Visit Osaka by waterbus

Osaka's "Aqualiner" water buses cruise along the Okawa River, which runs through the heart of the city. Operated by the Keihan company, they offer a panoramic view of both Osaka's architecture and the lush green parks that line the river. A must-do in spring, when the cherry and plum trees along the Okawa are in bloom. In summer, the mini-cruise is an ideal way to cool off and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Parks and monuments

Embark at the Yodoyabashi quay, next to the bridge of the same name, just opposite Osaka City Hall. From here, the waterbus heads east. On your left, past the municipal library, you have a view of the island and Nakanoshima Park, the oldest public park in Kansai's capital. The boat makes its first stop at the Temmabashi wharf. Opposite the wharf, another patch of greenery unfolds: Minami Temmabashi Park.

The coin museum

The tour continues, as the waterbus heads north along the right-hand side of Fujita Teiato Park, with its Japanese garden and cherry blossoms in April. On your left, you'll soon pass the Mint of Japan, a large brick building lined with over 300 cherry trees. Its museum presents the history and process of coinage in Japan.
 

Osaka Castle

The bus continues along the edge of Kemasakura no miya park to the Sakuramiya-jinja Shinto shrine. Here, it stops at the OAP pier before turning back. It then passes under several bridges before arriving at Osaka Castle Park, the city's landmark monument. In the foreground, the plum garden is at its most beautiful in March. The waterbus then returns to the point of departure, the Yodoyabashi quay, from where you can continue your tour of Osaka, this time on dry land...