Naniwa Exploration Cruise with Rakugo comedians

The “Naniwa Exploration Cruise with a Rakugo Performer” is a sightseeing boat cruise that departs from Minatomachi River Place in Namba and tours the rivers of Osaka City, featuring guidance by young Kamigata rakugo storytellers along with various performances and comedic bits. The cruise is planned and run by the Osaka Machiasobi Campaign Promotion Council and is operated (as a vessel service) by Ipponmatsu Kaiun Co., Ltd. The boats used are Ipponmatsu Kaiun’s “Kirari” and “Hotaru,” equipped with a sliding glass roof and a lift-type cabin that can lower when passing under low bridges. Over about 90 minutes, the cruise travels four rivers: the Dotonbori River, Kizu River, Dojima River, and Higashi-Yokobori River. Along the way, passengers can see sights such as floodgates built for water purification and storm-surge prevention, Dotonbori (famous for the Glico sign), and the Osaka City Central Public Hall in Nakanoshima. In addition to daytime services, a night cruise is also offered, featuring illuminated views of the Central Public Hall and Namba’s nightscape. Beer, shochu, local Kawachi wine from Osaka, and a special bento available only onboard are sold on the boat.