Osaka Shopping Guide: Best Shopping Malls, Streets, and Products to Buy

Our Osaka shopping guide lists out the best shopping malls and streets as well as products to buy in the city. Let us help you plan your next trip.

Some may say that Osaka is only for the shoppers and the foodies but really, it’s for everyone. Being the second largest city in Japan, Osaka is an adventure in itself. It’s home to impressive skyscrapers, a haven for food, and bustling shopping districts that feel like they never sleep. For shopaholics, Osaka is truly a must. So, the next time you’re in the city, you’ll need to know the ins and outs to navigate this shopping mecca. Read our Osaka shopping guide for recommendations on where to shop, the best products to buy, and some handy shopping tips.

Osaka is a treasure trove when it comes to shopping and food. It’s the entry point for those visiting Kyoto or heading to Universal Studios Japan. And while others may brand it as “boring” due to its lesser “historical” landmarks, we argue that Osaka’s charm is that it’s a buzzy metropolis. There’s nothing wrong with that especially if you’re into shopping, eating, or strolling around. In fact, Osaka is an impressive mix of old and new.

Shopping malls pop up here and there and yet, its best landmarks are also among its oldest. Amidst the high-end brands are also mom-and-pop shops that still operate today. Among the fine dining establishments are old-school pubs that survived the test of time. Oh, Osaka is truly for everyone. Looking to find your way into this city? Then, our Osaka shopping guide will surely come in handy. 

Osaka shopping guide: Where to shop in Osaka?

Dotonbori

Do we need to say more? No Osaka shopping guide is complete without Dotonbori, no matter how cliche or repetitive it may be. This is the heart of the city, where everything happens. It’s the hotspot for shopping, eating, entertainment, and more. During the day, you can admire the picturesque area as crowds gather to shop and snap photos. After sunset, the area becomes even more lively with towering neon lights and extravagant three-dimensional signages. Don’t let its looks fool you! Despite its rather modern look, the town thrived way back as an entertainment district filled with theatres and teahouses. Now, it’s lined with shops, restaurants, and a lot of other eye-catching attractions.

Address: 1 Chome-9 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
Website: dotonbori.or.jp/en

Hankyu Department Store (Umeda)

Umeda is among the central shopping areas in Osaka as it is located around Osaka Station and JR Umeda Station. Here, you’ll find skyscrapers of department stores ranging from popular names such as Hankyu, HEP, and more. For the ultimate luxury shopping in central Osaka, look no further than Hankyu Department Store. As the main store of the Hankyu brand in Osaka, the mall spans 15 floors all the way from B2 to the 13th floor. Shoppers can find anything from Chanel to Louis Vuitton and more. But for tourists, the basement floors are probably of more interest as they boast a souvenir marketplace all-in-one.

Address: 8-7 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-8350, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6361-1381
Website: website.hankyu-dept.co.jp

LUCUA Osaka

LUCA Osaka is so large that it is divided into two sections — LUCUA and LUCUA 1100. Thanks to its direct connection to Osaka Station, it’s one of the busiest shopping malls in the city. Tourists and residents alike can roam around the mall which stretches up to 12 floors. The division is also strategic with a mix of high-end brands and budget-friendly options. Those who have a knack for Japanese products and brands can shop at UNIQLO or GU and even 3Coins Store. Else, LOFT and Tsutaya bookstore are also available along with a dedicated dining area on one of the floors.

Address: 3 Chome-1-3 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-8558, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6151-1111
Website: lucua.jp/en

HEP Five

It’ll be difficult to miss HEP Five with its striking red Ferris wheel, which is part of the main shopping centre. Another massive department store, HEP Five spans 11 floors and is just a short walk from Umeda Station. What’s available here are trendier brands for young shoppers such as niko and…, Olive des Olive and more. Despite its size, HEP Five is not as large compared to other shopping malls in the area. However, the Ferris wheel definitely makes up for extra points.

Address: 5-15 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0017, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6313-0501
Website: hepfive.jp

Shinsaibashi Shopping Street

Shinsaibashi is another one of Osaka’s busiest shopping districts as it’s home to a plethora of major department stores that are popular among locals and tourists. Although it may look modern in design, the street has a history of 380 years as it was already a shopping area back in the Edo Period. The vibrant street is lined with boutique stores and retail outlets such as Sanrio, UNIQLO, Disney, Kimono tailors, cosmetic shops, and more. If it gets too crowded, you can just pop into one of the department stores for indoor shopping. Or, the roofed 600-metre-long arcade is an experience in itself.

Address: 2-2-22 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 542-0085, Japan
Website: shinsaibashi.or.jp/lang/en

Namba Parks

Namba is another bustling district in Osaka as it serves as one of the main transportation hubs of the city. Right outside Namba Station, you’ll be greeted by several large shopping malls such as Namba Parks or Namba City. But if you only have time for one place to shop in the area then it’s definitely Namba Parks. The place itself is massive, comprising shopping facilities with green spaces as well as a rooftop garden. The nine-floor mall is home to decor, cosmetics, apparel, and more. The rooftop garden also has its own reputation, known as the Park Garden, which makes for a perfect afternoon stroll if you need a break from all the shopping.

Address: 2 Chome-10-70 NaNBAnaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6644-7100
Website: osaka-info.jp/en

Den Den Town

Den Den Town is Osaka’s answer to Akihabara. If you aren’t familiar with either then just know that it’s a one-stop destination for anime, cameras, electronics, gadgets, computers, games, and comics. So, ideally, this place is perfect for all the pop culture geeks and those on the lookout for the latest gadgets. But in our opinion, Den Den Town (also known as Electric Town) fares better than Akihabara when it comes to shopping. A case in point is that the shops are concentrated along two main streets which makes it easier to navigate. And while it may be less crowded than its Tokyo counterpart, that’s actually a good thing. You’ll have more space to shop and look around. Den Den Town seems more like a time capsule, where you’ll find antique shops, vintage gachapon machines, and more.

Address: Nipponbashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0005, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6655-1717
Website: osaka-info.jp/en

Americamura

Americamura or America Village is where the cool kids hang out. Or simply where you can find American brands or American-style goods. Since the early 1970s, Americamura has been the centre of Osaka’s youth culture akin to Tokyo’s Harajuku. It’s the place to find hipsters, skaters, fashionistas, and even comedians. The area comes alive during the weekends where you’ll see shoppers looking for thrift shops and vintage clothes, cafes, live music, cool bars, and more. If you couldn’t tell from the name, plenty of shops in the area sell jeans and vintage clothes from the US ala Y2K style. While the area is small and bigger shopping malls have popped up, a visit to Americamura is simply a must when you’re in Osaka.

Address: 1 Chome Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0086, Japan
Website: japan.Travel

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street

While less popular than Shinsaibai Shopping Street, you’ll be pleased to know that Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street is larger in size. In fact, it’s one of the longest shopping arcades in Japan, stretching over 2.5 kilometres and spanning three metro stations. You’ll find close to 800 shops in this bustling street ranging from clothing to retail and restaurants as well as tea houses. The mix of old and new makes it a less commercial option than other shopping streets or shotengai. It’s always said that a shotengai is the best way to enjoy what a neighbourhood has to offer and this place certainly has plenty. Most Osaka shopping guide may miss this out but not ours.

Address: Tenjinbashi, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, 530-0041, Japan
Website: osaka-info.jp/en

Abeno Harukas

Until 2023, Abeno Harukas as the tallest building in Japan. Besides that, Abeno Harukas is also known for its observation deck called Harukas 300. It occupies the building’s entire three top floors complete with floor-to-ceiling glass panels and 360-degree views of Osaka. The department store is one of the largest in Japan, covering over 100,000 square metres of retail space. Take your time exploring the two sections: the tower and the wing. The tower boasts various international brands as well as restaurants. Meanwhile, the wing caters to younger shoppers with Sports stores, Travel outlets, and bookstores. The building also has an art museum on the 16th floor and a garden terrace. If that’s not enough, visitors can also spend some time in the rooftop plaza.

Address: 1 Chome-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno Ward, Osaka, 545-6016, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6621-0300
Website: abenoharukas-300.jp/en

Shinsekai

Shinsekai or New World is a bit of an oddball attraction in Osaka. While its name translates to ‘new world’, you won’t expect to find the latest innovative here. Instead, it’s somewhat like a retro shopping area and has remained like that over the years. Although the height of its popularity was in the early 20th century when there were plenty of amusement attractions like Lune Park (which closed down in 1923), most of the small establishments remained. This is what kept the charm of Shinsekai. One important area is Jan-Jan Yokocho Lane, a dining and shopping street that labourers frequented after World War II.

You’ll still see Japanese-style pubs and affordable restaurants along this street. And while this “traditional” aspect remains, half of the area is actually modelled after New York’s Coney Island and the other is designed after Paris. Shinsekai’s most defining feature is Tsutenkaku Tower (‘tower reaching to heaven’), patterned after the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe.

Address: 2 Chome Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Website: shinsekai.net

Tempozan Marketplace

Tempozan Marketplace is part of the larger Tempozan Harbour Village, an entertainment and shopping complex near the Kaiyukian Aquarium. The marketplace is modelled after the concept of a festive marketplace (as its name suggests). As such, visitors can find nearly 60 retail and dining establishments around the area including a food theme park that highlights Osaka cuisine. There’s even a zoo and an indoor LEGO playground on top of other shopping experiences. After all that shopping, get on the giant Ferris wheel to take in wonderful views of Osaka.

Address: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Phone: +81 6-6576-5501
Website: kaiyukan.com

The best products to buy in Osaka

There are plenty of products to buy in Osaka ranging from apparel, footwear, accessories, and tableware. However, kimono, tableware, keychains, and cosmetics are a given. You know you have to buy these when you’re in Japan, not just Osaka. So instead of that, check out our recommendations below. Osaka is lauded for its food offerings, whether it’s street food or high-end dining, so it’s not surprising that the best products and souvenirs to buy are also in the form of food. The list in our Osaka shopping guide is not exhaustive but we rounded up the top ones. From pastries to snacks, here are the products you need to try and buy when you’re in Osaka.

Osaka Takoyaki Sweets

One of the most recognisable sights in Osaka, besides the Glico man of course, are the numerous restaurants and food stalls. That giant red crab? What about the octopus? Takoyaki is no doubt, a popular snack in Japan but it’s all the rage in Osaka, especially in Dotonbori. And while you can’t take home the actual snack itself, why not buy the next best thing? The Osaka Takoyaki Sweets embodies the popular snack with its flavours of sauce, seaweed, and bonito. But instead of a savoury bite, the pastry chef added a sweet twist.

Osaka Applico

Apple might not be Osaka’s popular export but we still recommend the Osaka Applico because you can truly say that it’s a “made in Japan” snack. Savour the flavours of the diced apple plum jam complete with crispy pie crust. Plus, the floral packaging makes for an eye-catching souvenir.

Chidoriya Souke

When you’re in Osaka, don’t miss this speciality item that even residents swear by. Chidiroiya Souske is a well-known Japanese confection brand with several shops in Osaka. They have been in the Game since 1630, so you know their products are really tried and tested. While they have several offerings available such as manju (sweet bun) and shortbread cookies, it’s really the mochi that’s well-loved as well as the hon-chidori manju that everyone should try at least once.

Osaka Karaage Senbei

Karaage (fried chicken) is a popular Japanese dish while senbei (rice crackers) is a well-loved snack. Combine them and you have the Osaka exclusive karaage senbei. It even boasts two flavours: tako (octopus) and curry. Perfect as a snack or as an accompaniment to sake, you can only get these two flavours in Osaka so don’t miss it.

Amidaike Daikoku Sweets

Amidaike Daikoku Sweets is another Japanese confectionery that has a long history, over 200 years in fact. Their secret? A recipe handed down through generations by the founder. Their creations are made from rice or millet that is hardened with sugar or starch syrup with techniques perfected through the years. The flavours are simple, either ginger or sesame but the Japanese-style packaging adds some extra points.

Tips for shopping in Osaka

The wonders of tax-free shopping

Osaka is home to various tax-free shops, which is really great news for tourists. So, you get the consumption tax off the final bill, which is only exclusive to non-residents. Note that tax exemption only applies to certain products such as general goods including bags and shoes, clothing, watches, and household appliances. Perishable items like cosmetics, fruits, food, and drinks are also included. To be able to claim tax exemption, you’ll need to purchase a minimum of JPY 5,000 (approx. HKD 265) within a single day for general goods. Meanwhile, purchases for a million or more require a copy of your passport.

When it comes to consumable goods, a minimum purchase of JPY 5,000 (approx. HKD 265)  and a maximum of JPY 500,000 (approx. HKD 26,500) within a single day is needed. The products must be taken out of the country within 30 days of purchase. Plus, they need to be packed or sealed in a plastic bag to ensure that they will not be consumed while in Japan. Popular tax-free shops include Don Quixote, Doton Plaza, and Hankyu Department Store. Or just look for a red and white ‘tax-free’ sign on the shop entrance.

Divide your itinerary by areas

The best way to plan your shopping trip to Osaka is to categorise it by area. For instance, if you’re staying near the main stations of Namba or Umeda, start at the gigantic shopping malls there. Then, make your way around Shinsaibashi, either from the shopping arcade before you head to Den Den Town and Americamura. This way, it’s also easier to plan which attractions to visit because most of them are close to the shopping areas.

Cash is your friend

Those who frequently visit Japan already know that cash is king in the country. While times have been changing and more electronic means of payment are available, most boutiques and stalls still prefer cash. Of course, if you’re shopping at a department store, credit card payments are not a problem. But if you’re at those mom-and-pop shops, then you might have to use cash. So as a thumb rule, it’s always best to just carry some extra cash with you.

Mix commercial with traditional

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with shopping at a department store, especially in Japan. But it’s also a good idea to try going ‘local’ and really experience the shotengai shopping experience. So, when planning your shopping itinerary, we really recommend doing a mix of both so that you’ll also get a feel of both. When it comes to souvenirs, corner street shops and those hidden among the alleyways are really gems. But if you’re looking for something more specific, then a department store it is.

We hope our Osaka shopping guide helps you with your trip. Happy shopping!

All images credit: Dick Thomas Johnson/Flickr

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok