Shinsekai: Best Things to Do

Naho_B_M
Update: Nov 29, 2024

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One of the must-visit places in Osaka is its old downtown district called Shinsekai (which literally means “new world”). Although Osaka is the capital of western Japan, it still retains some nostalgic parts and it could be the best place to see the real side of the city. Step back from the mainstream of Osaka city and let’s explore the “new world”!

Shinsekai (新世界) is located in Naniwa area in the heart of Osaka city next to the most touristic area called Minami. The district was created in 1912 as a new tourist attraction with a concept of Paris and New York. In spite of their expectation for the neighbourhood to be a huge success, by 1930 Shinsekai has experienced massive corruption due to economic reasons. In addition, the district was heavily damaged by the Bombing of Osaka during World War II. As a result, the district became one of the poorest areas of the city and was haunted by the negative image.

Despite the sorrowful past, the city started getting people’s attention in the 90s. As its nostalgic atmosphere was totally new and unique to the especially the young generation, Shinsekai slowly got back its mojo as “The old remaining district”.

So why is Shinsekai so special to us now? Let’s find out!

See the Sights from Tsutenkaku Tower

Panoramic views of Osaka from Tsutenkaku Tower

Panoramic night views of Osaka from Tsutenkaku Tower

Osaka’s symbolic tower, Tsutenkaku (通天閣) is located in the heart of Shinsekai. Originally the tower was built in 1912 and modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, yet it was hugely destroyed during the war and rebuilt in 1956. The 103 m tower has an observation deck at 94.5 m which offers amazing panoramic views of Osaka city. The tower is also a popular landmark to photograph, especially at night when it’s illuminated by LED lights. The LED lights of Tsutankaku Tower change monthly, representing the seasonal color every month. (after sunset till 23:00)

Map

Access

5-min walk from Ebisucho Station (Tram or Metro) or 7-min walk from Doubutsuen-Mae Station

Business Hours

Observatory 10:00 – 20:00 (last admission at 19:30)

Shops 10:00 – 19:30

Price

1000 yen Adults (15 years and over) / 500 yen Children (ages 5-14)

Pay your Respects to Billiken

Billiken is a charm doll that has been placed in the observation deck of Tsutenkaku Tower since it was built. It’s believed that if you touch Billiken’s feet, you will be blessed. So the doll has been considered the god of Shinsekai and beloved for many decades.

Enjoy the Dazzling Neon Lights

The iconic view of the Shinsekai area is created by the nostalgic atmosphere with the colorful flashy signboards and displays of the local shops and restaurants. Especially, the glaring neon lights with the illuminated Tsutsnkaku Tower at night are popular objects to photograph among Instagrammers/photographers.

Eat Kushikatsu to your Heart’s Content

Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat, seafood, and vegetables) is one of the most popular Osaka foods, especially famous in the Shinsekai area. There are many Kushikatsu restaurants (more like pubs) in Shinsekai, where you can place an order from 1 stick and it costs around $1~2 per stick. You see many locals enjoying the dish with a mug of beer even during the day.

Walk Around Jan Jan Yokocho

Jan Jan Yokocho (ジャンジャン横丁) is a 180 meters-long arcade through the district. The narrow arcade is lined up with retro shops, restaurants, and cafes where you can see the real local life of the city. Many Kushikatsu restaurants are located in this arcade, too.