Jan Jan Yokocho Alley in Osaka: Food Guide in Nanyo Dori Shotengai
Osaka is a city where unique food culture has flourished. It's known as the "Nation's Kitchen" and "The City Where People Eat Until They Drop." Particularly famous are affordable and delicious foods like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Additionally, many sake-producing regions like Nada, Itami, and Ikeda are nearby, making it an area where excellent sake gathers.
Many street foods were born in Osaka. For example, "kushikatsu," an Osaka delicacy, originated in Jan Jan Yokocho in the Shinsekai area.
Shinsekai, which I just mentioned, is one of Osaka's culinary centers. It's a charming district where you can enjoy exquisite Osaka cuisine and a nostalgic retro atmosphere.
This time, I'll introduce Jan Jan Yokocho, a gourmet street in Shinsekai. I've compiled recommended restaurants by category: kushikatsu, takoyaki, and places where you can enjoy sake.
I'll also introduce spots beyond food. Please use this as a reference for your Shinsekai sightseeing.
Shinsekai: A Downtown Area South of Namba with Remnants of Old-Town Charm
Shinsekai is a district in Osaka's Naniwa Ward. It's a downtown area of Osaka where retro streetscapes and shops remain. In the early 20th century, an amusement park opened in this area, attracting many shops and people.
The district's landmark tower, Tsutenkaku, is a 108m observation tower. The nighttime illumination of Tsutenkaku and the vibrant neon signs of the streets create a distinctive, lively scenery.
Shinsekai is also known for its concentration of affordable and delicious restaurants. Particularly popular is Jan Jan Yokocho, a gourmet street in the southeastern part of Shinsekai.
Jan Jan Yokocho: Enjoy Nostalgic Atmosphere and Exquisite Osaka Cuisine
Jan Jan Yokocho is home to unpretentious, delicious restaurants loved by locals. These include kushikatsu, udon, yakiniku, set meal restaurants, and standing bars.
In Osaka, it's crucial for restaurants to be both delicious and reasonably priced. This relates to Osaka being a merchant city and its people having excellent financial sense. Jan Jan Yokocho has gathered restaurants where you can enjoy top-tier Osaka cuisine at some of the most affordable prices in the city.
Moreover, Jan Jan Yokocho is a street that retains the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese shopping arcade. You can enjoy delicious Osaka cuisine in a nostalgic setting.
Jan Jan Yokocho's Official Name is "Nanyo Dori Shopping Street"
The official name of Jan Jan Yokocho is "Nanyo Dori Shopping Street." This shopping street extends 180m from Dobutsuen-mae Station to Tsutenkaku Tower.
"Jan Jan" is a Japanese word expressing a lively sound or atmosphere. The street was nicknamed "Jan Jan Yokocho" because of the bustling atmosphere created by the lined-up restaurants, their staff, and customers.
5 Recommended Restaurants to Enjoy Osaka Cuisine in Jan Jan Yokocho
1. Yaekatsu
Source: Tabelog
Yaekatsu is a kushikatsu specialty shop where you can eat premium "kushikatsu," a representative Osaka delicacy. It's a popular establishment that has been operating in Shinsekai for over 70 years and is beloved by locals.
The shop's standard menu is the "3-piece kushikatsu set." This consists of beef skewered and deep-fried with breadcrumbs, creating a juicy beef interior with a crispy exterior of fine breadcrumbs that becomes addictive. The "3-piece doteyaki set," which is beef simmered in miso, is also popular. The miso has a distinctly sweet taste and is very popular with regulars.
At Yaekatsu, kushikatsu is eaten by dipping it in a container of the shop's special sauce. In Osaka, there's a basic rule that kushikatsu should only be dipped once in the sauce container. This rule applies without exception at Yaekatsu, so please dip only once. The breading is packed with enough umami that it's delicious even with just one dip.
Yaekatsu is the first place I recommend to anyone wanting to try authentic kushikatsu in Jan Jan Yokocho. When you visit Shinsekai, make Yaekatsu your first stop.
Store Information
- Address: 3-4-13 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Phone: 06-6643-6332
- Hours: 10:30 AM - 8:30 PM
- Official Website: https://www.instagram.com/shinnsekai_yaekatsu/
2. Tengu
Source: Tripadvisor
Tengu is a long-established kushikatsu restaurant that has been operating in Jan Jan Yokocho for over 50 years. It's a famous kushikatsu specialty shop rivaling the previously introduced Yaekatsu.
The highlight of Tengu is their kushikatsu with thick breading and substantial portions. The breadcrumbs used in the coating are fine and crispy, with a gentle mouthfeel. The thick, voluminous breading is part of Tengu's charm.
My recommendation is their standard beef "kushikatsu." It's such a famous dish that nobody visits Tengu without ordering it, so be sure to try it.
Also, their "doteyaki" is thoroughly stewed and has a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It has a distinct sweetness that pairs excellently with beer.
While the previously mentioned Yaekatsu typically serves sets of 3 pieces, at Tengu, you can order kushikatsu one piece at a time. The price range is almost the same. It's recommended to try both shops to see which style you prefer.
For kushikatsu lovers and those who want to enjoy thick breading, definitely visit Tengu.
Store Information
- Address: 3-4-12 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Mondays
- Phone: 06-6641-3577
- Hours: 10:30 AM - 8:30 PM
3. Ganso Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsekai Main Store
Source: Yahoo Travel
Ganso Kushikatsu Daruma is a kushikatsu specialty shop that represents Osaka.
The highlight is their special traditional sauce that makes everything delicious, whether it's meat or vegetables. The dark brown sauce is made using Daruma's cherished recipe, accumulated over 90 years of history. It has a rich taste that clings well to the fried breading.
When you enter the shop, first order their signature menu item, the beef "Ganso Kushikatsu." The bread is rather thick, with a chewy texture that's satisfying to eat.
The "marinated tuna" is also recommended. The well-seasoned tuna is covered in crispy breading and is incredibly juicy.
Try eating it with the accompanying cabbage, which is standard at kushikatsu shops. The cabbage is all-you-can-eat at no extra charge. It neutralizes the oiliness and enhances the taste of the traditional sauce.
Daruma is said to have created kushikatsu, which is now a representative Osaka delicacy. If you want to try extremely popular and delicious kushikatsu, be sure to visit Ganso Kushikatsu Daruma.
Store Information
- Address: 2-3-9 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 050-5493-3805
- Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM
- Official Website: https://www.kushikatu-daruma.com/tenpo_sinsekai_honten.html
If you are interested in Kushikatsu Daruma, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
If you are interested in Kushiage in Osaka, check the article below! I summarized Kushiage Restaurants in Osaka I recommend and how I felt each Restaurant.
4. Shinsekai Kankan
Source: Tabelog
Shinsekai Kankan is a takoyaki shop that's so popular it has daily queues. It's located right next to Jan Jan Yokocho.
The highlight of Kankan is their fluffy-textured takoyaki, typical of Osaka-style takoyaki. This unique texture and the batter thoroughly infused with Japanese dashi stock are the secrets behind the queues of customers.
The recommended order is their simple 8-piece takoyaki for 450 yen, which is perfect for eating while walking. The batter has a golden-brown color, and the texture is very soft. When you take a bite, the inside is creamy. In your mouth, the flavors of octopus, ginger, and green onion blend perfectly. The sauce is on the sweet side, with a light taste that's easy to eat.
Being able to enjoy authentic and delicious takoyaki at this price is unique to Jan Jan Yokocho. If you want to taste reasonably priced, Osaka-style takoyaki, stop by Kankan.
Store Information
- Address: 3-5-16 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
- Phone: 06-6636-2915
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
5. Kitaya Jan Jan Yokocho Branch
Source: Tabelog
Kitaya Jan Jan Yokocho Branch is a popular takoyaki shop right in front of Dobutsuen-mae subway station.
The highlight of Kitaya is the wide variety of seasonings and toppings you can choose from. You can enjoy delicious takoyaki topped with plenty of mayonnaise and green onions in various flavors depending on your topping choice.
The recommended menu item is their standard 10-piece takoyaki for 500 yen. The batter contains not only octopus but also konjac, resulting in a very soft finish.
You can choose from Japanese Worcestershire sauce, no sauce, rock salt, Japanese-style soy sauce, or ponzu for toppings. Ponzu is a Japanese condiment that combines soy sauce with citrus essence.
The shop recommends trying it without sauce. The batter is well-seasoned, so you can fully appreciate the umami even without sauce. For those who prefer a lighter taste, I personally recommend the rock salt option.
Their "takosen," which is takoyaki sandwiched between rice crackers, is also a popular menu item. This is definitely a recommended shop for those who want to try takoyaki with reliable taste and a playful twist that's different from the ordinary.
Store Information
- Address: 3-4-8 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Wednesdays
- Phone: None
- Hours: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
If you are interested in Takoyaki, check the article below! I summarized Takoyaki Restaurants in Osaka I recommend and how I felt each Takoyaki Restaurant.
3 Restaurants & Shops Where You Can Enjoy Local Food and Drinks!
1. Azuma Shokudo
Source: Tabelog
Azuma Shokudo is a famous, long-established diner that has been loved in Shinsekai for many years.
The highlight of Azuma Shokudo is that you can taste the nostalgic, warm flavors of an Osaka home kitchen. People even travel from other prefectures seeking this nostalgic taste. Many people visit regularly, craving the taste.
The shop's signature dish is "Stew Udon." The soup has a gentle flavor infused with vegetables. The simple soup flavor is absorbed into the udon noodles. While the seasoning is light, the udon makes it filling and satisfying. They also offer a menu item with just the stew, without udon.
"Kayaku Gohan," rice cooked with meat and vegetables, is also a popular menu item. Many people enjoy alcoholic beverages with these flavorful dishes. Enjoy the nostalgic taste with cold sake or beer.
If you're interested in the unchanged, everyday flavors of Osaka, definitely visit Azuma Shokudo.
Store Information
- Address: 2-5-7 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Phone: 06-6631-4248
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
2. Daiko Sushi Main Store
Source: Yahoo Maps
Daiko Sushi Main Store is a popular restaurant where you can enjoy sushi at prices even more reasonable than conveyor belt sushi restaurants. Sushi chefs prepare sushi right in front of customers at the counter.
The highlight is the excellent cost-performance ratio, allowing you to enjoy generous portions of sushi at affordable prices. Each plate comes with three pieces of nigiri sushi, letting you fully enjoy your chosen toppings. Being able to enjoy fresh seafood sushi at these prices and portions is unique to Jan Jan Yokocho.
While it varies by day, one menu item I can always recommend is the mackerel nigiri. Despite the low price, the mackerel is thick, juicy, and fatty. Being served as a set of three pieces makes it very satisfying.
"Tai no Aranie" (simmered sea bream) is also a popular menu item. Many people order it as an accompaniment to alcohol. Try enjoying it with a bottle of beer.
All sushi offerings provide portions that exceed expectations for their price. When you want to fill up on delicious sushi with drinks in Jan Jan Yokocho, stop by Daiko Sushi.
Store Information
- Address: 3-2-18 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Thursdays
- Phone: 06-6641-4278
- Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Official Website: https://daikosushi.jp/access/daikosushi-honten/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daikosushi_osaka/
3. Niku no Sakamoto
Source: Rakuten gnavi
Niku no Sakamoto is a butcher shop near the entrance of Shinsekai. While originally a meat specialty store, you can also enjoy meat-based side dishes and meals.
The highlight is that you can taste meat dishes made with fresh meat unique to a butcher shop. Their signature menu item is "Korokke" (croquette). Korokke is a dish made by kneading potatoes and ground meat together, then frying them. Niku no Sakamoto's korokke is fried on the spot, so you can eat it piping hot. The surprisingly low price of 80 yen is also part of its popularity secret.
Their "Katsu Sando" (cutlet sandwich), which features a 5cm thick fried pork cutlet, is also very popular. When I visit Niku no Sakamoto, I always order the Katsu Sando. The combination of mustard and special sauce spread inside creates an exquisite taste.
It's also famous that these menu items are incredibly delicious when paired with beer. Some people bring their own canned beer, and the shop also sells beer. There's a small eat-in space, so definitely try enjoying the exceptionally delicious meat there with a beer.
Store Information
- Address: 1-22-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Thursdays
- Phone: 06-6641-0508
- Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Official Website: https://shinsekai-nikunosakamoto.com/?utm_campaign=hp&utm_medium=mybusiness&utm_source=google
2 Recommended Facilities Where You Can Enjoy Traditional Japanese Entertainment Beyond Food!
1. Public Entertainment Hall "Hihokan Main Store"
Hihokan Main Store is an entertainment facility where you can enjoy several traditional Japanese festival games. You can primarily enjoy retro Japanese games like shooting galleries, ring toss, and shuriken throwing. On the second floor, there's also a retro game center with crane games and more.
The highlight is that you can experience the atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals anytime. The interior decorations meticulously recreate the atmosphere of Japanese festivals. You should be able to experience an atmosphere similar to participating in a Japanese festival.
The shooting gallery is especially recommended. Hihokan has a large shooting gallery counter that's 11m wide. Here, you can shoot down colorfully displayed snacks and toys to take home.
At the shuriken throwing game, you can experience an atmosphere like being in a traditional ninja house.
All the games here have simple rules, making them suitable for children too. If you want to experience the lively atmosphere of a Japanese festival, definitely visit Hihokan.
Store Information
- Address: 3-4-11 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 06-6641-0508
- Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Official Website: https://osakairasshai.start.osaka-info.jp/u_tourism/course03/hihokan/
2. Retro Arcade Zarigani
Source: Abeno Keizai Shinbun
Retro Arcade Zarigani is a game center where you can enjoy valuable retro games.
The highlight is that you can play rare, treasure-like retro games that are now highly valuable. Many of the game machines can only be played here.
Among them, I especially recommend the "After Burner" game machine series released in 1987. It's a game where players become fighter pilots and can play with a sense of actually being in a cockpit. The cool fighter jet design, said to be modeled after the Hollywood movie "Top Gun," became hugely popular worldwide at the time.
Game fans from all over Japan and the world continually visit this shop to play games that can only be found here.
If you're a game enthusiast, definitely visit Zarigani when you come to Shinsekai. As it's a place where you can play while feeling nostalgia and uniqueness, even those who aren't hardcore game fans can thoroughly enjoy it.
Store Information
- Address: 1-21-4 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: None
- Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Official Website: https://x.com/retrozarigani