1. Namba is one of Osaka’s main city centers and represents the core of the southern downtown area known as Minami. It’s a high-energy district that never sleeps, offering an irresistible mix of dining, shopping, culture, and entertainment.

Top Highlights and Things to Do in Namba:

• Dotonbori: The most famous entertainment area in Osaka, known for its giant neon billboards, including the Glico Running Man and Kani Doraku’s moving crab sign. This is the best place to try Osaka’s street food favorites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

• Hozenji Yokocho: A nostalgic, stone-paved alleyway lined with cozy izakaya (Japanese pubs) and restaurants, leading to the moss-covered Hozenji Temple—a must-see for those who love traditional charm.

• Kuromon Ichiba Market: Nicknamed “Osaka’s Kitchen,” this covered market is perfect for tasting fresh seafood, fruits, and local street snacks.

• Shopping: From the long, covered Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street and the nature-inspired Namba Parks mall to the electronics and anime hub Den Den Town and the upscale Takashimaya Department Store—Namba has it all.

• Culture: Visit the lion-head-shaped Namba Yasaka Shrine or enjoy traditional Japanese puppet theater at the National Bunraku Theatre.

Namba is also one of Osaka’s major transportation hubs, with Nankai Namba Station, JR Namba Station, and Osaka Metro Namba Station all connected. These lines offer direct access to Kansai International Airport, Kyoto, Nara, and other key destinations, making Namba an ideal base for exploring Osaka and beyond.

• Take the Osaka Metro (Midosuji, Yotsubashi, or Sennichimae Lines) to Namba Station.

• JR and Nankai Lines also stop at Namba Station, all conveniently connected.

• From Kansai International Airport (KIX), take the Nankai Airport Express or Rapi:t train directly to Namba in about 35–45 minutes. 

• Visit in the evening to experience the full neon glow of Dotonbori.

• Bring your camera—Namba is full of photogenic spots.

• Try local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kaiten sushi (conveyor-belt sushi).

• For the best convenience, stay at a hotel near Namba Station for easy access to all major attractions.

Admission Fee:

• Free (public area). Some attractions such as theaters or special exhibitions may charge admission.

Opening Time:

• Open 24 hours (most shops open around 10:00–22:00).