Shinsekai (新世界) is a colorful bustling district in the heart of Osaka City. It is located at 2 Chome-5-1 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka City in Osaka Prefecture, Japan.
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| Shinsekai |
Shinsekai details
The kanji used in the name Shinsekai - 新世界, literally translates to "New World" in Japanese. It is an old neighborhood nestled alongside south Osaka City's bustling Minami district. Established in 1912, its layout was inspired by New York's Coney Island in the south and Paris in the north. One of its main attractions was Luna Park, an amusement park that operated until 1923. Dominating the area is Tsutenkaku, often referred to as the "tower reaching heaven."
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| Shinsekai - Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture |
Since minimal redevelopment post-World War II, Shinsekai has evolved into one of Japan's less affluent areas. Despite its reputation as Osaka's most dangerous neighborhood, Shinsekai has a rich history and distinct character. Initially a thriving tourist spot at the turn of the 20th century, it later became a hub for entertaining laborers rebuilding Osaka after the war. The neighborhood's rough image stems largely from criminal activity prevalent until the 1990s.
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| Shinsekai arch 1 |
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| Shinsekai arch 2 |
Despite the negative image, the district now offers a variety of legitimate businesses. You'll find affordable eateries, budget clothing shops, cinemas, shogi and mahjong clubs, and pachinko parlors.
Photos around Shinsekai
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| There are some exotic delicacies being sold here like this soft-shelled turtle |
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| Kura Sushi Shinsekai |
One of Shinsekai's culinary highlights is kushi-katsu, a local specialty featuring skewered and deep-fried meats, fish, and vegetables, typically costing around ¥150 per skewer. While there are fugu (blowfish) restaurants here, kushi-katsu dominates the dining scene.
More photos around Shinsekai
Located west of Tennoji Zoo, Tennoji Park, and the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art, Shinsekai is bordered to the south by Spa World and the now-closed Festival Gate, an amusement park designed to revitalize Osaka's once-neglected area. Despite efforts, Festival Gate closed in February 2004 after financial troubles, leaving only a crepe shop adjacent to Spa World.
Tsutenkaku
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| Tsutenkaku |
Tsutenkaku, a focal point of Shinsekai, offers panoramic views of Osaka. Originally built in 1912 and modeled after the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, the tower was rebuilt in 1956 and stands 103 meters tall, designed by Tachū Naitō, renowned for Tokyo Tower's design. At present, Shinsekai is one of the most visited districts of Osaka City thanks to its lively atmosphere and unique sights.
Team Nicerio visits Shinsekai
My daughter and I visited Shinsekai during our Father and Daughter Backpacking Trip around Osaka last January 5, 2023, which was my 430th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Although our main destination was Tsutenkaku, we still spent time checking out the sights of Shinsekai.
However, we didn’t visit each nook and cranny of this popular district as we were pressed for time. Regardless, I look forward to visiting this place again in the future as I want to try out the very affordable dishes in its cheap cafeteria-like restaurants.
Shinsekai Admission Fee
It’s FREE to enter and explore the district of Shinsekai. However, bring money as there are a lot of things to do and try in Shinsekai.
Shinsekai Operating Hours
Shinsekai is open 24/7. However, each restaurant and shop here has its own operating hours so please check ahead if you are visiting a particular shop or restaurant.
Why visit Shinsekai?
Shinsekai in Osaka is a historic neighborhood established in 1912, blending Western and Japanese influences. Known for its affordable kushi-katsu restaurants and unique local culture with games like shogi and mahjong, it also features the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower offering panoramic views of Osaka. Despite its past reputation, Shinsekai is now a vibrant area near major attractions like Tennoji Zoo and Tennoji Park, attracting visitors with its nostalgic charm and culinary delights.
Getting to Shinsekai
From Osaka Station, ride the Kishuji-Rapid Wakayama bound train of the Osaka Loop Line. Once there, board down at Shin-Imamiya Station.
Walk for about 700 meters going to Shinsekai.
Travel time: 22 minutes
Fare: 190 yen
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