Shinsaibashi is one of Osaka’s oldest and most exciting shopping districts, containing a huge range of brand-name stores, independent retailers and fashion boutiques. Explore a roofed arcade that extends nearly 2,000 feet (600 metres) across the city’s downtown district and experience the lively energy of this landmark destination.
Dating back to the Edo period, Shinsaibashi’s history as a shopping area stretches back nearly four centuries. The area has long drawn locals and visitors to its bustling stores and today it has a reputation as being one of Osaka’s most fashion-forward destinations. Make your way down the extensive arcade and check out the brightly illuminated displays. Take in the exciting atmosphere as you join the crowds of shoppers exploring the stores and peruse the collections of clothing, accessories, homewares and souvenirs. You’ll find well-known labels, exclusive brands and up-and-coming fashion boutiques among the stores along this busy strip.
Explore the street’s western area to visit America-mura Village, an area that has been popular with younger shoppers since the 1970s. The western section gained its reputation for importing American-made clothing, records and goods. Today it is still a hotspot for Western-style fashion. Admire its brightly colored murals and the illustrations that adorn the walls of this shopping area.
If you’re feeling in need of a pick-me-up, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants and cafés serving quick snacks and refreshing drinks. Enjoy Osaka street-food specialties, including okonomiyaki pancake or takoyaki octopus balls.
While in the area, be sure to check out the nearby upmarket shopping districts of Horie and Minamisenba. Den Den Town in Nipponbashi has a huge range of electronics and gaming items.
Shinsaibashi is the shopping strip that connects the central Osaka areas of Umeda and Namba, and is bordered by the Dotonbori Canal. The district is free to visit at any time of the day and is an exciting place to shop, dine and people-watch. The Shinsaibashi district is easily accessible via the subway station of the same name.
