A Pro’s Guide To Shopping In Osaka
We break down the retail spots in the various Osaka neighbourhoods you need to hit.
Now that Japan has finally announced a full scale tourism reopening, who’s hopping on the next flight over? Well, best to pack light because after more than two years of pining for that getaway to the land of the rising sun, there’s a lot of shopping to catch up on.
And while Tokyo is probably the first city that comes to mind for a spree, do also consider Osaka. This metropolis in western Japan, which is best known for its vibrant street food scene and close proximity to attractions such as Universal Studios Japan, is also a shopping mecca with a diverse array of offerings to cater to designer label lovers, thrift hunters and every one in between.
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Even better, these shopping places are generally grouped into “neighbourhoods” so you can zoom in on exactly whatever interests you. Hot tip: The uber chic W Osaka, designed by renown architect Tadao Ando is strategically positioned within walking distance of many of these shopping districts, so you can easily drop off your bags before heading out for more.
So, in between all that sightseeing, make time to go on a treasure hunt – your wardrobe will thank you.
If you can’t get enough of Y2K style, make a beeline for the colourful neighbourhood of Amerikamura, where the streets are lined with indie vintage and thrift stores (pictured). As its name implies, the aesthetic here is strongly influenced by classic American style from laidback Hawaiian surfer chic to grungy cool California denim and band tees. To orientate yourself, head to Sankaku Koen (Triangle Park), the central point of this neighbourhood where you can also indulge in a bout of people watching for some street style inspo.
This bohemian neighbourhood frequented by creatives and artsy types is choc-a-bloc with local cafes, interesting galleries and of course, plenty of one-of-a-kind boutiques to pop into for a browse. Expect to uncover lesser known finds here, including an outpost of cult Japanese label Toga Archives. Sneakerheads will also want to find their way to Japanese sneaker marketplace Snrkrdunk (pictured), for an eye popping selection of rare and deadstock sneakers – but be prepared to pay top dollar for these holy grails.
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For a Breakfast at Tiffany’s moment, take a stroll down the Champs Elysee of Japan at Midosuji, the tree-lined thoroughfare running through Minami Osaka. The vicinity of the W Osaka is particularly glitzy, with just about every luxury label imaginable, including Cartier, Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton as well as outposts of some top Japanese brands including a cavernous Comme des Garcons boutique (pictured) that also stocks its popular Play range.
For a quintessential Japanese shopping experience, visit Shinsaibashi-suji (pictured), a covered shopping arcade which stretches for about 600m in the Minami district. Look out for popular Japanese boutiques and labels including United Arrows, Lowrys Farm and Uniqlo’s sister label GU liberally dotted among the usual high street brands such as H&M and Zara. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants for when you need a break. Do also wander off into the smaller side streets to seek out unique local souvenirs such as kimono stores and gift shops.
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Mall rats and department store lovers, the environs around the massive Osaka Station is where you’ll want to be at for easy access to an interconnected labyrinth of shopping options. The station’s North Gate Building houses the Lucua shopping centre that is packed with tiny fashion and accessory stores while the venerable Daimaru department store occupies the South Gate Building. Also within the vicinity are the Hankyu Grand and Mitsukoshi-Isetan department stores. Don’t forget to bring your passport out with you as most of these stores can process your tax refund.
This article originally appeared in FEMALE.