Osaka, Japan | Exploring Shinsekai

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Our first stop on our Osaka day tour was Shinsekai, which translates to “New World”. Shinsekai is the retro downtown area of Osaka. Located in the southern part of the city.

Coming from main road near the train station, we walked towards an alley where there’s shops and restaurants lined on both sides.

We’ve also passed through several shops that maintained a traditional Japanese house setting.

Then, a sudden transition into a lively and vibrant area of Shinsekai. Filled with 3D signages, banners and mascots exhibited at each shops.

At the middle you have a view of the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, which is a landmark in this area.

While exploring Shinsekai, we stumbled upon the main branch of a famous restaurant in a small alley, Kushikatsu Daruma. Since there were only a few people in line, we decided to eat lunch here.

After lunch, we’ve searched for a coffee shop on our route back to Dobutsuen-Mae Station. Just across the street, Café Causerie 1947 caught our attention because of its red brick structure. We had some coffee and dessert.

The next destination on our Osaka day tour was Shinsaibashi. Here’s the detailed Osaka guide.

WATCH THE FULL VLOG HERE

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT OSAKA, JAPAN

The best time to visit Osaka, Japan is March to May during spring. Do note that cherry blossom season is also a peak season in Japan.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO JAPAN - WINTER EDITION

Clothes for cold weather
Jacket
Comfortable shoes/ sneakers/ boots
Backpack
Camera / gear
Powerbank
Toiletries
Universal Adaptor
Tumbler

HOW TO GET TO OSAKA, JAPAN FROM MANILA

The most convenient way to get to Japan from Manila is via direct flight. There are several entry points to choose from: Kansai, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Haneda, Narita.

For the common Osaka, Tokyo, Kyoto tour, best option is Kansai Airport.

HOW TO GET TO NAMBA FROM KANSAI AIRPORT

To get to Namba from Kansai Airport, there are several options: train, bus or taxi. For this experience, we took a train to Namba.

There are several train options to choose from but during our visit, we decided to take the nearest schedule and fastest train available. We took the Limited Express Rapi:t to Namba. It has reserved seats, overhead compartments and luggage space.

You can buy a Nankai line ticket from Kansai Airport to Namba Station in advance here

HOW TO GET TO SHINSEKAI FROM NAMBA STATION

To get to Shinsekai from Namba Station, take the Midosuji Line. Alight at Dobutsuen-Mae Station and walked a few minutes to Shinsekai.

OSAKA, JAPAN BUDGET AND ITINERARY

Based on this itinerary, which includes all the activities and restaurants covered in the blog, the budget for a 2 day trip in Osaka, Japan for two person is around 38,000.00 Yen or around Php15,000.00. The cost of the Matsusaka Gyu Yakiniku M experience is also included. See detailed budget and itinerary below:

NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING OSAKA, JAPAN

No Tipping.
Be on time.
Cash is king.
Avoid speaking loudly in public areas, particularly in enclosed spaces such as buses, trains, elevators, and similar environments.
While exploring Japan, consistently stay on the left side, whether it's on escalators, sidewalks, or streets. Except in Osaka.
People from Japan, form queues in bus lines, restaurants and elevators.
While there are numerous food stalls lining in the streets of streets of Japan, you should refrain from eating while walking.
Finding trash cans or sorting bins can be challenging when exploring Japan destinations. Usually, it is placed near vending machine, train stations and convenience stores.
Table napkin in most restaurants and coffee shops in Japan is waxed. I think it is not effective in wiping grease and oil.
When using public toilets in Japan, used toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Toilet paper in Japan easily dissolves in water unlike in other countries. NOTE: Only toilet paper. Properly dispose wet wipes, napkins and other similar items.

OSAKA, JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS

Secure your passport
Be sure to have a credit card for emergency
Download the following Google Apps: Google Maps for Navigating and Google Translate for basic translation.
Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or eSim in advance. This way you’ll have data as soon as you land in Japan. I’ve tried pocket Wi-Fi during our vacation and encountered no issues on connections or signal.
If you are travelling around Japan, buy the Japan Rail Pass or JR Pass in advance. For convenience, best to avail the Green Car option. For Green Car holders, best to reserve your seat in advance as well. You can buy the JR Pass here.
Since trash cans or sorting bins are not common in public places or streets of Japan, best to have a small plastic/paper bag for your garbage.
Travelling with luggage in Japan across multiple cities in Japan can be challenging. For a convenient experience, try a luggage delivery service.
Exploring Japan often involves a significant amount of walking, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes.
Instead of buying bottled water, bring your own tumbler.