SHINSAIBASHI-SUJI SHOPPING STREET: Enjoy Fashion, Cosmetics, and Osaka Cuisines!
Osaka is often called "The Nation's Kitchen" (tenkanodaidokoro) or "The City of Kuidaore" (a place where people eat until they drop), reflecting its unique food culture that has developed over time. Famous Osaka delicacies include takoyaki (octopus dumplings made by cooking batter with octopus pieces and seasonings in a special molded pan), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes with meat and vegetables), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables). These dishes are known for being both delicious and affordable. Many street foods originating from Osaka have become so popular that there are even areas famous for concentrating these local specialties.
Osaka is recognized as Japan's second major center after Tokyo, historically attracting people, cultures, and ingredients from all over the country. About 7% of Japan's population is concentrated in Osaka, and approximately 10% of foreign residents in Japan live in Osaka. The influx of people has led to the development of various commercial areas, and with the increase in tourists, shopping streets have evolved to cater to tourism demands.
Now, let's introduce Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, one of Osaka's central shopping areas that attracts many tourists. Just as Kyoto parks & hiking trails offer a peaceful escape from urban life, Shinsaibashi-suji provides an exciting urban adventure for shoppers and food enthusiasts.
Shinsaibashi-suji: Osaka's Premier Shopping Street Extending North from Dotonbori River
Shinsaibashi-suji represents Osaka's bustling downtown area, stretching from Midosuji Avenue to Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. It's one of Osaka's most popular shopping districts, crowded not only on weekends but also on weekdays. The area boasts long-established department stores, high-end brand shops, and numerous specialty stores, rivaling Tokyo's Ginza as a luxury brand destination.
Shinsaibashi originated in the Edo period when Okada Shinsai built a wooden bridge. In the Meiji era, it was renovated into a stone arch bridge. Although it was once removed due to the filling of Nagahori River in the Showa era, part of the stone bridge has been restored and still exists today. It's also one of the 50 famous bridges of Naniwa (old name for Osaka).
From Cosmetic Stores to Department Stores! A List of Shops in Shinsaibashi-suji That Have Everything
Cosmetic & Drug Stores
Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Matsumoto Kiyoshi offers a wide range of products including cosmetics, skincare, food, and baby products. The Shinsaibashi store's convenient location within the shopping arcade is a major draw.
In addition to general cosmetic brands, Matsumoto Kiyoshi also offers its own private brand products. These are known for their excellent quality despite their affordable prices.
The store's distinctive yellow and black sign makes it easy to spot in the city.
Store Information（Matsumoto Kiyoshi Shinsaibashi Store）:
- Address: 2-1-21 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6224-0201
- Hours: 10:00-22:00
- Official website: https://www.shinsaibashi.or.jp/stores/show/337/ja
Matsumoto Kiyoshi Shinsaibashi South Store is popular due to its convenient location, just a 4-minute walk from Namba Station. It's always bustling with tourists who visit while exploring nearby attractions.
Despite being in central Osaka, the store boasts a large sales area spread across two floors - ground floor and basement. It has a particularly extensive selection of cosmetic products popular among tourists, ensuring you'll likely find what you're looking for.
Store Information（Matsumoto Kiyoshi Shinsaibashi South Store）:
- Address: 2-5-5 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6211-6307
- Hours: 10:00-22:00
- Official website: https://www.matsukiyococokara-online.com/map?kid=10001688
Matsumoto Kiyoshi Shinsaibashi Central Store is conveniently located within a 4-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station, 6 minutes from Yotsubashi Station, and 7 minutes from Nagahoribashi Station, making it easily accessible from various stations.
The store carries a wide range of popular Japanese cosmetic brands including Shiseido, KOSE, Sofina, and Kanebo. You'll find an array of highly-rated cosmetics with excellent online reviews. Take your time to compare products and find the perfect one for you.
Store Information（Matsumoto Kiyoshi Shinsaibashi Central Store）:
- Address: 2-1-21 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6120-9198
- Hours: 10:00-22:30
- Official website: https://www.matsukiyococokara-online.com/map?kid=10001671
Tsuruha Drug Shinsaibashi-suji 2-chome Store
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Tsuruha Drug's motto is "Providing richness and leisure to customers' lives" and it's known for its community-oriented service.
In terms of cosmetics, they offer not only domestic brands but also a rich selection of Korean cosmetics that are gaining global attention. Korean beauty products are famous for their high quality, making them highly recommended.
Look for the red sign with a crane design.
Store Information:
- Address: 2-2-19 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6214-0268
- Hours: 10:00-23:00
- Official website: https://shop.tsuruha-g.com/1548
Daikoku Drug Ultra Shinsaibashi Store
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Daikoku Drug's motto is "Energetic! Super cheap! Daikoku Drug", and they're known for selling products at reasonable prices.
They offer a wide range of affordable cosmetics, often referred to as "puchipura" (meaning very cheap in Japanese). Some stores have special sale days where items are priced at 70 yen or 80 yen, or offer a 5% discount on all items (with some exceptions), allowing for even more budget-friendly shopping.
Look for the sign with orange background and blue lettering.
Store Information:
- Address: 1-3-24 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6121-7733
- Hours: 9:05-23:50 (may vary)
- Official website: https://daikokudrug.com/store/ultrashinsaibashi/
Sugi Drug Shinsaibashi Store
Source: Yahoo! maps
Sugi Drug is a drugstore that offers not only daily necessities but also cosmetic counseling sales and over-the-counter medicine sales. Their cosmetics range from affordable to high-end lines, allowing you to find your ideal cosmetic products.
Some stores have long operating hours, opening at 9:00 and closing at 23:00, making it possible to shop during gaps in your sightseeing schedule.
Look for the sign with the cedar tree illustration, which is also the store's namesake.
Store Information:
- Address: 1-3-22 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-4708-3906
- Hours: 9:00-24:00
- Official website: https://www.sugi-net.jp/stores/001478
Cocokarafine
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Cocokarafine's motto is "hospitality for our customers," and its appeal lies in its cleanliness and easy-to-view product layout. Much like the tranquil beauty of a Kyoto park, the store offers a serene shopping experience.
Cosmetics, which are often small in size but numerous in quantity, are neatly displayed, making it easy to find what you're looking for. Just window shopping here can be as exciting as planning a hiking trip through Japan's scenic landscapes.
The store's sign, featuring white and gentle pink colors, creates a soothing atmosphere and serves as a landmark.
Store Information（Cocokarafine Shinsaibashi Main Store）:
- Address: 3-7-27 Minamisemba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6258-9411
- Business hours: Weekdays 8:00-23:00, Weekends and holidays 10:00-23:00
- Official website: https://shinsaibashi.ne.jp/ココカラファイン-心斎橋本店/
Cocokarafine Shinsaibashi Nagahori Store is an urban-style large flagship store that opened in 2018. With a sales floor area of over 600m2, it boasts a wide range of products across four floors from the third basement to the first floor. The store is particularly known for its extensive selection of skincare and cosmetics for women, rivaling the diversity found in Kyoto's parks.
For international tourists, the store offers tax-free shopping, luggage storage services, and mobile payment options like "WeChat Payment," making it as convenient as a well-planned hiking trip. These services reflect the Japanese omotenashi (hospitality) culture.
The store caters to the diverse needs of both locals and tourists, much like how Kyoto's parks serve various visitors.
Store Information（Cocokarafine Shinsaibashi Nagahori-dori Store）:
- Address: 1-1-10 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6252-2033
- Business hours: 10:00-22:00
- Official website: https://www.matsukiyococokara-online.com/map?kid=20002262
3 Convenient Shops with High Quality & Low Prices Where You Can Find Almost Anything
Daiso Shinsaibashi-suji 2-chome Store
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Daiso is a 100-yen shop with the motto "Changing people's lives for the better with one price." The store offers a wide range of products, from stationery and storage items to interior goods, tableware, and food, all densely packed like trees in a lush Kyoto park.
The highlight is the store's product strength, with over 7,000 items in stock at all times and about 1,200 new products introduced each month. The product development power, which includes seasonal items and convenient gadgets that make you think "I've been looking for something like this!", is truly impressive.
With so many attractive products, shopping here feels like going on a treasure hunt or an exciting hiking adventure.
Store Information:
- Address: 2-2-19-3F Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 082-420-0100
- Business hours: 10:00-22:00
- Official website: https://www.daiso-sangyo.co.jp/shop/detail/002815
3COINS +
Source: Yahoo! maps
3COINS+ is a large store of 3COINS, which sells products for 300 yen each. With the motto "Helping to bring a little happiness to our customers," it offers a range of products priced at 1,000 yen and 1,500 yen in addition to the items sold at regular 3COINS stores.
The highlight is that they sell daily necessities with added trendiness and style, making you happy to use them. While prices are higher than 100-yen shops, the design and quality are superior. Shopping here offers a different kind of enjoyment compared to Daiso, much like how hiking in different parks can offer varied experiences.
Store Information:
- Address: Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: December 31, January 1, 3rd Monday of February
- Phone: 06-6282-2093
- Business hours: Monday to Saturday 11:00-21:00, Sunday 11:00-20:30
- Official website: https://www.crystaweb.jp/shop/3coins.html
Don Quijote Dotonbori Midosuji Store
Source: Official website
Don Quijote is a retail store that sells everything from groceries to miscellaneous goods, clothing, and home appliances. It was named after the classic "Don Quixote," aiming for store development that isn't bound by common sense or preconceived notions. Affectionately known as "Donki," it's a general discount store popular among people of all ages and genders.
The highlight is the product shelves stacked with items almost to the ceiling, leaving no space unused - a stark contrast to the open spaces of Kyoto parks. The genres aren't clearly separated, so you might find yourself impulse buying products near what you were looking for, creating a new kind of shopping enjoyment.
Open 24 hours a day, you can enjoy shopping without worrying about time, much like how you can enjoy hiking at various times of the day for different experiences.
Store Information:
- Address: 2-5-9 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 0570-063-911
- Business hours: 24 hours
- Official website: https://www.donki.com/store/shop_detail.php?shop_id=373
3 Recommended Fashion Stores in Shinsaibashi Where You Can Find Everything
Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store (Department Store)
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store originated when Daimonjiya, founded in Kyoto in 1717, opened a branch in Shinsaibashi in 1726.
After about 300 years, it reopened in 2019 with the concept "Shinsaibashi, the envy of the world." However, the beautiful Vories architecture designed by William Merrell Vories still exists, adding elegance to the cityscape, much like how historic structures enhance the beauty of Kyoto parks.
The highlight is that it houses 370 specialty stores, including 37 stores that are the first to open in the Kansai region, offering food, apparel, interior goods, and more. With well-developed inbound services, it's also highly rated by foreign tourists, providing an experience as diverse as a hiking trip through Japan's varied landscapes.
Store Information:
- Address: 1-7-1 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: January 1, 2
- Phone: 06-6271-1231
- Business hours: 10:00-20:00 (may vary by store)
- Official website: https://www.daimaru.co.jp/shinsaibashi/
UNIQLO Shinsaibashi Store
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
UNIQLO is a Japanese-made fast fashion brand that has expanded globally, not just in Japan. Its appeal lies in product development that caters to all demographics, without targeting specific genders, ages, or races, much like how Kyoto parks welcome visitors from all walks of life.
In addition to functional and simple design clothes, they also sell clothes in collaboration with famous designers. Popular items often sell out quickly.
The highlight of UNIQLO Shinsaibashi Store is its theme of "Double Deluxe," offering the largest selection of products and services in the Kansai region. Why not enjoy relaxed shopping in the open and spacious store interior, reminiscent of a scenic hiking trail? The store's atmosphere provides a refreshing shopping experience, much like the rejuvenating feeling of exploring nature.
Store Information:
- Address: 1-2-17 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: January 1
- Phone: 050-3355-7797
- Business hours: 11:00-21:00
- Official website: https://map.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/detail/10101812
Onitsuka Tiger
Source: Shinsaibashi Official website
Onitsuka Tiger is a Japanese sports shoe manufacturer founded by Kihachiro Onitsuka in 1949. After expanding overseas in the 1970s, the company changed its name to ASICS. However, in 2002, it was revived as the fashion brand Onitsuka Tiger.
The retro and simple design of their products is easy to match with any outfit, and many overseas fashion professionals are fans. Much like how Kyoto parks blend traditional and modern elements, Onitsuka Tiger combines classic designs with contemporary fashion.
The highlight of the Onitsuka Tiger Shinsaibashi store is its extensive range of products, from shoes to apparel, in the largest store space in the Kansai region. Please immerse yourself in Onitsuka Tiger's unique world at this flagship store in Kansai, an experience as enriching as hiking through Japan's diverse landscapes.
Store Information:
- Address: 1-4-22 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone: 06-6252-6610
- Business hours: 11:00-20:00
- Official website: https://www.onitsukatiger.com/jp/magazine/shoplocation/osaka-shinsaibashi/
If you are interested in Shopping in Osaka, check the article below! I summarized Shopping Places in Osaka I recommend and how I felt each Place.
5 Delicious Osaka Gourmet Shops to Enjoy in the Heart of Shinsaibashi
Kushikatsu Daruma Shinsaibashi Store
Source: Tabelog
Kushikatsu Daruma is a long-established shop that originated the famous Osaka specialty, kushikatsu, in 1929. The frying oil is a unique blend of vegetable and animal oils, resulting in a light, crispy texture without any greasy aftertaste. It's as refreshing as a breeze in a Kyoto park.
The secret sauce, which is forbidden to double-dip, is light yet sweet and pairs well with any ingredient. It's as versatile as a well-planned hiking route that suits various terrains.
The kushiage menu is diverse, ranging from standard to limited-time offerings, including meat, vegetables, and cheese. There's joy in selecting from this variety, much like choosing trails in a vast park. Try the taste of Osaka that has been loved by locals since its founding - it's an addiction waiting to happen!
Store Information:
- Address: 1-5-17 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 06-6121-5594
- Business hours: 11:00-22:30
- Official website: https://www.kushikatu-daruma.com/location/shinsaibashi
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.
Okonomiyaki Teppan Sakaba Doraju
Source: Tabelog
Okonomiyaki Teppan Sakaba Doraju serves okonomiyaki, a famous soul food of Osaka. The signature okonomiyaki has a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, creating different textures that are sure to be addictive. It's a must-try dish, as essential to an Osaka visit as hiking is to a Kyoto park experience.
The menu includes a wide range of items, from pork and squid okonomiyaki to Wagyu steak, vegetable teppanyaki, and yakisoba. Drinks are also plentiful, with beer, shochu, wine, and more. Why not enjoy an Osaka night with local soul food, much like enjoying a night view after a day of hiking?
Store Information:
- Address: 1-16-19 Higashi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone: 050-5487-4043
- Business hours: 18:00-2:00
- Official website: https://drajyu.gorp.jp/
If you are interested in Okonamiyaki in Osaka, check the article below! I summarized Okonomiyaki Restaurants in Osaka I recommend and how I felt each Restaurant.
Ganso Ajiho
Source: Tabelog
Ganso Ajiho offers takoyaki, a famous Japanese snack, along with oden and yakisoba at reasonable prices. It's a culinary adventure as exciting as hiking through Kyoto's parks.
For takoyaki, you can choose from three flavors: regular takoyaki, yuzu ponzu, and mayo tako. The most popular is the dashi (soup stock made by simmering vegetables, meat, and dried ingredients) soaked takoyaki. With a crispy exterior and a soft, melting interior, it's captivating many people. The texture is as satisfying as reaching a scenic viewpoint after a challenging hike.
Yuzu ponzu comes topped with green onions and grated daikon (white radish), while mayo tako is topped with mayonnaise and green onions. Why not order all three and compare the tastes? It's like exploring different trails in a Kyoto park, each offering a unique experience.
The shop is open until 23:00 on Sundays and 24:00 from Tuesday to Saturday, making it perfect for a late-night snack after a day of sightseeing or hiking.
Store Information:
- Address: 2-8-33 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Mondays
- Phone: 06-6213-8806
- Business hours: Tuesday to Friday 17:00-24:00, Saturday 16:00-24:00, Sunday 16:00-23:00
Genroku Sushi Shinsaibashi Store
Source: Tabelog
Genroku Sushi is the shop that started the conveyor belt sushi concept in Japan in 1958. By rotating sushi, which was considered a luxury food, they managed to reduce costs and make it more accessible to the general public. This innovative approach is as refreshing as finding a hidden trail in a Kyoto park.
The menu includes nigiri sushi with tuna and salmon, gunkan maki (battleship roll sushi with ingredients like ikura and sea urchin on top of sushi rice wrapped in nori seaweed), maki sushi with cucumber or plum and shiso, as well as side dishes like french fries and fried chicken. For those who prefer richer flavors, try the seared salmon or eel. If you prefer lighter tastes, the large shrimp or cucumber roll is recommended. The variety is as diverse as the flora you might encounter on a hiking trail.
With all items reasonably priced, why not indulge in your favorite sushi to your heart's content? It's an affordable culinary adventure, much like enjoying the free beauty of nature in a Kyoto park.
Store Information:
- Address: 3-11-1 Minamisemba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone: 06-6241-2151
- Business hours: Monday to Friday 11:15-22:30, Weekends and holidays 11:00-22:30
- Official website: http://www.mawaru-genrokuzusi.co.jp/shop/shinsaibashi/
Karen Osaka Shinsaibashi Store
Source: Tabelog
Karen Osaka Shinsaibashi Store is a place where you can enjoy Kagoshima ingredients, including Kagoshima Wagyu beef (which has been selected as the best Wagyu in Japan in contests), Kagoshima Kurobuta pork, and Kagoshima vegetables. The cooking methods are distinctly Japanese, with options like shabu-shabu, sukiyaki, steamed in a bamboo steamer, or teppanyaki. This variety of choices is as exciting as planning a hiking route through Kyoto's diverse parks.
The popular menu item is shabu-shabu, where you can eat plenty of meat and vegetables. By dipping the meat in hot water, excess fat flows out, making it easier to eat without feeling heavy. It's a refreshing meal, much like the feeling after a good hike. The calorie content is also low, so even women can eat their fill without feeling guilty.
Store Information:
- Address: 2-7-18 Shinsaibashi-suji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone: 050-5597-1519
- Business hours: 11:30-15:00, 17:00-22:30