A journey through Shinsekai, filled with the atmosphere of classic Osaka
*The photos on this page are from before 2018.
Times have changed, and so have lifestyles... Amidst the rapidly changing landscape of Osaka, the Shinsekai area of Osaka still retains a nostalgic atmosphere from the past. While you can still enjoy nostalgic games like the smart ball you were crazy about as a child, the area has also seen a new side to it, with the addition of popular play spots like zoos and natural hot springs where couples and families can relax. However, Shinsekai food, such as kushikatsu and doteyaki at Janjan Yokocho, is still going strong! Many people flock to the area every day to enjoy these flavors. We will uncover the hidden charms of Shinsekai, which has now become an extremely popular tourist spot.
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Osaka Metro Midosuji Line Dobutsuenmae Station
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5minutes on footTennoji Zoo
The highlight of Tennoji Zoo is undoubtedly the African Savannah Zone, where lions and zebras live. It's like being on an African safari. You'll be surprised at the size of the lions you can see up close through the glass. The zoo is also home to around 1,000 animals of 170 species, including Japan's first underwater hippopotamus viewing pool, polar bears that are spectacular as they dive into the water, and kiwis that can only be seen at Tennoji Zoo in Japan. The zoo also sells original merchandise, so why not check out some souvenirs to commemorate the occasion?
External SitesView the spotAdults: 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 200 yen, Osaka City residents (junior high school students and younger), Osaka City residents (65 years of age or older), and those with a disability certificate: Free (proof required)
5minutes on foot -
Tsutenkaku Tower
Tsutenkaku Tower means "a tall building that reaches the heavens." First, take the elevator to the observation deck. Tsutenkaku Tower pamphlet you receive with your admission ticket is incredibly useful. It includes trivia about Tsutenkaku Tower, points of interest in the area, and even a paper craft of Tsutenkaku Tower that you can enjoy even after you get home. Once you've completed the paper craft, it doubles as a piggy bank! Next, take the elevator up to the observation deck, 100 meters above ground! From the observation deck, you can see Mount Ikoma and Mount Rokko in Kobe, and the 360-degree panorama offers a different view of Osaka than you can see from the ground. Also popular is the Tsutenkaku Tower mascot, Billiken, who is said to bring good luck to those who stroke his feet. The gift shop on the second floor has a wide selection of Billiken merchandise and other Osaka-style souvenirs, so be sure to check it out.
View the spotAdults: 800 yen, Junior high school students/Elementary school students/Children (5 years and older): 400 yen
3 minutes On Foot -
Janjan Yokocho
Janjan Yokocho has been the setting for movies and TV dramas, and the famous manga "Jarinko Chie" depicts the townscape. Step inside and you'll find kushikatsu restaurants, a Shinsekai specialty, as well as a retro shogi hall reminiscent of the early Showa era and a smartball shop. The best thing about Janjan Yokocho is, without a doubt, Osaka's specialty, kushikatsu! Countless shops line the arcade stretching approximately 180 meters from north to south. No matter which shop you enter, you'll find a lively atmosphere and be able to enjoy freshly made, piping hot kushikatsu. The bite-sized kushikatsu are so tasty you'll find yourself eating too many. Also, although it varies by store, many are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so be sure to check before you go.
View the spot5minutes on foot -
Gallery Reunion
It was built in 1953 as a Southern European-style coffee shop called Saikai, and was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property along with Tsutenkaku Tower in December 2006. It is no longer open as a coffee shop, and you can only enter the building once a month during a jazz concert.
2minutes on foot -
Shinsekai Inari Shrine
This small Inari shrine is located in a corner of the Shinsekai area. When you pass through the torii gate, you will find a rare roulette-style fortune slip made of a stone monument at the back right. After praying at Inari Shrine, try spinning the fortune slip.
7minutes Walk -
Spa World: The World's Greatest Hot Springs
Well done! After enjoying the Shinsekai area to the fullest, come here to wash away the fatigue of the day. Spa World is a comprehensive entertainment facility with a variety of baths, relaxation salons, a pool, dining, and accommodations, making it a place that can be enjoyed by everyone, from children to adults. After a unique and playful bath, we recommend the massage salon. It's so relaxing that you'll find yourself dozing off... Why not give it a try as a reward for your busy days?
Spa World: The World's Greatest Hot SpringsJunior high school students and above: from 1,300 yen Elementary school students and below: from 1,000 yen
*The lowest price is listed. Please check as it may vary depending on the season. - GOAL!
Additional Information
- Stop-in spots
- There are arcades where you can play smart ball, bringing back memories of the Showa era and making you feel nostalgic.
- Tasting spot
- The mixed juice at Sennariya Coffee Shop, a traditional coffee shop located in Janjan Yokocho, is popular for its rich, thick flavor.
- souvenir
- We recommend Tsuriganeya Honpo's Tsurigane Manju, a fluffy castella cake shaped like a bell filled with a delicately sweet bean paste, and the Meidai Basho, a hearty treat filled with banana paste. It's also interesting to hear the sound of a bell ringing when you enter the store.












