Hi there!
The Fun! Japan team is mostly centered around Tokyo, but this is definitely not what Japan is all about. While the countryside is beautiful, other cities also hold their charm.
Today I will introduce you to the heart of Osaka, the Shinsaibashi and Dotobori areas!
Shinsaibashi is located in the Chuo district of Osaka and is great destination for shopping of all sorts. Its long shopping arcades will have you lost in no time with an unlimited variety of shops to choose from!
Out of the arcades, you will be able to find plenty of luxury brand shops, such as Chanel or Gucci and the main Osaka Apple store for all tech-lovers!
This is not rush hour, those arcades are almost always this crowded from what we saw!
Head south of Shinsaibashi to discover a special area called Amerika Mura, commonly shortened as Ame-mura by the locals, which is an American-themed shopping area with a lot of apparel shops.
If you’re lost, follow the statue of liberty!
A crossing in Ame-mura, where we got to catch a hippy van! There is a very small park area there, which often is a meeting spot for young people.
Heading north of Shinsaibashi however will lead you over to Dotonbori, a very popular district with a lot of restaurants and izakayas!
This sign is the emblem of the city, lighting it up for more than 70 years.
You will have guessed, Glico’s headquarters are located in Osaka!
We recommend going to Dotonbori at night as well for fully enjoying the atmosphere of Western Japan, where it is commonly said that the people are a lot more social and easy to talk to - so this can be a great opportunity to make some friends!
The bridge in front of the Glico sign is also a popular place to meet. Here is a wrestler waiting for his opponent perhaps?
We strongly recommend you take a few days in Osaka when coming to Japan, as you can visit Kyoto & Nara, which are accessible by train within an hour.
Access Info:
Shinsaibashi is located 10 minutes from the Tennoji station on the Midosuji Line.
Map:
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