I’ve lived in Osaka for 7 years
I speak English, Japanese
I am a Model, Dancer and art gallery staff.
My name is Aoi, and I am passionate about the unique charm of Osaka. One of my favorite landmarks is the Tower of the Sun, located in Expo '70 Commemorative Park. Its fascinating history, from near demolition to restoration and reopening in 2018, reflects the city's resilience. I also love visiting Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, particularly the peaceful Reifu-sha, where I feel connected to Japan's ancient spirit. With a deep knowledge of the city's arts scene, cultivated through four years of work in galleries and events, I can guide you through Osaka’s cultural landscape. From the vibrant Shinsaibashi and Namba neighborhoods to the serene Minamimorimachi area, I know where to find the best second-hand shops and hidden Kissatens. A perfect day in Osaka starts with a shrine visit, followed by exploring art galleries, vintage stores, and ending with a quiet coffee in one of the city’s charming Kissatens. Let me show you the Osaka I love.
City Unscripted you gave us the perfect guide in Miss Aoi Higuchi for our personalised 6-hour tour in Osaka. We were a party of 3 with mixed needs. 2 of us were seniors with limited mobility, who had been to Japan and Osaka before. It was our younger and fitter third member's first ever visit to Japan. Between us we wanted to do leisurely strolls around buzzing Dotonburi through quirky hidden alleys, visit to Osaka castle and Shinto/Zen temples or shrines, visit to a woodblock print museum and a second-hand bookstore to buy original woodblock prints, plus a special birthday lunch for my husband who turned 81. Miss Aoi (dancer/model/guide/art gallery assistant, who spoke very good English) was meticulous in her planning. She consulted me several times before our arrival and carefully researched areas to visit, walking times between them, suggested several restaurants options with location, English menus and prices (we wanted a teppanyaki restaurant which also served seafood for our friend who does not eat meat, which had western style seating and was away from the tourist crowd), museum options, even jazz bar options! It ended up being the perfect day for each of us with our different needs, and a great birthday for my husband with the perfect restaurant choice. And I was thrilled to be able to acquire a pair of original 19th century woodblock prints by a renowned print maker. Arigato gozaimasu, Aoi-san! This wouldn't have been possible without you.
read full reviewOctober 2024