Osaka's old city center, Tennoji and Shinsekai are must-see attractions in Osaka

Tennoji and the surrounding Shinsekai are must-sees in Osaka. There are a variety of delicious foods, a world-famous shrine, and much more to explore.

Don’t miss landmarks in the heart of old Osaka
1. Visit Abeno Harukas, Japan’s tallest building
2. Taste the famous kushiage (deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers) at Shinsekai in Osaka
3. Visit Japan’s oldest official Buddhist temple and its five-story pagoda
4. Shitennoji’s famous flea market held on the 21st and 22nd of every month



Getting There

Tennoji is a major transportation hub, so there are many ways to get there. Take the JR Express from Kansai International Airport to Tennoji Station. Take the Midosuji Line or JR Osaka Loop Line from Osaka Station or Umeda Station

A sense of depth with a history

Osaka people use the word "deep" to describe the environment in this area, referring to streets and buildings that are not so refined and have a rough feel. Although the streets around Tennoji Station near Abeno Harukas have recently been renovated, you can still experience this sense of depth in many quaint alleys.

Climb Japan's tallest skyscraper and travel through the clouds

At 300 meters high, Abeno Harukas gives you a panoramic view of the city. Buy a ticket and take the elevator to the top of the building to look down on the vast city below. Shop for high-end boutiques on floors 1-12. There are also restaurants, cafes, art galleries and hotels in the building.



Get a glimpse of Osaka 100 years ago at Shinsekai

Development work began in the early 20th century, and here you can find traces of generations gone by. Japan began modernizing in the 1860s, incorporating Western design and pop culture into daily social life. These, combined with Japanese national sensibilities, created a gorgeous and bold style. You can see the fusion of different cultures at Shinsekai, and enjoy cold beer and a variety of fried skewers.



Relax in Tennoji Park

Relax in the recently redeveloped Tennoji Park. On weekends, the grassy area is full of young couples having picnics and playing in the park, with the towering Abeno Harukas providing shade. Here you can get acquainted with your surroundings before continuing your exploration.



Explore the origins of Japanese Buddhism at Shitennoji

Shitennoji is Japan's oldest official temple, featuring a five-story pagoda, unique architecture, and several seasonal festivals. The temple is not only a tourist attraction, but also a popular spot for locals, especially during the Bon Festival in the fall. Locals also participate in the Doya Doya Festival, where young men wear only a thong and are doused with ice water. The temple's vast grounds provide a haven from the busy city.




Enjoy Osaka's classic food culture

Have you noticed that many middle-aged and elderly people in Japan gather in small standing drinking bars? These bars are called standing drinking bars because drinkers have to stand while drinking. They are quite common in Tennoji and Shinsekai. In these unassuming bars, you can chat with white-collar and blue-collar drinking buddies in a simple atmosphere.



In addition to standing drinking bars, you can also go to Shinsekai to taste Osaka's famous kushikatsu (deep-fried meat skewers). Thin slices of meat, fish and vegetables are fried in a pan until crispy and you can enjoy them.