Shinsekai — Attraction in Osaka

Shinsekai (新世界, aka. "New World") is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Osaka. Tsutenkaku Tower, the focal point of Shinsekai, stands proudly at the centre overlooking the vibrant and busy street day and night.

Little that I know, the Tsutenkaku Tower was constructed in 1912 after Paris' Eiffel Tower. Now the current tower is 103 meters high and the observatory deck is at 91 meters. Apart from the main observatory deck, an open air glass bottom deck above the main deck and a 60 meter long slide at the bottom of the tower are built to add more attractions and excitements to the visitors.

Shinsekai is also famous for its kushikatsu (battered and deep fried food and veg skewers). You just cannot miss kishinatsu restaurants on the street. Why? You will see either long lineups outside the restaurant or follow the fried food smell that burst out from the restaurants along the street.

The Main Street of Shinsekai are lined up with plentiful eateries and bars and game halls frequented by constant streams of tourists and locals alike. You just keep on walking, eating and drinking till you faint in Shinsekai. 😂😂

The colorful and bold design of the restaurants and stores are the most well known characteristic views in Shinsekai and Dontonbori as well. You just could not take your eyes off these vibrantly colorful and funny signs or figurines especially the cute icon Billiken - the unofficial mascot of and most beloved character in Osaka. The Billiken figurine is said to bring good fortune to its purchaser, and better fortune if received as a gift. You can buy a bag of cute Billiken sponge cakes from one of the stores as souvenirs and send them as a good luck wish to your friends back home. Anyway those sponge cakes are just too cute to be eaten. Billiken figurines can be found either in front of or on top of every single shop in Shinsekai. I have tried to capture all the Billiken figurines photos on the street, however there are just too many to capture them all with my camera lens. Maybe try again next time.

One tip : Almost everyone will stop by and touch the feet of a big golden Billiken located in the middle of the Main Street of Shinsekai. I touched its feet too and hope that Billiken will give me blessing for getting some good wealth.

Anyway we did not try the famous kushikatsu cause we had a lunch reservation somewhere else. And I was disappointed that I could not squeeze any time to make a second visit to Shinsekai at night time. Dang, another excuse for...

If you're seeking a unique slice of Osaka's history and culture, Shinsekai is a must-visit. Established in 1912, this nostalgic district offers a blend of retro charm and modern vibrancy. The area is best experienced in the evening when the neon lights illuminate the streets, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.

At the heart of Shinsekai stands the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower and offering panoramic views of the city. The tower is beautifully lit at night, adding to the district's allure. Visitors can enjoy the view from the observation deck or explore the surrounding area, which is rich in history and character.

Shinsekai is renowned for its culinary offerings, particularly kushikatsu—skewered and deep-fried delights. Numerous eateries line the streets, serving this local specialty. While some visitors have reported mixed experiences with food quality and service, many have found the area to be a haven for food enthusiasts.

Beyond food, the district offers various entertainment options, including retro arcades, pachinko parlors, and traditional shops. The area retains a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of mid-20th-century Japan, making it a fascinating place to explore.

However, some visitors have noted that the area can feel a bit rundown, and experiences may vary depending on the time of day and specific establishments. It's advisable to visit in the evening when the area is more vibrant and many businesses are open.

In summary, Shinsekai offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you're a foodie, history enthusiast, or simply looking to experience a different side of Osaka, this district provides an authentic and...

The kushikatsu is not good as I thought and very pricey. Just pass by and not think of coming back. Shinsekai (新世界, lit. New World) is an old neighbourhood located next to south Osaka City's downtown "Minami" area. The neighbourhood was created in 1912 with New York (specifically, Coney Island) as a model for its southern half and Paris for its northern half. At this location, a Luna Park amusement park operated from 1912 until it closed in 1923.The centrepiece of the neighbourhood was Tsutenkaku Tower (the "tower reaching to heaven"). Shinsekai has several fugu (blowfish) restaurants, but the neighbourhood's real culinary forte is kushi-katsu. The neighbourhood abounds with kushi-katsu restaurants offering various kinds of meat, fish, and vegetables all breaded and deep fried on small sticks for around ¥150 each.

Shinsekai lies west of Tennoji Zoo, Tennoji Park, and the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art. To the south is Spa World and the now-closed Festival Gate, a compact amusement park built to rejuvenate Osaka's most run-down area. Instead of trying to blend the park into Shinsekai, its construction resulted in virtually barricading it from the surrounding neighbourhood. It remained open for nearly seven years but in February 2004 a joint-venture behind the operation went into bankruptcy, effectively shutting down the complex for the most part. As an amusement space, it was no match for nearby Universal Studios Japan, which opened in 2002. In early 2008, the city began calling for tenders from prospective buyers although, by this point, a crepe shop adjoining Spa World was the only business still operating in the...