Some describe Shinsekai as "seedy" or "dubious", but the burst of purple from Tsutenkaku piercing through the warm colours emitted by nearby street stalls is nothing short of spectacular. The area reminded me of Tokyo's Kabukicho, and my stroll through both were nowhere near dangerous. Take a trip up Tsutenkaku for Osaka's night view and treat yourself to some Kushi-katsu!

This place looks dated compared to areas like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi yet still interesing enough. A visit up the tower not only provide panoramic views to the city but an insightful history to the Shinsekai area which was much much more than a just a tower. There are also plenty of shops and eatries around the area. If you are... More

Interesting shops and history, as well as good view of surrounding area.

Slightly older part compared to Shinsaibashi and Dotombori but lots of good and cheaper restaurants if you know where to look. Clothes are sold at a bargain. Sushi go for as low as 150Yen a plate. Oh, there's a zoo here too.

This is the "poorer" side of Osaka but the main attraction is the Tsutenkaku Tower. Although a towering sight, it was just a tower to me...but the locals do place great importance to this tower as one of the landmarks in Osaka. The restaurants around this area are interesting but mainly serve the fried skewered food ranging from meat, seafood... More

fascintating area Lots of restaurants and people Had sukiyaki at an eating house and was so original and amongst the best I have eaten

This area makes you feel like you have gone back in the past! There are numerous alleys filled with arcade centres and loads of old school games to fulfil all your gaming needs! Mix in a few restaurants and you can have a great evening or night out in the small area and even win yourself some money on the... More

Eat the meat on skewers and takoyaki. Yummy! Be careful not to burn your tongue. This area has some pretty garish decor, but that's what makes it worth visiting. The street food is really tasty. Watch out for homeless people and vagrants. This is Japan though, so it's not particularly dangerous.

This district seemed run down and seedy and that made it interesting. It presents a view of Japan I hadn’t seen elsewhere. There is an observation tower that looked domineering by day (like a big prison watchtower) and was lit up in neon at night. The area is located south of the Namba/Dotonbori Street area - head to the Den... More