Osaka Wonder Cruise — Local services in Osaka

The boat ride lasts just 20 minutes, with 10 minutes in one direction before making a U-turn and returning along the same path. You can also explore the same area by walking along the river on either side. If you're not particularly fond of walking, this boat ride is a nice way to view the buildings and neon signs along the river. However, if you prefer walking, paying the admission fee of 1,500 yen may not be worth it.

I can’t speak for the other boats of the same company, but on ours, the "tour guide" didn't provide any information about the city's history, the interesting buildings, or the stories behind some well-known signboards. Her main task seemed to be yelling.. . "Say KONBANWA" (good evening) or " Say OOKINI" (thank you) and asking us to wave whenever another boat passes by or when we approach a bridge with onlookers. When that became boring, she started asking passengers, "So, which country are you from?" Unfortunately, she wasn't familiar with the names of some countries, so that activity didn't last long.

A few minutes into the boat ride, she introduced the captain, who stood up, waved at all of us while holding a tip box, and gestured that tips were welcome. This was the first time I had seen someone asking for a tip in Japan, as the country doesn't have a tipping culture. Despite that, I might have considered giving a tip if the service had...

The Osaka Wonder Cruise goes from one side of the canal and back through Dotonbori. It's quite a short cruise, but you can get some wonderful views of Dotonbori's iconic attractions. It's also just a nice experience to unwind after the massive crowds. The boat also stopped under the Glico sign, and the staff encouraged guests to have their picture taken. So if you'd like a picture under the sign without the queues, this is a great way to get it.

If I have some advice, make sure to get to the Wonder Cruise early. There is a first-come-first-served seating arrangement, and if you're at the back of the line, your group might get split up or sat away from the views.

I wouldn't say that it's a 'must do' attraction. You probably won't learn anything new or see anything different than you would from walking the river, but I still really enjoyed the cruise. Plus it was included in the price of my Osaka Amazing...

Date: 19 Oct 2018

Activity: I took the boat ride from Temmabashi pier to Dotonburi pier.

Good: • This is a boat ride which brings you under many bridges across the Dotonburi river. • You will experience a mini 'Panama Canal' scenario.

Bad: • If you are hoping for many scenic views for photo-taking, then you will be disappointed.

Comments: • It's free if you have the Osaka Amazing Pass. • If not, you can pay cash on the boat itself. • You need to reserve your seat through its website (so that you won't be disappointed). • The boat can only take a max of 12 passengers. • The boat ride takes about 45 mins.

Overall: • It's quite enjoyable and unique. Worth the ride for those who are not in a rush....