Shinsekai in Osaka

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Facts & Figures

The Shinsekai (which means "New World") district in Osaka near Tenno-ji Park did not have the best reputation in the past. This old and poor retro neighborhood stayed untouched for many years and the atmosphere of the 50s and 60s is still alive at this interesting place. At the district's center, you will find the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, a symbol of the better days of Shinsekai. Many cheap restaurants can be found around the tower serving the famous kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers of breaded meat and vegetables with a sweet tonkatsu sauce…oishi. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Osaka Ryokan.
 Find Your Perfect Ryokan Now > Another recommendation for food lovers is a meal in one of the fugu (Blowfish) restaurants, and the most popular is Zuboraya. Only certified chefs are allowed to serve this dish, because of the deadly poison inside the fugu. The best shopping street/arcade there is called Jan-Jan Yokocho. Check out the huge number of stores, souvenir shops, cheap restaurants, bars, and much much more. The mascot of Shinsekai is Billiken. You will see everywhere statues with a smiling face. It is an American invention and brings luck to the people once you rub the feet of this little goblin. Around the area, you will find the largest homeless community in Japan with approx. 4000 people living on the streets. I went there during the daytime, but you should not explore the streets at night. It can get a bit dangerous.

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the highlights and hidden gems of the fascinating metropolis Osaka with a local guide? The personalized tour by our partner GetYourGuide can take between 3 - 4 hours. For more details check out this page >

History

Shinsekai was built in 1912. It was, in the beginning, a very popular entertainment and nightlife district for the hard-working people in Osaka. The role model for this area was Coney Island (district of New York) for the southern part and Paris for the northern part. In the later years, the area became a bit rundown. These days gentrification has also started here like in many cities around the world, which will change the face of Shinsekai.

Sightseeing spots in Shinsekai

Top:

Tsutenkaku Tower - The total height of the tower is 103m and you will find the observatory at 91m. Tsutenkaku was reconstructed in 1956. Read more >

Jan-Jan Yokocho Lane - A 180-meter-long dining and shopping street that is very popular with the locals and tourists. Try out as many retro amusement stalls and arcades and have some fun:) Interesting to know that the word jan jan described the sound of the Japanese banjo, which waitresses played to lure in some customers.

Spa World - You should enjoy this huge hot spring complex a traditional Japanese bath. Guests can choose between outdoor and indoor baths.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

July

Tenjin Matsuri Festival (24th till 25th)
Osaka’s greatest traditional festival (over 1000 years old) is ranked as one of the top 3 festivals in Japan. Enjoy spectacular processions on land and in the water, great fireworks, and a unique atmosphere created by the traditional costumes and music. My must-see recommendation for you.

September

Osaka Thai Festival (5th till 6th)
The Thai Festival in Tennoji Park gives you a great opportunity to explore another culture. Enjoy traditional Thai beer, good food, music, and Muay Thai events.