Shinsekai: The Ultimate Guide to Osaka's Vibrant Downtown
Shinsekai is where you can fully experience Osaka's retro popular culture. As a long-time resident of Osaka, I will share its charm with you.
The imposing Tsutenkaku Tower, the lively Jan Jan Yokocho, and the aromatic scent of kushikatsu. Walking through Shinsekai, you'll be enveloped in a unique atmosphere. This neighborhood, once known for its poor safety, has now transformed into a popular spot bustling with tourists.
I remember the first time I visited this neighborhood as a child. I can still recall the excitement of climbing Tsutenkaku with my parents and looking down at the Osaka cityscape.
Now, I often enjoy bar-hopping with friends in Jan Jan Yokocho and looking forward to visiting long-established kushikatsu restaurants.
In this article, I'll introduce you to the charms of Shinsekai from a local's perspective. I'll provide you with a guide to fully enjoy Shinsekai, from tourist spots to gourmet food!
Please see our Osaka Guide for tourist information about the entire Osaka area, including the Shinsekai district.
Table of Contents
・What is Shinsekai? A Neighborhood with Osaka's Retro and Unique Atmosphere
・Main Tourist Spots in Shinsekai
・Recommended Restaurants in Shinsekai
・Spots to Visit Along with Shinsekai
・Recommended Tours in Shinsekai
・Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shinsekai? A Neighborhood with Osaka's Retro and Unique Atmosphere
Shinsekai is a historic downtown area located in Naniwa Ward, Osaka City. It's a charming area with a unique retro atmosphere centered around Tsutenkaku Tower, which stands at its heart.
Originally known as an area with poor safety, Shinsekai has transformed into a popular spot bustling with many tourists due to recent redevelopment.
Here, you can enjoy a unique townscape that retains the atmosphere of old Osaka while incorporating modern elements.
Walking around Tsutenkaku, you'll see retro signs, eateries, and lively streets that catch your eye.
The charm of Shinsekai isn't just its glamour as a tourist spot. I believe the warmth of the local people and the long-cultivated popular culture are the true attractions of this neighborhood.
Access to Shinsekai
Access to Shinsekai is very convenient. You can easily get there from major areas in Osaka city, so I recommend dropping by during your sightseeing.
I often use "Dobutsuen-mae Station" on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line. This station is the most convenient, and you can feel the atmosphere of Shinsekai as soon as you exit the station. The Sakaisuji Line is also fine to use.
If you're using the JR line, "Shin-Imamiya Station" on the JR Osaka Loop Line is convenient.
Main Tourist Spots in Shinsekai
There are many must-see tourist spots in Shinsekai. Here, I'll introduce you to some particularly recommended places.
Tsutenkaku
When you think of Shinsekai, the first thing that comes to mind is Tsutenkaku. This 103-meter-tall landmark of Shinsekai is, for me, a symbol of Osaka.
From the observation deck, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view overlooking the Osaka cityscape. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Kobe.
What's particularly popular in Tsutenkaku is "Billiken-san". This is the official character of Tsutenkaku, considered a god of happiness, and it's said that rubbing the soles of its feet will make your wishes come true.
Website: https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/
Jan Jan Yokocho
Jan Jan Yokocho is one of the most lively places in Shinsekai. It's a retro-atmosphere dining street, and for me, it's one of the places where I can feel Osaka's downtown culture the most.
Walking through this street, you'll smell the aroma of local specialties like kushikatsu, doteyaki, and horumon-yaki.
The charm of Jan Jan Yokocho is also in its bustling atmosphere. Standing bars and casual pubs line up, and the sight of local regulars and tourists enjoying food and drinks shoulder to shoulder is truly Osaka-like.
I sometimes have a drink here with colleagues after work, and every time I do, I realize I'm living in Osaka.
The good thing about Jan Jan Yokocho is also its convenience. It's a compact space where you can enjoy food and drink hopping, so you can fully experience the atmosphere of Osaka even in a short time.
I love visiting alone on a weekend afternoon, slowly going around my favorite shops.
Please take a look at our Jan Jan Yokocho article as well.
Spa World
Source: Wikipedia
Spa World is a large bathing facility themed on "World's Great Hot Springs". For me, it's an indispensable place to conclude a Shinsekai tour.
Here, you can experience traditional hot springs and baths from various countries around the world. It feels like you're on a world tour.
The facilities are very well-equipped, including open-air baths, saunas, and hot stone spas. It's perfect for relaxing your tired body, ideal for relaxation time after walking around Shinsekai.
The charm of Spa World isn't just in its bathing facilities. The building is also well-equipped with dining areas and massage facilities, so you can enjoy it all day long.
Notably, Spa World is open 24 hours a day. This is a very convenient feature for tourists. Even when I've worked late, I could come here to relieve my fatigue.
Also, since it's available from early morning, I recommend enjoying a morning bath before starting your day of sightseeing.
Website: https://www.spaworld.co.jp/english/
Tennoji Zoo
Tennoji Zoo, opened in 1915, is the third oldest zoo in Japan.
This zoo exhibits and breeds over 1,000 animals of more than 200 species. You can meet a wide variety of creatures, from popular large animals like elephants, giraffes, and lions to rare small animals.
The charm of Tennoji Zoo isn't just its historical value. In recent years, they've been focusing on creating a more comfortable environment for the animals, adopting exhibition methods that consider the ecosystem.
Another significant feature of Tennoji Zoo is its pricing. You can enter for the very reasonable price of 500 yen per person, making it easy to drop by.
Website: https://www.tennojizoo.jp/en/
Recommended Restaurants in Shinsekai
Shinsekai is one of the centers of Osaka's food culture. Here, I'll introduce you to my favorite restaurants that I've visited many times during my 10 years of living in Osaka. These are all excellent restaurants where you can fully enjoy the taste of Osaka.
Kushikatsu Daruma
Source: Tabelog by hinata_suukki
"Kushikatsu Daruma" is a representative kushikatsu restaurant in Osaka. Kushikatsu is a famous Osaka dish where vegetables and meat are skewered, battered, and deep-fried.
This restaurant has multiple branches in Shinsekai, but I recommend the main store.
The taste of the main store is exceptional, and many regular customers praise it as "the most delicious". When I guide friends or family to Osaka, I always take them to this store.
The budget is about 2,000-3,000 yen per person, allowing you to enjoy authentic kushikatsu at a reasonable price. Sometimes, I drop by alone after work to relieve the day's fatigue with beer and kushikatsu.
<Store Information>
Address: 2 Chome-3-9 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Closed: None
Phone: 050-5493-3805
Hours: 11:00 AM–10:30 PM
Website: https://k471506.gorp.jp/
Yaekatsu
Source: Tabelog by Yomawarineko
"Yaekatsu" is a long-established kushikatsu restaurant in Jan Jan Yokocho. I first visited this restaurant shortly after moving to Osaka. The shock of its deliciousness is still unforgettable.
The kushikatsu at "Yaekatsu" has a perfect harmony of crispy batter and juicy ingredients. Especially, the onion kushikatsu is exquisite. Its sweetness and texture are wonderful, and I always order it.
The popularity of this restaurant is not only among locals but also growing among tourists. Therefore, there are often lines, especially on weekends.
However, from my experience, the waiting time is well worth it. Enjoying the atmosphere of Jan Jan Yokocho while waiting is also nice.
The price range is around 2,000 yen per person, which is very reasonable. I think it's unique to Shinsekai that you can enjoy such taste and atmosphere at this price.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-4-13 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Closed: Thursdays
Phone: 06-6643-6332
Hours: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/osaka/A2701/A270206/27000443/
Tengu
Source: Tabelog by urya-momen
"Tengu" is a famous kushikatsu restaurant in Jan Jan Yokocho.
The specialty of this restaurant is undoubtedly the "doteyaki" kushikatsu. Doteyaki is an Osaka local dish where beef tendon is stewed in miso, but at "Tengu", they make this into kushikatsu.
"Tengu" is next door to "Yaekatsu", so I recommend enjoying a food crawl. When I guide friends, I sometimes order a little from both stores and enjoy the difference in taste. It's a very enjoyable experience to feel the individuality of each store.
The budget is about 2,000 yen per person, which is very reasonable.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-4-12 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 06-6641-3577
Hours: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/osaka/A2701/A270206/27000442/
Grill Bon
Source: Tabelog by Kurotamagon
"Grill Bon" is a long-established restaurant with a 70-year history.
The specialty of this restaurant is undoubtedly the Beef Fillet Cutlet Sandwich. This sandwich, with a thick fillet cutlet sandwiched between crispy toasted bread, is exquisite.
The softness of the cutlet and the crispiness of the bread harmonize perfectly, and you'll feel happy the moment you take a bite.
I especially recommend this restaurant to those who want to taste Osaka's unique food other than kushikatsu in Shinsekai. The Beef Fillet Cutlet Sandwich is a bit pricey at 2,200 yen, but it's well worth it.
<Store Information>
Address: 1 Chome-17-17 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Closed: None
Phone: 06-6632-3765
Hours: 12:00 PM–2:00 PM, 5:00 PM–7:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/osaka/A2701/A270206/27001105/
Taikousushi Main Shop
Source: Tabelog by Taikousushi Main Shop
Taikousushi Main Shop is a casual sushi restaurant in Shinsekai.
The main feature of this restaurant is that each plate comes with 3 pieces of sushi. Nowadays, 2 pieces per plate is common all over Japan, but in fact, "3 pieces per plate" used to be popular in Osaka.
However, even in Osaka, most restaurants now serve 2 pieces. In this context, Taikousushi continues to maintain the traditional 3-piece style.
The charm of this restaurant is also in its price. The budget is about 2,000-3,000 yen per person, which is quite reasonable compared to high-end sushi restaurants. However, you can enjoy taste and quantity beyond what you might imagine from this price.
When visiting Shinsekai, I recommend trying not only kushikatsu but also authentic Osaka sushi at Taikousushi Main Shop.
<Store Information>
Address: 3 Chome-2-18 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002
Closed: Thursday
Phone: 06-6641-4278
Hours: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Website: https://daikosushi.jp/access/daikosushi-honten/
Osaka has many dishes that could be called 'soul food', so please be sure to check out our Osaka Food Guide article.
Spots to Visit Along with Shinsekai
After fully enjoying the charms of Shinsekai, why not visit the surrounding spots? I'll introduce you to some places that have become my favorites during my 10 years of living in Osaka.
Abeno Harukas
Abeno Harukas is the second tallest skyscraper in Japan. It's within a 15-20 minute walk from Shinsekai, and I often visit it as a finale to my Shinsekai tour.
The biggest attraction of this building is the spectacular view from the observation deck "Harukas 300". The view of Osaka city from 300 meters above ground is breathtaking, and on a clear day, you can see as far as Kyoto and Kobe.
Abeno Harukas is not just an observation deck. It's a complex facility that includes a luxury hotel, offices, and a department store.
Especially, the department store is the largest in the Kansai region, making it ideal for shopping and gourmet experiences. I often enjoy shopping here with friends on weekends.
Also, the "Abeno Harukas Art Museum" always holds interesting special exhibitions. As an art lover, I visit every time there's a new exhibition. You can enjoy a wide range of genres from contemporary art to classics.
Website: https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/en/
Shitennoji Temple
Shitennoji Temple is a historic temple founded by Prince Shotoku in 593. It's about a 20-minute walk from Shinsekai, and I often stop by after touring Shinsekai.
The biggest attraction of this temple is the group of buildings with over 1400 years of history. Especially the five-story pagoda is breathtakingly beautiful, and I'm always captivated by its grandeur no matter how many times I see it.
The garden of Shitennoji is also attractive. In this Japanese garden, you can enjoy the beauty of the four seasons.
Regular Buddhist services and festivals are held at this temple, and if you're lucky, you might be able to observe traditional ceremonies.
Website: http://www.shitennoji.or.jp/
Tennoji Park
Tennoji Park is one of the largest green spaces in Osaka city, just a short walk from Shinsekai. Especially the recently renovated station-front area "Tennoji Park" has become popular as a new tourist spot.
"Tennoji Park" is an open space centered on a lush grass plaza, dotted with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Also, Tennoji Zoo is located within the park, which is very popular among families. I sometimes visit the zoo for a change of pace.
People who want to enjoy nature, those who want to enjoy shopping and cafes, and those who want to meet animals can all spend time according to their preferences. I like to take a break here after touring Shinsekai.
Also, it's right next to Abeno Harukas, so I recommend combining it with a Harukas tour.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is Osaka's representative downtown area, famous as the "City of Kuidaore" (eat until you drop). It's about a 15-minute subway ride on the Midosuji Line from Shinsekai, getting off at "Namba Station".
The biggest charm of Dotonbori is its vibrant atmosphere. The flashy townscape with huge signboards and electric decorations is truly "Osaka" itself.
Particularly famous are the Glico sign and the giant crab object of "Kani Doraku". I still vividly remember being overwhelmed by its flashiness when I first visited this street.
Cruising on the Dotonbori River is also popular. The view of Dotonbori from the river has a different charm from that on land.
Dotonbori is a place where you can experience the vitality of Osaka in a different way from Shinsekai, so please make sure to visit.
Discover more about Dotonbori, an area that captures the true spirit of Osaka, in our locally-written Dotonbori Guide.
Recommended Tours in Shinsekai
When visiting Shinsekai, I recommend participating in a guided tour. Here, I'll introduce two particularly recommended tours.
Please check out our Osaka Food Tour feature article as well.
"Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai" by Magical Trip
On this Magical Trip tour, you can fully enjoy Dotonbori and Shinsekai, which are representative gourmet spots in Osaka.
During the 3-hour tour, you can enjoy famous dishes such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. The guide carefully explains how to eat each dish at each store, so even those visiting Osaka for the first time can feel at ease.
I especially recommend this tour for those visiting Osaka for the first time or those who want to experience the charm of Osaka efficiently in a short time.
Click here for more details: Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
"Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour" by Arigato Travel
Source: Arigato Travel
This is a 3-hour tour where you can enjoy food in Shinsekai at night.
Shinsekai at night has a different atmosphere from daytime, and the townscape adorned with neon lights is truly beautiful. Especially, the illuminated Tsutenkaku is spectacular.
However, some areas are not very safe at night, so using this tour with a local guide is very reassuring.
If you plan to visit Tsutenkaku or Shinsekai at night, consider this tour. With a local guide accompanying you, you can safely and deeply enjoy the charm of Shinsekai at night.
Click here for more details: Osaka Shinsekai Street Food Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on my 10 years of living in Osaka, I'll answer questions that are often asked by people visiting Shinsekai.
Is it true that Shinsekai has poor safety?
I hear this question from many people visiting Shinsekai. To conclude, safety has greatly improved compared to the past.
When I moved to Osaka 10 years ago, Shinsekai indeed didn't have a good reputation for safety. However, the situation has changed dramatically over these 10 years. It has been developed as a tourist area and is now a popular spot bustling with many tourists.
Especially during the day, you can see many families and foreign tourists, creating a very lively atmosphere. I also walk around alone during the day without any worry.
Regarding nighttime, it might feel a bit less safe compared to other tourist areas. However, this can be said for downtown areas in Osaka in general, not just Shinsekai.
In my experience, if you take normal precautions like avoiding walking alone at night and being careful with your valuables, it's sufficiently safe.
In fact, I sometimes have a drink in Shinsekai on my way home from work, and I've never felt any problems. Rather, I often have opportunities to experience the warmth of the local people.
Can families with children enjoy it?
Families with children can definitely enjoy it. I often visit Shinsekai with friends' families who have children, and we always create fun memories.
First, the observation deck of Tsutenkaku is very popular among children. The view from 103 meters high makes children's eyes sparkle. My friend's child always begs, "I want to go up again!" every time.
Also, rubbing the feet of "Billiken-san" inside Tsutenkaku can be a fun experience for children.
The adjacent Tennoji Zoo is also the best spot for families to enjoy. Meeting about 200 species of animals will surely be a valuable experience for children.
Kushikatsu, the specialty of Shinsekai, is also easy for children to eat. Many shops offer kushikatsu with ingredients that children might like, such as vegetables and cheese.
In my experience, kushikatsu is very popular among children, and they often ask for "one more!"
Also, the lively atmosphere of Shinsekai itself can be a fun experience for children. The colorful signboards and bustling streets stimulate children's curiosity. The children I've guide d always seemed excited just walking through the streets.
However, please be sure to hold your child's hand tightly during crowded times for safety. Also, it's better to finish sightseeing by evening rather than staying late into the night.
Overall, Shinsekai is a place that can be fully enjoyed by families with children. If you combine attractions like Tsutenkaku, the zoo, and food tasting according to the age and interests of your children, you should be able to create wonderful memories for the whole family.
How long does it take to tour Shinsekai?
The time it takes to tour Shinsekai depends on how deeply you want to enjoy it. Based on my experience, I'll introduce a few patterns.
First, for a half-day course, you can visit the main spots in about 3-4 hours.
This is the standard course I often use when guiding friends. For example, climbing Tsutenkaku to get a panoramic view of Osaka, then enjoying kushikatsu in Jan Jan Yokocho, and finally strolling around Shinsekai.
If you spend a whole day, you can experience the charms of Shinsekai more deeply. For instance, visiting Tennoji Zoo in the morning, enjoying kushikatsu in Shinsekai for lunch, climbing Tsutenkaku in the afternoon to overlook the city, then enjoying food hopping in Jan Jan Yokocho.
Then, relaxing at Spa World in the evening to soothe your fatigue. This is the kind of course I often plan. This way, you can enjoy various aspects of Shinsekai.
On the other hand, if you don't have much time, it's possible to get a taste of Shinsekai's atmosphere in about 2 hours.
For example, climbing Tsutenkaku to view the Osaka cityscape, then enjoying the taste of the famous kushikatsu at a nearby shop. Even this much allows you to touch on the charm of Shinsekai. I sometimes enjoy Shinsekai in this short way when stopping by on my way home from work.
If you want to fully enjoy Shinsekai in a short time, I recommend using Magical Trip's tour.
Shinsekai is a special place where the charm of Osaka is condensed.
The view from Tsutenkaku, the bustle of Jan Jan Yokocho, the aromatic scent of kushikatsu. These experiences make you feel the very soul of Osaka.
Also, by combining it with various tourist spots in the neighborhood such as Tennoji Zoo, Abeno Harukas, and Shitennoji Temple, you can enjoy a more fulfilling Osaka tour.
After reading this guide, please visit Shinsekai where you can experience "Osaka" to the fullest!