Food & drink Instant book

Osaka: Mysterious Back Alleys & BBQ Dinner

Osaka, Japan · 3h · 1–10 people

Runs in English

  • Easy
  • From age 18
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transport nearby

Your guide

Thomas Mirgiannis

Osaka, Japan

Originally born in Melbourne Australia, I moved to Japan for "1 year" MANY years ago. (Sorry mum). We specialise in foodie tours with a …

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Skip the "usual" tours. Here we go through Nishinari, the "ghetto" of Osaka. We talk about the gritty reality of Japan life including the secretive mafia, red light districts and abandoned buildings.

This night tour lifts up the rug to expose a side of the city/country visitors never glimpse. Wander narrow alleys lined with retro storefronts, abandoned homes, buzzing pachinko rooms, and corners with history you definitely want to hear. We talk openly and respectfully about the people who live here, about struggle, pride, survival, and the strange beauty that thrives far from the tourist trails. From the secretive Japanese mafia, to social expectations, to what it means to be homeless in Japan, no question is off limits. If you’ve been to Japan before, or just want to witness something far removed from the “normal” tours, then this is for you. At the end of the walking section of the tour there is an opportunity to walk through Tobita Shinchi, the Red Light District of Osaka. After the walk, the night flips from gritty to yummy as we settle into a tiny local BBQ joint and eat like royalty. Smoked hotdogs, brisket, pulled pork, house specials from the smoker. A massive meal, all made fresh, and every bite supporting the neighbourhood that just shared its stories with you. This tour includes discussion of sensitive topics such as mental health, sex work, addiction, and social hardship. These subjects are handled with care and respect, but may be distressing for some participants.

What's included

  • Food and drinks
  • Amazing BBQ dinner in the heart of Nishinari
  • Local Tour guide

What to bring

  • Wear appropriate clothing! Rain, hail or shine, we run in all weather

Know before you go

  • Pets are welcome
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for people with heart conditions

Meeting point: Exit 5, Ebisucho station.

Open in maps

Cancellation policy: Free until 24 hours before: Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start. After that, no refund.

Cancel within that window and you get your full deposit back. After it, you do not get your deposit back. If the guide cancels, you always get your deposit back.

Map of this tour's route, with 2 marked stops

What you'll do

  1. 1
    Step out of the postcard version of Osaka and walk into the raw reality of Nishinari
    See details See less

    Step out of the postcard version of Osaka and walk into the raw reality of Nishinari. This night tour lifts up the rug to expose a side of the city visitors never glimpse. Wander narrow alleys lined with retro storefronts, abandoned homes, buzzing pachinko rooms, and corners with history you'll wanna hear about. We talk openly and respectfully about the people who live here, about struggle, pride, survival, and the strange beauty that thrives far from the tourist trails. After the walk, the night flips from gritty to yummy as we settle into a tiny local BBQ joint and eat like royalty. Smoked hotdogs, brisket, pulled pork, house specials from the smoker. All you can eat, all made fresh, and every bite supporting the neighbourhood that just shared its stories with you. This tour includes discussion of sensitive topics such as mental health, sex work, suicide, addiction, and social hardship. These subjects are handled with respect, but may be distressing for some participants.

  2. 2
    Welcome to Aki's BBQ spot!
    See details See less

    Welcome to Aki's BBQ spot! A locally owned and operated spot where we finish every one of our back alley tours. Deliciously smoked meat and cheap drinks to finish the night off with a smile.

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10000 JPY / person · party of 2
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