Travelling in Japan offers countless unforgettable moments, but some of the most memorable come from exploring neighbourhoods that still radiate the charm and grit of days gone by. If you’re looking to experience a side of Osaka that’s colourful, eccentric, and packed with personality, Shinsekai should be high on your list. But don’t let its rough-around-the-edges reputation fool you; this nostalgic corner of the city is brimming with unique attractions, mouthwatering food, and a vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
Planning Your Osaka Trip
Whether you’re a first-timer to Japan or you’ve visited before and want to dive deeper into local life, Shinsekai offers a walkable, easy-to-navigate snapshot of Osaka’s working-class spirit, with plenty of surprises around every corner.
As a boutique travel agency, we know how challenging it can be to decide on what to do when there are so many “must-do” things in a fun and busy city such as Osaka.
So, to help you make the most of your time here, we’ve put together this guide to Shinsekai. If it still feels like a lot to think about and organise, you can always book a tour with us and simply enjoy your time while we introduce you to the best places to see and the yummiest snacks to munch on!
What is Shinsekai
Shinsekai, which means “New World” in Japanese, is a retro neighbourhood in southern Osaka. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past while serving up a quirky, one-of-a-kind atmosphere that’s unlike anywhere else in Japan. Originally developed in the early 20th century with design influences from both Paris and New York, Shinsekai was envisioned as a modern utopia—Osaka’s window to the world.
Although the glamour of those early days has faded, that’s exactly what makes Shinsekai so special today. Walking through its neon-lit streets, lined with vintage game arcades, nostalgic eateries, and old-school bars, feels like stepping back in time. It’s a little rough around the edges, but that authenticity is precisely the draw: you’ll see locals enjoying skewers in narrow alleyways, hear the sound of pachinko machines echoing through open doors, and stumble upon colourful storefronts that haven’t changed in decades.
For travellers tired of over-sanitised tourist districts and hungry for a bit of local grit and charm, Shinsekai is an unforgettable stop—a lively, lived-in part of Osaka where the past isn’t hidden, but proudly on display. It’s the perfect neighbourhood to explore slowly, camera in hand, stomach ready for deep-fried treats, and curiosity fully awake.
Tsūtenkaku Tower
Your first stop will be the famous Tsūtenkaku Tower, the district’s most iconic landmark and a must-visit for anyone curious about Osaka’s local culture and eccentric charm.
Originally built in 1912 and later reconstructed after a fire, Tsūtenkaku 通天閣, meaning “Tower Reaching Heaven”, was modelled after the Eiffel Tower and served as a symbol of modernity and progress. Today, it remains a beloved retro symbol of Osaka, complete with colourful neon lights and a nostalgic charm that fits perfectly with the surrounding streets.
A visit to Tsūtenkaku is both a literal and figurative elevation of your Shinsekai experience: take the lift up to the observation decks for 360-degree views over southern Osaka, with sights of the Denden Town electronics district (a.k.a Osaka’s Akihabara), Tennoji Park, and even a distant glimpse of Abeno Harukas—one of the tallest buildings in Japan!
On your way up, you’ll pass through quirky exhibits and displays about the tower’s history, as well as the ever-smiling mascot Billiken, the “God of Things As They Ought to Be,” whose golden statue sits on the observation floor. Visitors are encouraged to rub the soles of his feet and make a wish, a beloved local tradition.
Inside, you’ll also find retro vending machines, gacha (capsule) toys, and even a small souvenir shop stocked with Tsūtenkaku-themed trinkets. Whether you go during the day for a clear view or in the evening to see the city sparkle with lights, the tower captures Osaka’s offbeat spirit perfectly.
For those seeking a more thrilling experience, Tsūtenkaku also offers a few adrenaline-pumping attractions beyond the views. The Tower Slide is a 60-metre-long spiral chute that loops around the tower’s exterior, letting you whizz down in just a few seconds—fun and safe for both adults and older children.
Then there’s the Tower Dive & Walk, an outdoor open-air walkway that encircles part of the upper deck. Secured in a harness, you can feel the wind on your face as you carefully walk along the edge of the tower, high above the city.
For the bravest visitors, the Tower Dive simulates a free-fall experience from approximately 40 meters, blending local humour and thrills in typical Osaka fashion.
Opening hours: 10:00–20:00 (last entry at 19:30); Entry fee: ¥900 for adults, ¥400 for children.
Slide: :¥1,000 adults, ¥500 kids
Dive & Walk: ¥3,000 adults, ¥2,000 kids
Janjan Yokocho Alley
Just a short walk from Tsūtenkaku, you’ll stumble upon one of Shinsekai’s most atmospheric corners: Janjan Yokocho. This narrow alley is packed with old-school charm and feels like a trip back to the early Shōwa era, a time of modernisation and booming nightlife. The name “Janjan” is said to come from the sound of shamisen (a traditional Japanese string instrument) being played in the streets, though nowadays the soundtrack is more likely to be the clatter of chopsticks and cheerful conversations from the eateries that line the lane.
Janjan Yokocho is a haven for kushikatsu, the deep-fried skewers Shinsekai is famous for. You’ll find a line-up of small, family-run restaurants, many of them unchanged for decades, serving crispy, golden skewers of meat, vegetables, and even cheese, alongside cold beer and no-nonsense hospitality.
Places like Kushikatsu Daruma and Yaekatsu are local legends and often have queues outside, but part of the fun here is wandering from one place to the next, ducking into wherever catches your eye, and Kushikatsu Daruma has 4 stores just in the Shinsekai area, so you will definitely get to try Kushikatsu.
It’s also home to a few quirky attractions, like vintage game arcades, nostalgic snack stalls, and friendly locals eager to chat.
Unlike the polished streets of Umeda or Shinsaibashi, Janjan Yokocho has a gritty warmth that’s genuine and inviting. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and where visitors can get a taste of the Osaka of decades past—still alive, still frying, and still welcoming you in for “just one more skewer.”
Isshinji Temple
Shinsekai can be a very bustling area, so your next stop will be Isshinji Temple, a serene and surprisingly unique Buddhist temple that offers a quiet contrast to the lively energy of the area.
While it may appear modest at first glance, Ishinji holds a fascinating distinction: its main statue of Amida Nyorai is made entirely from the ashes of deceased devotees, a practice that began in 1887 to honour those without family graves. This sacred figure is remade every ten years using the ashes collected during that period, creating a powerful symbol of impermanence and spiritual continuity.
The temple grounds are peaceful and open to all, with intricate gates and smaller statues that invite quiet reflection. It’s a moving place to pause, pay your respects, and experience a deeply local side of Osaka’s spiritual life—one that quietly lingers with you even after you’ve moved on to the next bustling street.
Shinsekai Market and Tennoji Park
If you’re in the mood to keep exploring after wandering through Shinsekai’s retro streets, two great nearby options are Tennoji Park and the Shinsekai Market. Just a short stroll away, Tennoji Park offers a peaceful contrast to the energy of Shinsekai, with beautifully maintained gardens, shaded walkways, and wide lawns perfect for a quiet break or a casual picnic. The park is also home to the Osaka Tennoji Zoo and the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, making it a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon with a mix of nature and culture.
For something livelier, the Shinsekai Market provides an atmospheric shopping experience, filled with quirky souvenirs, retro toys, local snacks, and inexpensive street food. It’s a fun spot to pick up unique finds and observe Osaka’s down-to-earth charm in full swing.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet garden stroll or a buzzing local market, both destinations are worth adding to your Shinsekai day out.
Spa World
To finish off your day in Shinsekai, there’s no better way to unwind than with a visit to Spa World (basic ticket for adults ¥1,500, kids ¥1,000), one of Osaka’s most famous bathhouse complexes. Located just beside Tsūtenkaku, this enormous bathhouse offers a luxurious retreat that blends relaxation with a touch of fun. If this is your first time visiting a bath house, then check out our guide to bathing like a local at these relaxing places!
Spread across several themed floors, Spa World features an impressive variety of baths inspired by global cultures; everything from traditional Japanese onsen and outdoor rotenburo to ancient Roman, Greek, and even Persian-style baths, each beautifully designed and surprisingly immersive. There are separate floors for men and women that rotate monthly, so you might be soaking in the Italian marble baths one month and exploring the Finnish sauna the next time you visit.
After enjoying the baths, you can lounge in a yukata (a casual form of kimono), get a massage, or explore the arcade, gym, or family pool area complete with water slides. For tired feet and full stomachs, this is the perfect way to rest, recharge, and reflect on the lively sights, sounds, and flavours of Shinsekai.
Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or solo, Spa World wraps up your adventure with warmth, relaxation, and a little bit of indulgence. It’s also open all night, welcoming even late-night visitors.
Bath Opening Hours: 10:00 AM-8:45 AM of the next day
Pool Opening Hours: 10:00 AM-10:00 PM.
Ticket Price: Adults ¥1,500, kids ¥1,000
Shinsekai FAQ’s
Is it safe to visit Shinsekai at night?
As a very urban area with bars and nightlife, Shinsekai can have a rougher atmosphere during the night than other areas in Osaka, but it is safe to visit, especially if you want to have some drinks at the pub.
How long should I stay at Shinsekai?
It depends on how fast you want to see things, but from half a day to a whole day if you want to take your time seeing shops and playing at the arcades.
What is the best photo spot in Shinsekai?
The main alley of Shinsekai, with Tsūtenkaku at the back. Once night falls and the neon signs light up, this spot makes for a perfect picture.
A Tale of Retro Japan
Shinsekai is a neighbourhood unlike any other—bold, nostalgic, and brimming with character. Spending a day here means stepping into a world where Osaka’s retro past meets its playful present. Whether you’re exploring its hidden alleys, soaking up panoramic views, trying something daring, or simply enjoying the local street food, Shinsekai promises a day that’s just as entertaining as it is memorable. It’s a side of the city that doesn’t try to impress—it simply is what it is. And that’s exactly why it’s worth experiencing. And if you still aren’t sure about if you should visit Shinsekai, come with us and take a closer look!
