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world and offers a fascinating visit for adults as well as for children . With its vertically shaped architecture, it makes visitors gradually go deeper in the sea, until the discovery of the aquarium’s mascot : the impressive whale-shark .

Near the aquarium, the funnel-like Osaka Culturarium, a former Suntory museum , is home to various exhibitions related to the port district, fine arts and botanic all year around.

Cruising on Osaka Bay

Cruises on Osaka bay depart from the Santa Maria Pier behind Kaiyukan Aquarium. This Japanese replica of Columbus’ ship is twice as big as the original Santa Maria that set sail to discover America. The cruise lasts about one hour and is quite popular at sunset .

You can also walk along the seaside to reach the statue of the mameido (Japanese transliteration for "mermaid"). From there, you will have an unobstructed view on the sea, the boats and the industrial activities of the bay.

Panoramic view from the Ferris wheel

Tempozan’s Giant Ferris Wheel is the second most popular attraction of the area. We recommend purchasing the combined ticket including the aquarium to avoid queuing at the booth. The 112,5 meters high and 100 meters diameter wheel overlooks the landscape and offers its passengers a panoramic and comprehensive view on Osaka Bay . On a clear weather day, it is possible to see up to the Kansai Airport (KIX) and Akashi Kaikyo bridge that connects Honshu to Awaji Island, at the western entrance of the bay.

The ride on the wheel lasts about fifteen minutes and one can choose between 2 types of closed gondolas: the classical or the ones with transparent floor. If there is not too many people waiting, we recommend boarding a see-through cabin , transparent from floor to ceiling, for a stunning effect. Additionally, three cabins are available for visitors with reduced mobility.

Being a romantic outing per excellence, the Ferris wheel is more frequented at nighfall . The evening ride is indeed very liked by couples who wonder on the illuminated landscape in the gondola’s privacy. Those who prefer staying on the ground can also admire the bright colors of the wheel.

Tempozan Marketplace shopping mall

Tempozan Marketplace shopping mall extends between the Ferris wheel and the aquarium. It is mainly home to restaurants and cafés that stay open until the evening. There are also a few fashion and souvenir shops, as well as the miniature Legoland Osaka theme-park, mainly intended for children fans of the little bricks.

Before 11 a.m., we recommend visiting the "gourmets street", or Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho in Japanese, which is a reconstitution of a 1960s' typical neighborhood . The old times’ ambiance is recreated through daily life staging, replicas of various brand signs or old-fashioned posters pasted here and there. When lunch time is nearing, restaurants of this imitation district open and quickly become busy. Serving Osaka's cuisine, some of the shops are renowned among the locals and you will probably have to wait a little bit to eat. At the first floor of the Tempozan Marketplace, the Food Court offers free seating to enjoy the take away lunch you just ordered.

Tempozan gives an insight of Osaka by the sea . While the area is not a must-see for first time Osaka visitors, it is nonetheless an interesting destination for family or couple leisure . The night illuminations embellish a landscape that is otherwise very urbanized and industrialized on the daytime.

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Tempozan Ferry Terminal

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Tempozan Guide Osaka Bay Area

• Published on : 16/01/2013
• by : Japan Experience
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Tempozan: read a guide to the water side district of Tempozan in Osaka home to the Osaka Aquarium and the Tempozan Ferris Wheel.

Osaka Area Guide: Tempozan 天保山

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The feature that gives Osaka's Tempozan area its name is something of a mountain made out of a mole hill. The end of the Edo Period, in the mid-nineteenth century, was a time of financial crisis for Japan.

Economic reform policies had been repeatedly tried with little improvement. The last of these was named the Tempo Reform. Instituted in 1841, it was the beginning of a four year period of drastic change in Japanese economic and social institutions.

Because of its dramatic nature and because it was the last attempt at recovery before Japan was opened to foreign trade, the time is known as the Tempo Era.

The Tempo Reform was also a failure, but life goes on, and an important channel of Osaka's lifeblood is transportation of goods along the river, Yodogawa. To facilitate that continuing business activity, a section of the river near its mouth was dredged during the Tempo Era and the soil mounded up on the bank. The mounded earth served as a landmark for ships beginning their journey upriver, and was given the name, Tempozan, proclaiming it as Japan's lowest mountain.

The mountain still exists today, in a small park beside a harbor. Its loyal fans have resisted repeated government decisions to raze it. The 4.53 meter summit is crowned with an obelisk that is arguably taller than the mound itself and marked on a map at the entrance to the park.

Since the Tempo Era, the park, let alone the mountain, has been dwarfed by so many modern attractions that you can easily spend a day or two in what is now called Tempozan Village that would be both entertaining and educational. There are a number of hotels with easy access, and plenty of opportunities to pick up distinctive souvenirs.

Tempozan Ferris Wheel

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel is 112.5 meters high. No longer the world's largest, it still offers a view of the entire Osaka Bay area. The lights on its arms that shine at night predict tomorrow's weather. If the lights are orange it means the sun will shine, green means clouds, and blue is for rain.

What makes the biggest splash in Tempozan is another world class sized attraction. Across the plaza that is often dotted with street performers is the Osaka Aquarium or Kaiyukan . While it has lost the distinction of being the largest in the world, it is still an impressive and popular venue that provides spacious viewing areas for panoramic, submarine vistas populated by a host of fascinating residents.

The wait outside can sometimes be long, especially on weekends or national holidays , but it is certainly worth it. The size of the tanks allows the aquarium to keep even the larger species of shark and manta rays in a healthy environment. In some areas the viewers are literally surrounded by the waters these leviathans cruise through. There is also a private suite with a view of the main tank and kitchen facilities that is available for hourly rental.

Tempozan offers experiences of the ocean, not only from far above and deep within, but along its surface as well. The most touted is in the tall ship named Santa Maria. Its construction is loosely based on the ship of the same name that was one of Columbus' fleet, which he steered to the New World.

From the outside it looks much like the original. Inside it much more inviting and oriented towards tourism. The passenger areas comprise three decks. The lower has a collection of documents and information about Columbus and the times in which he lived. The middle deck contains a restaurant area, and the upper is an observation lounge with very comfortable seating. The ship cruises Osaka Bay for 50 minutes during the daytime and 105 minutes at night when reservations are needed.

Tempozan can also be a jumping off point for Universal Studios Japan because there is a ferry (Capt.Line) that runs between the two.

Between the aquarium and the Ferris Wheel is the Tempozan Marketplace. With over 90 shops it is something of a hotchpotch of souvenirs, practical items, clothing boutiques, and restaurants. It is one of the places in Osaka where you can sample many of the foods that are part of the city's reputation, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and various takes on ramen, accompanied by beers from local microbreweries, all under one roof.

Beyond the aquarium a building of unusual character punctuates the skyline. Designed by the world renowned, Japanese architect, Tadao Ando, it is unlike many of his other creations that burrow mostly underground and have little impact on the surrounding landscape.

Its prominent feature is a wide, inverted cone like an exclamation mark against the sky. Here you can find collections of another kind. The building began its life in 1994 as the Suntory Museum. It was closed in 2010, but has reopened as the Osaka Tempozan Special Art Gallery and continues as a venue for displays of large and striking collections from around the world.

If you are inclined to take home artwork from the area, be sure to visit the Tempozan Art Gallery in the Marketplace. The works of local artists are on display here and nearly everything is for sale. Owing to the venue, the sea is a common motif among the various media on offer.

When you think you have had enough, you can stroll down behind the Special Art Gallery to the southern end of the harbor. You will find, out in the water, a diminutive statue of The Little Mermaid from the story by Hans Christian Anderson, a gift to Tempozan Village from the Karlsburg Company of Denmark. You can sit with her and consider whether you're ready to leave the village behind while she contemplates the loss of her prince.

Tenpozan Hotels

The Hotel Seagull Tempozan is located in the center of the area. Other hotels are congregated around Universal Studios Japan and near Cosmo Square, the next station along from Osaka-ko.

Access - how to get to Tempozan

Tempozan is south west of Umeda and almost due west of Namba . Osaka-ko Station on the Chuo Line of the Osaka subway is the best station to access Tempozan. By bus take Osaka City Bus #88 from Osaka Station or #60 from Namba Station.

Text + images by Alan Wiren

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By pukekolive , May 16, 2023 in Asia

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We are booked on 12 Day Best of Southern Japan 24 October 2023 cruise on Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity have us porting at Osaka (Kyoto) overnight but all cruise schedules have us at Kobe (Osaka). I have not been able to find ANY cruise ship schedule on line for Osaka for the last several weeks.

The cruise before us has a 2 night port stay but Celebrity has them arriving at Kobe for 1 night and leaving from Osaka after another night as if Millennium changes port so passengers on thus cruise are also confused.

I have found a reference to the Tempozan Pier and Village at Osaka currently undergoing renovations in preparation for the 2025 Expo which may be the issue. A search on Google related to this comes up blank (it may be that Japan don't like to publicise this sort of thing).

Is anyone able to confirm that Osaka (Tempozan Pier) is currently temporarily closed to cruise ships thanks?

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ARandomTraveler

Our original itinerary had us stopping in Osaka and they changed it to Kobe months ago. They didn't say why. The cruise is in August 2023.

monkey@cruise

On 5/16/2023 at 10:35 PM, ARandomTraveler said: Our original itinerary had us stopping in Osaka and they changed it to Kobe months ago. They didn't say why. The cruise is in August 2023.

https://kansai-sanpo.com/tenpozan-marine-terminal2022jul/

Tempozan cruise terminal will re-open in April 2024.

On 5/16/2023 at 6:24 PM, pukekolive said: Is anyone able to confirm that Osaka (Tempozan Pier) is currently temporarily closed to cruise ships thanks?

• 2 months later...

Coquitlam Gal

I’m also wondering if Tempozan port (Osaka) is closed.

Celebrity Millenium’s itinerary still shows it will be docking in Osaka on Oct. 3. 

micruiser2002

7 minutes ago, Coquitlam Gal said: I’m also wondering if Tempozan port (Osaka) is closed. Celebrity Millenium’s itinerary still shows it will be docking in Osaka on Oct. 3. 

I believe according to that ports website it is open and Millie is going to be docking there. If you look at this website it shows Millie on Oct 3 docking in Osaka.  https://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/port/page/0000442982.html

floralscent

9 hours ago, Coquitlam Gal said: I’m also wondering if Tempozan port (Osaka) is closed. Celebrity Millenium’s itinerary still shows it will be docking in Osaka on Oct. 3. 

I have been communicating with a guide in Osaka and he said he is currently meeting passengers at Tempozan Port in Osaka. There is construction going on for sure but large cruise ships are still using the facility.

hubofhockey

On 5/21/2023 at 2:40 PM, monkey@cruise said:   https://kansai-sanpo.com/tenpozan-marine-terminal2022jul/   Tempozan cruise terminal will re-open in April 2024.    

Our May 2024 cruise does an overnight in Osaka.  The only change Celebrity made was shortening our port time on day 2 from 5 pm departure to 3 pm departure.  We're doing Kyoto pre-cruise, but for people hoping to spend a couple of days there, that change is probably awful.  Kobe is a 25 minute train ride to Osaka for those impacted.  That's a bit inconvenient.

19 minutes ago, hubofhockey said:   Our May 2024 cruise does an overnight in Osaka.  The only change Celebrity made was shortening our port time on day 2 from 5 pm departure to 3 pm departure.  We're doing Kyoto pre-cruise, but for people hoping to spend a couple of days there, that change is probably awful.  Kobe is a 25 minute train ride to Osaka for those impacted.  That's a bit inconvenient.

The cruise terminal is being rebuilt for Expo 2025, but pier is operational, will be gangway bridge access until the terminal is complete. Here is the link for Osaka Port authority FB photos on Tempozan terminal. Enjoy the welcome and farewell shows from the local.

https://www.facebook.com/osakaportcruise?ref=embed_page   

Osaka is Japan's third largest city, 25 min train ride from Kobe, only reaches Umeda (northern Osaka)

Umeda is a major transport hub (JR lines, Osaka Metro and Hankyu lines), is a maze walk through these interlinked underground stations.

3 hours ago, monkey@cruise said: The cruise terminal is being rebuilt for Expo 2025, but pier is operational, will be gangway bridge access until the terminal is complete. Here is the link for Osaka Port authority FB photos on Tempozan terminal. Enjoy the welcome and farewell shows from the local. https://www.facebook.com/osakaportcruise?ref=embed_page      Osaka is Japan's third largest city, 25 min train ride from Kobe, only reaches Umeda (northern Osaka) Umeda is a major transport hub (JR lines, Osaka Metro and Hankyu lines), is a maze walk through these interlinked underground stations.

Thanks, looking forward to our overnight in Osaka (doing Tokyo and Kyoto before the cruise).  

20 hours ago, hubofhockey said: Thanks, looking forward to our overnight in Osaka (doing Tokyo and Kyoto before the cruise).  

I will fly in Osaka for pre-cruise stay in Kyoto. Last night, booked Shinkansen tickets to Shin-Yokohama used Hayatoko 21 discount. Then Yokohama Line (train) or Blue Line (metro line) to Yokohama cruise terminal. On some Shinkansen lines, unreserved compartments for large suitcases are a thing of the past. From now on, you'll need to reserve a special seat for your oversized bags.  

2 hours ago, monkey@cruise said: I will fly in Osaka for pre-cruise stay in Kyoto. Last night, booked Shinkansen tickets to Shin-Yokohama used Hayatoko 21 discount. Then Yokohama Line (train) or Blue Line (metro line) to Yokohama cruise terminal. On some Shinkansen lines, unreserved compartments for large suitcases are a thing of the past. From now on, you'll need to reserve a special seat for your oversized bags.  

I am thinking of booking Green class.  Hoping no problems on large suitcases in that class, but I hadn’t heard of this change.  

3 minutes ago, hubofhockey said:   I am thinking of booking Green class.  Hoping no problems on large suitcases in that class, but I hadn’t heard of this change.    

https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/

Starting May, 2022. the rules apply to Green and Ordinary cars between Osaka and Tokyo route. 

36 minutes ago, monkey@cruise said: https://global.jr-central.co.jp/en/info/oversized-baggage/ Starting May, 2022. the rules apply to Green and Ordinary cars between Osaka and Tokyo route. 

My routes will be. Narita airport to Tokyo.  Tokyo to Kyoto.  Kyoto to Yokohama.  Sounds like I’m good.  We have an overnight on our cruise in Osaka, so no need to get there by train.

41 minutes ago, hubofhockey said: My routes will be. Narita airport to Tokyo.  Tokyo to Kyoto.  Kyoto to Yokohama.  Sounds like I’m good.  We have an overnight on our cruise in Osaka, so no need to get there by train.

If Tokyo to Kyoto and Kyoto to Yokohama not on Tokaido-Sanyo-Kyushu Shinkansen, then you are good. I will be on Tokaido-Sanyo-Kyushu Shinkansen from Kyoto to Yokohama, train is from Hakata to Tokyo, so luggage rule apply to me. I got a good discount on green car. I will fly in to KIX (Osaka Kansai) airport, from there 90 min to Kyoto by train.  

• 4 weeks later...

I am booked on Diamond Princess in November 2023.  Princess still says docking at Tempozan but per the port schedule found on 

https://www.cruisemapper.com/ports/kobe-osaka-port-11 , we are docking in Kobe-Osaka.  I am confused.  You can use this to find your ship.   Not sure what to believe.  

2 hours ago, dogs49 said: I am booked on Diamond Princess in November 2023.  Princess still says docking at Tempozan but per the port schedule found on  https://www.cruisemapper.com/ports/kobe-osaka-port-11 , we are docking in Kobe-Osaka.  I am confused.  You can use this to find your ship.   Not sure what to believe.  

Use this cruise schedule issued by Osaka Port itself not any 3rd party schedule.

Our Celebrity cruise which caused me to start this thread is now back on the Osaka Port schedule again (don't worry it says 2020 on it, a Japanese person has confirmed it definitely is 2023 in Japanese). Use Chrome browser as it translates the site to English:

https://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/port/page/0000442982.html

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