Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

I just returned from a fantastic trip to Osaka in early December 2011 and found Japan’s second-largest city fascinating. To top it off, visiting Shinsaibashi shopping street made it even more exciting.

Shinsaibashi (心斎橋) is the place to visit if you love shopping. In addition to the fantastic shopping, there are cultural sites, world-class entertainment places, and excellent street food throughout Nanba.

Walking along the main Shinsaibashi Street was a memorable experience, as the covered walkways stretch over four kilometres. The crowds here are always at their peak, with thousands of people at once.

If you were to come here on a public holiday or a weekend, you would most likely get lost in the crowd. Just take a look at the photo below to see what I mean. If you hate crowds, come here in the mornings and on a weekday.

This place is totally surreal and truly a woman’s paradise. Men would be pleased to know that male items are also available here, but you need to watch for them.

Just take a look at that sea of people in Shinsaibashi.

On Shinsaibashi Street, you can generally find quite a wide selection of shops, where the leading stores sell Japanese snacks, souvenirs, and clothing. In between, you will find traditional Japanese restaurants and bakeries, which make a good stop if you need to fill your stomach.

Ladies’ shoes are abundant and follow the seasons, too. If you visit in the winter, expect to see many winter shoes or boots on sale. The same goes for men’s shoes. Sometimes, you will see a cosplay shop selling cute Japanese Kawaii uniforms, wigs and other quirky items.

Who Should Not Go To Shinsaibashi?

I will be honest: Guys are not too interested in shopping; therefore, boyfriends or husbands who hate shopping should not visit here, as they will get frustrated. Some people fear crowded places called Enochlophobia; if you belong to this group, please do not attempt to come here.

How to Go To Shinsaibashi Shopping District?

The easiest and best way is to take the Osaka subway here. Language is not a problem, as the ticket machines have dual language options, including English. Some of the subway and ticket staff speak a little English, too.

The beauty of Osaka is that many of the younger generation of Japanese know how to converse in basic English, making it easy to ask questions. Signage around Shinsaibashi is relatively easy, as all of it is in English; hence, getting lost is less likely here.

Conclusion

If you travel to Osaka with family or kids, please stick together on the weekend in the Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, as it is easy to get separated in the crowds. You can also check out this list of what to do in Osaka if you stay more than three days.

AirAsia flies to Osaka and has daily flights if you are in Malaysia. And, if you plan to visit this place anytime soon, put on a pair of walking shoes and head to the Shinsaibashi and Namba districts.