A journey through Shinsekai, filled with the atmosphere of classic Osaka
*Some of the photos on this page are from 2018 or earlier.
Times have changed, and so have lifestyles... Amidst the rapidly changing landscape of Osaka, the Shinsekai area still retains a nostalgic, old-fashioned atmosphere. While you can still enjoy familiar games like smartball, which you may have been engrossed in as a child, the area has also seen the addition of popular attractions such as zoos and natural hot springs, perfect for couples and families to relax in, revealing a new side to the area. Nevertheless, Shinsekai's food, such as the kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and doteyaki (beef tendon stew) of Janjan Yokocho, is still going strong! Every day, many people flock to the area just for these flavors. We will uncover the still-unknown charms of Shinsekai, which has now become a hugely popular tourist spot.
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START
Osaka Metro Midosuji Line Dobutsuenmae Station
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5minutes on footTennoji Zoo
The main attraction at Tennoji Zoo is undoubtedly the "African Savannah Zone," home to lions and zebras. It's like being on an African safari. You'll be surprised by the size of the lions when you see them up close through the glass. In addition, the zoo is home to approximately 170 species and 1,000 animals, including Malaysian elephants living in the Elephant Village and penguins and sea lions gracefully swimming in the water at the Penguin Park & Sea Lion Wharf. The zoo also sells original merchandise, so be sure to check out the souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
External SitesView the spotAdults: 800 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 200 yen, Osaka city residents (junior high school age and younger), Osaka city residents (65 years and 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 spot3 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 -
SPAWORLD HOTEL&RESORT
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?
SPAWORLD HOTEL&RESORTAdults (12 years and older): 1,500 yen, Children (under 12 years old): 1,000 yen
*The lowest price is listed. Prices may vary depending on the time of year, so please check beforehand. - 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.
