Guidebook for 大阪市都島区
Entertainment & Activities
Modeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Top billing goes to the new, ¥45 billion (!) Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a painstakingly recreated Hogsmeade Village (shop for magic wands, Gryffindor capes and butterbeer) plus the 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' thrill ride through Hogwart's School. Wizarding World admission is by timed ticket. Other popular rides include Spider-Man . Leaflet maps and signage are in English, though narrations and entertainment are in Japanese. Long queues are common at the park's major venues (90 minutes is not unusual on the Harry Potter ride).
4440 現地メンバーのおすすめ
ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパン
SakurajimaModeled after sister parks in the USA, 'USJ' bursts with Hollywood movie-related rides, shows, shops and restaurants. Top billing goes to the new, ¥45 billion (!) Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a painstakingly recreated Hogsmeade Village (shop for magic wands, Gryffindor capes and butterbeer) plus the 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' thrill ride through Hogwart's School. Wizarding World admission is by timed ticket. Other popular rides include Spider-Man . Leaflet maps and signage are in English, though narrations and entertainment are in Japanese. Long queues are common at the park's major venues (90 minutes is not unusual on the Harry Potter ride).
Among the biggest in the world, this 112m-high Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of Osaka Bay and the seemingly endless Osaka/Kōbe conurbation. Give it a whirl at night to enjoy the vast carpet of lights.
629 現地メンバーのおすすめ
天保山大観覧車
1-chōme-1-10 KaigandōriAmong the biggest in the world, this 112m-high Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of Osaka Bay and the seemingly endless Osaka/Kōbe conurbation. Give it a whirl at night to enjoy the vast carpet of lights.
Shopping
阿部野橋ターミナルビル
1-chōme-1-43 AbenosujiA great starting point for fun, nontraditional, pop- and street-inspired mementos of your time in Japan. Village Vanguard bills itself as an 'exciting' bookstore, but there's much more to the story: between the cluttered book and magazine racks are offbeat gifts, from animal-shaped coat hooks to design-led T-shirts, mobile-phone cases, kitchen devices, hip-hop hats, shoulder bags, homewares and more.
130 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Village Vanguard America Mura
1-chōme-10-28 NishishinsaibashiA great starting point for fun, nontraditional, pop- and street-inspired mementos of your time in Japan. Village Vanguard bills itself as an 'exciting' bookstore, but there's much more to the story: between the cluttered book and magazine racks are offbeat gifts, from animal-shaped coat hooks to design-led T-shirts, mobile-phone cases, kitchen devices, hip-hop hats, shoulder bags, homewares and more.
Nominally a DIY and houseware chain, Tokyu Hands is Japan's favourite place to browse for items you probably didn't need but will end up loving. It's stacked floor upon floor with everything from obscure tools to design-forward lighting, clocks, curios and craft supplies, just for starters. There's a smaller branch in Umeda .
406 現地メンバーのおすすめ
東急ハンズ Tokyu Hands
1-chōme-8-3 ShinsaibashisujiNominally a DIY and houseware chain, Tokyu Hands is Japan's favourite place to browse for items you probably didn't need but will end up loving. It's stacked floor upon floor with everything from obscure tools to design-forward lighting, clocks, curios and craft supplies, just for starters. There's a smaller branch in Umeda .
This large bookshop has a great selection of foreign- and Japanese-language books. It's inside the Dōjima Avanza Building, about 10 minutes' walk from Osaka Station. Most English-language books are on the 3rd floor along with a cafe. English travel guides are on the 2nd floor.
70 現地メンバーのおすすめ
JUNKUDO Osaka
1-chōme-6-20 DōjimaThis large bookshop has a great selection of foreign- and Japanese-language books. It's inside the Dōjima Avanza Building, about 10 minutes' walk from Osaka Station. Most English-language books are on the 3rd floor along with a cafe. English travel guides are on the 2nd floor.
This new behemoth bookshop, the largest in Osaka, is the result of two book specialists joining forces. There's a big range of English-language books on the 6th floor, with travel guides on the 3rd floor. It's in the new Andō Tadao–designed Chaska Chayamachi building.
114 現地メンバーのおすすめ
MARUZEN & JUNKUDO Umeda
7-20 ChayamachiThis new behemoth bookshop, the largest in Osaka, is the result of two book specialists joining forces. There's a big range of English-language books on the 6th floor, with travel guides on the 3rd floor. It's in the new Andō Tadao–designed Chaska Chayamachi building.
Six floors of tech, gadgets and gizmos, three floors of fashion and a restaurant floor make this a prime destination east of Osaka Station.
671 現地メンバーのおすすめ
ヨドバシカメラ
1-1 ŌfukachōSix floors of tech, gadgets and gizmos, three floors of fashion and a restaurant floor make this a prime destination east of Osaka Station.
At 16,000 sq m over six storeys, this is Japan's largest men's fashion retailer. Two upper floors house cinemas and restaurants.
125 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Hankyu Men's Osaka
7-10 KakudachōAt 16,000 sq m over six storeys, this is Japan's largest men's fashion retailer. Two upper floors house cinemas and restaurants.
At 15 storeys above ground and two below, this massive department store anchors Osaka Station's southern side
319 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Daimaru Museum Umeda
3-chōme-1-1 UmedaAt 15 storeys above ground and two below, this massive department store anchors Osaka Station's southern side
Anchor of the namesake train line, this 13-storey department store also has two excellent food floors below ground.
797 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Hankyu Umeda Honten
8-7 KakudachōAnchor of the namesake train line, this 13-storey department store also has two excellent food floors below ground.
In addition to men's and women's fashions, look for musical instruments and a large Tower Records store.
372 現地メンバーのおすすめ
NU Chayamachi
10-12 ChayamachiIn addition to men's and women's fashions, look for musical instruments and a large Tower Records store.
Youth-oriented, fashion-forward shopping and entertainment centre, topped with a bright red Ferris wheel.
703 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Hep Five
5-15 KakudachōYouth-oriented, fashion-forward shopping and entertainment centre, topped with a bright red Ferris wheel.
LOFT
3-chōme-1-3 UmedaYou can shopping, fancier and other stuffs.
Arts & Culture
Japan's best venue for the mesmerising art of bunraku , puppet theatre closely associated with Osaka. Performances can last all day, with two multiple-act parts up to 4½ hours each (acts are often unrelated). Too long? Nonreserved, same-day single-act tickets are sold at the venue from 9.45am, priced accordingly. Rent the English-language audio guide (full program/single act ¥700/300) for detailed explanations. Shows sell out quickly.
1339 現地メンバーのおすすめ
国立文楽劇場
1-chōme-12-10 NipponbashiJapan's best venue for the mesmerising art of bunraku , puppet theatre closely associated with Osaka. Performances can last all day, with two multiple-act parts up to 4½ hours each (acts are often unrelated). Too long? Nonreserved, same-day single-act tickets are sold at the venue from 9.45am, priced accordingly. Rent the English-language audio guide (full program/single act ¥700/300) for detailed explanations. Shows sell out quickly.
Reconstruction of Osaka's historic kabuki theatre, now a venue for plays, musicals, concerts and Japanese period dramas.
158 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Shin Kabuki-za
6-chōme-5-13 UehonmachiReconstruction of Osaka's historic kabuki theatre, now a venue for plays, musicals, concerts and Japanese period dramas.
In the park Ryokuchi-kōen, this fine open-air museum features a collection of traditional Japanese country houses, transported here and painstakingly reconstructed. Most striking is the giant gasshō-zukuri (steeply slanting thatch-roofed) farmhouse from Gifu Prefecture, and a thatched-wall farmhouse from Nagano, which looks to be wearing a shaggy coat. The whole place comes alive with fiery red maple leaves during November. Take the Kita-Osaka Kyūko line (an extension north from the Midō-suji subway line, ¥90 surcharge) to Ryokuchi-kōen Station. From the west exit, go straight (past McDonald's), follow the road down to Hattori Ryokuchi Park (服部緑地公園), and walk through the park to the museum
60 現地メンバーのおすすめ
日本民家集落博物館
1 HattoriryokuchiIn the park Ryokuchi-kōen, this fine open-air museum features a collection of traditional Japanese country houses, transported here and painstakingly reconstructed. Most striking is the giant gasshō-zukuri (steeply slanting thatch-roofed) farmhouse from Gifu Prefecture, and a thatched-wall farmhouse from Nagano, which looks to be wearing a shaggy coat. The whole place comes alive with fiery red maple leaves during November. Take the Kita-Osaka Kyūko line (an extension north from the Midō-suji subway line, ¥90 surcharge) to Ryokuchi-kōen Station. From the west exit, go straight (past McDonald's), follow the road down to Hattori Ryokuchi Park (服部緑地公園), and walk through the park to the museum
Located within the expansive Osaka World Expo Park (Banpaku-kōen), this fabulous museum brims with interesting and colourful objects for a whirlwind tour through many of the world's cultures. Exhibits range from Bollywood movie posters to Ainu textiles, Ghanaian barbershop signboards to Bhutanese mandalas and Japanese festival floats, even a Filipino jeepney. Note: there's limited English signage so it's best to get an audio guide. From the station, cross the bridge to the park and follow the signs to the museum. From Kyoto, take the Hankyū line to Minami Ibaraki Station and change to the Osaka Monorail
120 現地メンバーのおすすめ
国立民族学博物館
10-1 SenribanpakukōenLocated within the expansive Osaka World Expo Park (Banpaku-kōen), this fabulous museum brims with interesting and colourful objects for a whirlwind tour through many of the world's cultures. Exhibits range from Bollywood movie posters to Ainu textiles, Ghanaian barbershop signboards to Bhutanese mandalas and Japanese festival floats, even a Filipino jeepney. Note: there's limited English signage so it's best to get an audio guide. From the station, cross the bridge to the park and follow the signs to the museum. From Kyoto, take the Hankyū line to Minami Ibaraki Station and change to the Osaka Monorail
Two subway stops from Umeda, this museum contains a life-sized reproduction of an 1830s Osaka neighbourhood: shophouses, drug stores, an old-style sentō (public bath) and more. Enhancing the Edo Period mood, lighting shifts between day and night, shops sell traditional toys and unique souvenirs, and for ¥200 visitors can rent kimono for photo-opps. Invest ¥100 in the English audio guide, since English signage is limited. The building is right behind as you exit the station. Just outside is lively Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, which claims to be Japan's longest shopping street at 3km. Pick up an English-language guide at the museum or along the route.
518 現地メンバーのおすすめ
大阪市立住まいのミュージアム「大阪くらしの今昔館」
6-chōme-4-20 TenjinbashiTwo subway stops from Umeda, this museum contains a life-sized reproduction of an 1830s Osaka neighbourhood: shophouses, drug stores, an old-style sentō (public bath) and more. Enhancing the Edo Period mood, lighting shifts between day and night, shops sell traditional toys and unique souvenirs, and for ¥200 visitors can rent kimono for photo-opps. Invest ¥100 in the English audio guide, since English signage is limited. The building is right behind as you exit the station. Just outside is lively Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, which claims to be Japan's longest shopping street at 3km. Pick up an English-language guide at the museum or along the route.
From its humble invention in 1958 by Andō Momofuku, (1910-2007, later chair of Nissin Foods), instant rāmen has grown into a global business. Exhibits at this offbeat museum showcase its birthplace, instant noodles from around the world, and a 'tunnel' of Nissin products. For many visitors, the highlight is customising your own package of instant rāmen to take away and eat later (¥300), including decorating the cup. Get the free English-language audio guide (¥2000 yen deposit). Expect long queues at weekends. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station
294 現地メンバーのおすすめ
安藤百福発明記念館 大阪池田
8-25 MasumichōFrom its humble invention in 1958 by Andō Momofuku, (1910-2007, later chair of Nissin Foods), instant rāmen has grown into a global business. Exhibits at this offbeat museum showcase its birthplace, instant noodles from around the world, and a 'tunnel' of Nissin products. For many visitors, the highlight is customising your own package of instant rāmen to take away and eat later (¥300), including decorating the cup. Get the free English-language audio guide (¥2000 yen deposit). Expect long queues at weekends. It's about a 10-minute walk from the station
Built above the ruins of Naniwa Palace (c 650), visible through the basement floor, this museum houses dramatically illuminated recreations of the old city and life-sized figures in the former palace court. There are also interesting early-20th-century displays, and great views of Osaka-jō. English explanations are pretty sparse, so rent an English-language audio guide (¥200). The museum is just southwest of the castle park, in a sail-shaped building adjoining the NHK Broadcast Center.
979 現地メンバーのおすすめ
大阪歴史博物館
4-chōme-1-32 ŌtemaeBuilt above the ruins of Naniwa Palace (c 650), visible through the basement floor, this museum houses dramatically illuminated recreations of the old city and life-sized figures in the former palace court. There are also interesting early-20th-century displays, and great views of Osaka-jō. English explanations are pretty sparse, so rent an English-language audio guide (¥200). The museum is just southwest of the castle park, in a sail-shaped building adjoining the NHK Broadcast Center.
This impressive museum houses regularly changing exhibitions of modern (post-1945) Japanese and international art. Also arresting is its underground construction by architect Cesar Pelli; it's like a submarine with walls over 3m thick with light that filters down through skylights above the lobby. The entrance is marked by a large sculpture of steel tubes above ground, said to resemble a butterfly. It's towards the western end of Naka-no-shima.
701 現地メンバーのおすすめ
The National Museum of Art, Osaka
4-chōme-2-55 NakanoshimaThis impressive museum houses regularly changing exhibitions of modern (post-1945) Japanese and international art. Also arresting is its underground construction by architect Cesar Pelli; it's like a submarine with walls over 3m thick with light that filters down through skylights above the lobby. The entrance is marked by a large sculpture of steel tubes above ground, said to resemble a butterfly. It's towards the western end of Naka-no-shima.
This new museum features temporary shows, including, so far, Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/sights/museums-galleries/abeno-harukas-art-museum#ixzz4AU1VKd4D
155 現地メンバーのおすすめ
あべのハルカス美術館
1-chōme-1-43 AbenosujiThis new museum features temporary shows, including, so far, Renaissance painting to tantric Buddhist artifacts. Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan/kansai/osaka/sights/museums-galleries/abeno-harukas-art-museum#ixzz4AU1VKd4D
Parks & Nature
天王寺動物園
1-108 ChausuyamachōFor fun!
http://www.jazga.or.jp/tennoji/info/osakazoo_international.pdf
On the eastern end of the Naka-no-shima island, this is a good place for an afternoon stroll or picnic lunch
504 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Nakanoshima Rose Garden
Nakanoshima-1-chōme-1 Kita WardOn the eastern end of the Naka-no-shima island, this is a good place for an afternoon stroll or picnic lunch
Sightseeing
This street is connected with Namba shopping avenue. You can enjoy eating and shopping.
1409 現地メンバーのおすすめ
心斎橋筋商店街
2-chōme-2-22 ShinsaibashisujiThis street is connected with Namba shopping avenue. You can enjoy eating and shopping.
Dedicated to Shintō deities of the sea and sea travel, this graceful shrine was founded in the early 3rd century and is considered the headquarters for all Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan. The buildings are faithful replicas of the ancient originals, with a couple that date back to 1810, and grounds are crisscrossed by a tree- and lantern-lined waterway spanned by a bright orange drum bridge. It's a rare Shintō shrine that predates the influence of Chinese Buddhist architectural styles.
348 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Sumiyoshi Taisha, Kisshōden
Sumiyoshi-2-chōme-9 Sumiyoshi WardDedicated to Shintō deities of the sea and sea travel, this graceful shrine was founded in the early 3rd century and is considered the headquarters for all Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan. The buildings are faithful replicas of the ancient originals, with a couple that date back to 1810, and grounds are crisscrossed by a tree- and lantern-lined waterway spanned by a bright orange drum bridge. It's a rare Shintō shrine that predates the influence of Chinese Buddhist architectural styles.
Founded 593, Shitennō-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, although only the big stone torii (Shintō shrine gate) is original, the oldest of its kind in the country (1294). Shitennō-ji's best visited for the lovely strolling garden, Honbō Teien , just northeast of the main precincts. Otherwise, the grounds are a somewhat desolate expanse of raked gravel, but there's a five-storey pagoda, which (unusually) you can climb up. On the 21st and 22nd of each month is a very good flea market outside the temple, with antiques and secondhand goods, including old kimono.
1112 現地メンバーのおすすめ
四天王寺
1-chōme-1-11-18 ShitennōjiFounded 593, Shitennō-ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, although only the big stone torii (Shintō shrine gate) is original, the oldest of its kind in the country (1294). Shitennō-ji's best visited for the lovely strolling garden, Honbō Teien , just northeast of the main precincts. Otherwise, the grounds are a somewhat desolate expanse of raked gravel, but there's a five-storey pagoda, which (unusually) you can climb up. On the 21st and 22nd of each month is a very good flea market outside the temple, with antiques and secondhand goods, including old kimono.
Just south and parallel to the canal is this pedestrianised street, where dozens of restaurants and theatres vie for attention with the flashiest of signage: giant 3-D crab, puffer fish, dragon and more.
3588 現地メンバーのおすすめ
道頓堀
Dotonbori-9-1 Chome Chuo WardJust south and parallel to the canal is this pedestrianised street, where dozens of restaurants and theatres vie for attention with the flashiest of signage: giant 3-D crab, puffer fish, dragon and more.
Founded in the 10th century, this shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the Shintō god of scholarship. The honden (main hall) and main gate were most recently rebuilt in 1845
155 現地メンバーのおすすめ
大阪天満宮駅
Tenjinbashi-2-chōme-5 Kita WardFounded in the 10th century, this shrine is dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the Shintō god of scholarship. The honden (main hall) and main gate were most recently rebuilt in 1845
Home of the most famous Kuidaore Tarō statue, at the heart of Dōtombori
147 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Nakaza Cuidaore Building
1-chōme-7-21 DōtonboriHome of the most famous Kuidaore Tarō statue, at the heart of Dōtombori
大阪市中央公会堂
Nakanoshima-1-chōme-1 Kita WardBuilt 1911, this Neo-Renaissance building is an important cultural property
Hozenji Yokocho street
2 Chome-7-21 HigashishinsaibashiAtmospheric alley dotted with traditional restaurants and bars
A landmark market in a covered arcade is where the locals shop for fresh fish, meat, vegetables, pickles and more. In addition to fresh and prepared foods, some shops sell bentō and have lunch counters. It's one block east of Sakai-suji, about 10 minutes' walk from central Namba.
2932 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Kuromon Market
Nipponbashi-1-chōme-16 Chuo WardA landmark market in a covered arcade is where the locals shop for fresh fish, meat, vegetables, pickles and more. In addition to fresh and prepared foods, some shops sell bentō and have lunch counters. It's one block east of Sakai-suji, about 10 minutes' walk from central Namba.
The origins of Tōdai-ji lie in a temple called Kinshō-ji which was founded in 728 for the repose of the spirit of Crown Prince Motoi, son of Emperor Shōmu (r. 724-749). In 741 when the Emperor issued his edict ordering the construction of a national system of monasteries (Kinkōmyō-ji) known as the Kokubun-ji, Kinshō-ji was elevated in status. In 743 Emperor Shōmu issued his proclamation for the erection of a Great Buddha Image and when the capital was returned to Heijō (Nara) construction of the colossal image of Vairocana was begun on the grounds of the Kinkōmyō-ji and was completed in 749. Construction of the Great Buddha Hall took place concurrently and the image was dedicated in 752 with
68 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Todaiji
The origins of Tōdai-ji lie in a temple called Kinshō-ji which was founded in 728 for the repose of the spirit of Crown Prince Motoi, son of Emperor Shōmu (r. 724-749). In 741 when the Emperor issued his edict ordering the construction of a national system of monasteries (Kinkōmyō-ji) known as the Kokubun-ji, Kinshō-ji was elevated in status. In 743 Emperor Shōmu issued his proclamation for the erection of a Great Buddha Image and when the capital was returned to Heijō (Nara) construction of the colossal image of Vairocana was begun on the grounds of the Kinkōmyō-ji and was completed in 749. Construction of the Great Buddha Hall took place concurrently and the image was dedicated in 752 with
Kaiyūkan is easily one of the world's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, unreasonably cute Arctic otters, Monterey Bay seals and unearthly jellyfish. Most impressive is the ginormous central tank, housing a whale shark, manta and thousands of other fish and rays. There are good English descriptions, but the audioguide (¥500) gives more detail. Expect lots of families and school groups.
1923 現地メンバーのおすすめ
大阪海遊館
1-chōme-1-10 KaigandōriKaiyūkan is easily one of the world's best aquariums. An 800m-plus walkway winds past displays of sea life from around the Pacific 'ring of fire': Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, unreasonably cute Arctic otters, Monterey Bay seals and unearthly jellyfish. Most impressive is the ginormous central tank, housing a whale shark, manta and thousands of other fish and rays. There are good English descriptions, but the audioguide (¥500) gives more detail. Expect lots of families and school groups.
For eating(there are lots of Kushikatu restaurant) sightseeing
http://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/Guide-pdf/mishiran-guide-english.pdf
2055 現地メンバーのおすすめ
通天閣
1-chōme-18-6 EbisuhigashiFor eating(there are lots of Kushikatu restaurant) sightseeing
http://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/Guide-pdf/mishiran-guide-english.pdf
Osakajo
Osakajo Chuo Wardhttp://www.osakacastle.net/english/
History of Japan
Drinks & Nightlife
Imagine a storeroom crammed with old records, CDs, worn-out knick-knacks and random ornaments. Then imagine a bar in the middle of it. That's kind of what to expect at this tiny, quirky place, where you'll be heartily welcomed by the long-haired owner as he spins folk-rock tunes on the record player and serves drinks and snacks. There's an English sign out front.
109 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Folk Rock Bar "Phoe～be"
Nishishinsaibashi-2-chōme-7 Chuo WardImagine a storeroom crammed with old records, CDs, worn-out knick-knacks and random ornaments. Then imagine a bar in the middle of it. That's kind of what to expect at this tiny, quirky place, where you'll be heartily welcomed by the long-haired owner as he spins folk-rock tunes on the record player and serves drinks and snacks. There's an English sign out front.
In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop spec
86 現地メンバーのおすすめ
CRAFT BEER BASE BUD
1-chōme-3-1 UmedaIn the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop specialises in local and worldwide craft beers. Order and enjoy around the counter, or climb the narrow stairs to a simple white-walled room. From Osaka or Umeda stations' north exits, take the underground passage toward Umeda Sky Building, and turn left.In the shadow of the Umeda Sky Building, this bar/bottle shop spec
This is one of the oldest Irish-style pubs in Japan, and a good place to rub shoulders with expats and Japanese, enjoy free live music, catch sports matches, and, of course, have a pint. It's on the 6th floor of a futuristic building with what looks like a rocket on the front.
117 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Murphys Bar
Shinsaibashisuji-1-chōme-5 Chuo WardThis is one of the oldest Irish-style pubs in Japan, and a good place to rub shoulders with expats and Japanese, enjoy free live music, catch sports matches, and, of course, have a pint. It's on the 6th floor of a futuristic building with what looks like a rocket on the front.
Food Scene
Gyoza no Ohsho
1-chōme-7-10 DoshōmachiKua Aina Sandwich Shop
2-chōme-10-70 NanbanakaHawaiian restaurant.
Yummy!!
Fuguryori Yotaro Nishiten
You can eat Puffer fish.
すしざんまい 道頓堀店
1-chōme-7-21 DōtonboriThis is one of famous sushi restaurants.
Ramen Todai Dotombori
1-chōme-7-1 DōtonboriYou can eat Japanese Nodules called Ramen.
Head downstairs to this spirited, friendly izakaya for standards such as skewered meats, seafood, vegies fresh off the grill and giant pieces of tori no karaage (fried chicken). The best seats are at half-round counters, where your chef will serve you using a loooong paddle. Most dishes are ¥324. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station, to the left of the signage featuring a guy wearing a headband.
96 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Isaribi
1-chōme-5-12 ShibataHead downstairs to this spirited, friendly izakaya for standards such as skewered meats, seafood, vegies fresh off the grill and giant pieces of tori no karaage (fried chicken). The best seats are at half-round counters, where your chef will serve you using a loooong paddle. Most dishes are ¥324. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station, to the left of the signage featuring a guy wearing a headband.
Friendly and trendy, near the western edge of Ame-Mura, Absinthe serves fantastic cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and juices and a rare (for Japan) Mediterranean menu (falafel, hummus and babaganoush, plus pastas and pizzas). It's a tad pricey, but you're paying for quality ingredients, stylish surrounds and laid-back atmosphere; sliding doors create a sidewalk cafe vibe, weather permitting. And, yes, it does serve absinthe.
189 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Cafe ABSINTHE
1-chōme-2-27 KitahorieFriendly and trendy, near the western edge of Ame-Mura, Absinthe serves fantastic cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and juices and a rare (for Japan) Mediterranean menu (falafel, hummus and babaganoush, plus pastas and pizzas). It's a tad pricey, but you're paying for quality ingredients, stylish surrounds and laid-back atmosphere; sliding doors create a sidewalk cafe vibe, weather permitting. And, yes, it does serve absinthe.
There's a cheery bustle inside this hard-working kaiten-sushi restaurant in a prime Dōtombori location. Over 50 seats zigzag around counters where plates rotate, colour-coded by price and thoughtfully labelled in multiple languages. Non-sushi-eaters can get cooked foods including tori no karaage (fried chicken) and fried tuna. English-speaking staff help make sense of it all
163 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Daiki-suisan kaitenzushi Dotombori
There's a cheery bustle inside this hard-working kaiten-sushi restaurant in a prime Dōtombori location. Over 50 seats zigzag around counters where plates rotate, colour-coded by price and thoughtfully labelled in multiple languages. Non-sushi-eaters can get cooked foods including tori no karaage (fried chicken) and fried tuna. English-speaking staff help make sense of it all
On Hōzen-ji Yokochō, the minimalist atmosphere of this graceful shop lets you feast your eyes on kappō-ryōri : a multi-course chef-driven extravaganza artfully presented in gorgeous pottery that might come topped with a colourful leaf or water-misted for just the right sheen. Since peak seasonal ingredients change virtually daily, you may never have the same dish twice here.
113 現地メンバーのおすすめ
正弁丹吾亭
1-chōme-7-12 DōtonboriOn Hōzen-ji Yokochō, the minimalist atmosphere of this graceful shop lets you feast your eyes on kappō-ryōri : a multi-course chef-driven extravaganza artfully presented in gorgeous pottery that might come topped with a colourful leaf or water-misted for just the right sheen. Since peak seasonal ingredients change virtually daily, you may never have the same dish twice here.
Step into an oasis of calm amid Dōtombori's chaos to be welcomed by kimono-clad staff at one of the area's oldest and most revered udon specialists. Try kitsune udon – noodles topped with soup-soaked slices of fried tofu. Look for the traditional exterior, and the willow tree outside
243 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Dotombori Imai honten
1-chōme-7-22 DōtonboriStep into an oasis of calm amid Dōtombori's chaos to be welcomed by kimono-clad staff at one of the area's oldest and most revered udon specialists. Try kitsune udon – noodles topped with soup-soaked slices of fried tofu. Look for the traditional exterior, and the willow tree outside
In this country where seafood is sometimes eaten so fresh it's still moving, Zauo has tables on long 'fishing boats' over tanks where patrons fish for their own dinner. If you're lucky enough to hook something, there's celebratory drumming and your fish is whisked away to be prepared how you like (priced according to the type of fish). Alternatively, try an eight-piece sushi omakase nigiri , or a very tasty shio-yaki (salt-grilled) fish set from the menu. ¥300-per-person table charge. Reserve for a 'boat' table.
340 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Zauo Fishing Restaurant
1-chōme-1-13 NipponbashiIn this country where seafood is sometimes eaten so fresh it's still moving, Zauo has tables on long 'fishing boats' over tanks where patrons fish for their own dinner. If you're lucky enough to hook something, there's celebratory drumming and your fish is whisked away to be prepared how you like (priced according to the type of fish). Alternatively, try an eight-piece sushi omakase nigiri , or a very tasty shio-yaki (salt-grilled) fish set from the menu. ¥300-per-person table charge. Reserve for a 'boat' table.
A popular place to sample Osaka's signature dish. Try the house special Dōtombori yaki, a toothsome treat with pork, beef, squid, shrimp and cheese. Another unique specialty: tonpei-yaki , an omelette wrapped around fried pork. Some tables look out over the Dōtombori canal.
24 現地メンバーのおすすめ
President CHIBO
6-30 SouemonchōA popular place to sample Osaka's signature dish. Try the house special Dōtombori yaki, a toothsome treat with pork, beef, squid, shrimp and cheese. Another unique specialty: tonpei-yaki , an omelette wrapped around fried pork. Some tables look out over the Dōtombori canal.
Two storeys undergroud and three decades old, this shop is cramped and workmanlike, but locals queue for udon noodles made before your eyes. Cold noodles are the specialty; try refreshing namajoyu (with ground daikon radish and sudachi lime; ¥600) or tenzaru (with tempura; ¥1100). Order from the picture menu, and get hand-gesture eating instructions from the owner. Avoid weekdays between noon and 1pm, when the office-worker lunch crowd descends.
135 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Umeda Hagakure
Two storeys undergroud and three decades old, this shop is cramped and workmanlike, but locals queue for udon noodles made before your eyes. Cold noodles are the specialty; try refreshing namajoyu (with ground daikon radish and sudachi lime; ¥600) or tenzaru (with tempura; ¥1100). Order from the picture menu, and get hand-gesture eating instructions from the owner. Avoid weekdays between noon and 1pm, when the office-worker lunch crowd descends.
This popular restaurant in the Ohatsutenjin-dōri arcade serves up that great Osaka favourite, okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), cooked on a griddle before you. There are lots to choose from the picture menu, including veg options, but the tokusen mikkusu yaki (mixed okonomiyaki with fried pork, shrimp and squid; ¥1080) is a classic. Look for red and white signage out front.
150 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Yukari Sonezaki honten
2-chōme-14-13 SonezakiThis popular restaurant in the Ohatsutenjin-dōri arcade serves up that great Osaka favourite, okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), cooked on a griddle before you. There are lots to choose from the picture menu, including veg options, but the tokusen mikkusu yaki (mixed okonomiyaki with fried pork, shrimp and squid; ¥1080) is a classic. Look for red and white signage out front.
At this adorable, all-vegan, mostly organic restaurant, lunch might be Indian curry or brown rice risotto, while dinner gets more Japanese-fusion with dishes like hijiki (sea green) samosas, shiitake mushroom cutlets, and pasta with dried tofu, shiitake , onion, shiso leaves and walnut and garlic sauce. From the cafe menu, try smoothies, coffees and tofu cheesecake
124 現地メンバーのおすすめ
レコッコレ
At this adorable, all-vegan, mostly organic restaurant, lunch might be Indian curry or brown rice risotto, while dinner gets more Japanese-fusion with dishes like hijiki (sea green) samosas, shiitake mushroom cutlets, and pasta with dried tofu, shiitake , onion, shiso leaves and walnut and garlic sauce. From the cafe menu, try smoothies, coffees and tofu cheesecake
The name means 'chicken nobility', but prices at this popular Osaka-based yakitori chain are decidedly for regular folk. Look for the yellow and red sign and the number 280 (the price of all the generously portioned grilled skewers, plus tax), then climb the narrow stairs to the dining room with booths separated by untreated wood slats, and streaming J-pop hits.
104 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Torikizoku America-mura
1-chōme-8-15 NishishinsaibashiThe name means 'chicken nobility', but prices at this popular Osaka-based yakitori chain are decidedly for regular folk. Look for the yellow and red sign and the number 280 (the price of all the generously portioned grilled skewers, plus tax), then climb the narrow stairs to the dining room with booths separated by untreated wood slats, and streaming J-pop hits.
Beneath the massive green dragon, this indoor-outdoor spot offers house-made noodles and a front-row seat to the Dōtombori scene. Purchase a ticket from a machine, sit at a low table on a tatami platform, top your noodle soup with kimchi , garlic or marinated green onion, and slurp away. Don't linger too long, as there always seems to be a queue
125 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Kinryu Ramen Midosuji
1-chōme-7-13 NanbaBeneath the massive green dragon, this indoor-outdoor spot offers house-made noodles and a front-row seat to the Dōtombori scene. Purchase a ticket from a machine, sit at a low table on a tatami platform, top your noodle soup with kimchi , garlic or marinated green onion, and slurp away. Don't linger too long, as there always seems to be a queue
This lively local chain sets the standard for kushikatsu (¥100-250), alongside izakaya faves like sashimi, sushi and grilled dishes. Yokozuna couldn't be easier to find, behind giant placards painted with sumo wrestlers. If this location is full, two others with the same menu are steps away (2-4-11 Ebisu-higashi and 2-5-9 Ebisu-higashi).
124 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Yokozuna Tsutenkaku shop
3-chōme-6-1 EbisuhigashiThis lively local chain sets the standard for kushikatsu (¥100-250), alongside izakaya faves like sashimi, sushi and grilled dishes. Yokozuna couldn't be easier to find, behind giant placards painted with sumo wrestlers. If this location is full, two others with the same menu are steps away (2-4-11 Ebisu-higashi and 2-5-9 Ebisu-higashi).
For a break from Japanese food, stop at this casual, foreigner-friendly joint. Pizza lunch sets are especially good value, but there are also calzones, wraps, bagels, desserts, bubble teas and brunch-time pancakes, plus poutine (a Montreal specialty of fries topped with gravy and more, courtesy of the Canadian owners), and cocktails.
18 現地メンバーのおすすめ
スライシーズ
For a break from Japanese food, stop at this casual, foreigner-friendly joint. Pizza lunch sets are especially good value, but there are also calzones, wraps, bagels, desserts, bubble teas and brunch-time pancakes, plus poutine (a Montreal specialty of fries topped with gravy and more, courtesy of the Canadian owners), and cocktails.
At the main branch of this Osaka institution, a large dining hall serves a wide variety of set-course meals and sushi (à la carte or in sets), offering traditional, quality ingredients at a reasonable price. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station. Look for the logo of the guy wearing a headband
111 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Japanese food GANKO sushi Umeda Honten
At the main branch of this Osaka institution, a large dining hall serves a wide variety of set-course meals and sushi (à la carte or in sets), offering traditional, quality ingredients at a reasonable price. It's on the street along the west side of Hankyū Umeda Station. Look for the logo of the guy wearing a headband
This spacious, funky 'freestyle' izakaya attracts a younger crowd for large serves of cheap yet decent food, cool design and good beats. In addition to standard izakaya fare are some unconventional choices such as camembert-potato mochi (dumplings), Jamaican-style jerk chicken and Indonesian nasi goreng (fried rice).
41 現地メンバーのおすすめ
ゆめ八プレミアム 難波店
This spacious, funky 'freestyle' izakaya attracts a younger crowd for large serves of cheap yet decent food, cool design and good beats. In addition to standard izakaya fare are some unconventional choices such as camembert-potato mochi (dumplings), Jamaican-style jerk chicken and Indonesian nasi goreng (fried rice).
The 70-plus eateries across multiple buildings here are almost overwhelming. To target your browsing, Eki Marché on the southwest side has dozens of small, reasonably priced spots such as Kani Chahan-no-Mise for delectable crab fried rice, and a branch of Kaiten Sushi Ganko does kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).
1234 現地メンバーのおすすめ
大阪駅
3-chōme-1-3 UmedaThe 70-plus eateries across multiple buildings here are almost overwhelming. To target your browsing, Eki Marché on the southwest side has dozens of small, reasonably priced spots such as Kani Chahan-no-Mise for delectable crab fried rice, and a branch of Kaiten Sushi Ganko does kaiten-sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).
新世界
Ebisuhigashi-8-2 Chome Naniwa Ward