If you are visiting Japan and stopover in Osaka, make sure to check out “Shinsekai”, Osaka’s most nostalgic Neighbourhood!
Shinsekai (新世界) translated literally means “New World” and was developed before the war, however, it was neglected when the war ended. And when you look at it closely, you will see some similarities with other places, as it was indeed modeled after two famous cities. With its northern half resembling Paris, and the southern part built to imitate New York’s Coney Island.
Tsutenkaku Tower
When you arrive you will first see Shinsekai’s iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. Constructed in 1912 it is situated in the northern part and you will clearly see where the inspiration for it came from. Of course, it was Paris’ Eiffel Tower.
Although destroyed during WWII, this Landmark was reconstructed in 1956 and now features a beautiful open-air deck on top of the main observatory. With the tower being 103 meters high, it will give you an amazing view of the area. And with an admission fee of 800 yen (plus 500 yen for the open-air deck), it does not break the bank and is certainly well worth it.
Eating in This Area
If you want to go out and have a great time, Shinsekai is (as well as famous Dotonbori) the place to go to. And especially if you are looking for one of Osaka’s top specialties: Kushikatsu!
It feels like all of the Restaurants here are selling these tasty skewers, but if you are not sure which of the many restaurants to choose, I recommend Kushikatsu Daruma, with 4 Restaurants in the area you will be sure to get a seat. However, expect a little wait, as these guys are popular and rightly so.
In case you have not tried “Kushikatsu” yet, they are small vegetables and meat skewers, battered and deep-fried. With the huge variety of vegetables available, unusual for Japan, I would almost call it healthy. However, being deep-fried and then dipped in a smooth and sweet Kushikatsu sauce, it may be closer to a chipper.
Another huge plus, many of Shinsekai’s Kushikatsu Restaurants open 24 hours, so this could be a great last stop or early morning snack in case you are dealing with Jetlag.
What Makes Shinsekai so Special?
Aside from the food and a reputation as a great spot to go out at night, due to its opening hours, its nostalgic feel is really what makes this area so special.
It has this theme-park feel, but without being cheesy. And with every corner you turn, you walk into another world, with giant cranes and colorful fish floating above. It really transports you into another Univers with its vibrant colors and visual, almost like being inside a movie.
Bonus
Moreover, Shinsekai is also home to Spa World. If you feel the need for some pampering, this would be the place for you. This bath complex offers a large number of themed pools, both European (meaning bring your swimsuit) as well as Japanese onsen style. It does feature natural hot spring water, which makes it the perfect place to rest and just let the world be for a few hours…
The entrance fee is 1300yen, which with its big Amusement Pools, stone baths, and other features is extremely good value.
How to Get Here
Shinsekai, Osaka’s most nostalgic Neighbourhood is only a short walk from the Shin-Imamiya Station (JR Loop Line), the Dobutsuen-mae Station (Midosuji and Sakaisuji Subway), and the Ebisucho Station (Sakaisuji Subway). So it is very easily accessible.
My take on Shinsekai
I just love this photogenic neighborhood with its great small restaurants and shops. A fun place to explore and enjoy. Shinsekai is still a place many people don’t know about, so make sure to check it out when you visit Osaka!
