Everything You Need to Know About the Osaka Shinsekai Food Tour

Are you planning a trip to Japan? If so, you’ll no doubt want to explore Osaka in all its glory. Shinsekai is one of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods, and if you’re looking for a culinary experience that’s outside the ordinary, there’s a food tour of this area where you can learn more about local gastronomic culture. Read on to find out more about the Osaka Shinsekai food tour and why it’s an experience you simply cannot pass up.

What You Can Expect on the Food Tour

The food tour takes place in one of the oldest parts of Osaka. It’s the ideal way to immerse yourself in the culture and traditional gastronomy of this famous neighbourhood. During the 3-hour tour, a bilingual guide will lead you through its characteristic alleys and introduce you to the neighbourhood’s hidden gems, so you can savour the finest local delicacies while learning more about the area.

You can expect to sample a selection of Osaka’s most popular dishes, such as a savoury takoyaki octopus ball, as well as other treats like kushikatsu, a skewer of deep-fried vegetables or meat that’s dipped in a special sauce. Wash them down with an ice-cold local beer in a traditional izakaya, a Japanese pub that goes back generations.

The food tour has been created by knowledgeable local experts passionate about Japanese cuisine, so you can rest assured that you’ll discover unique dishes that you won’t be able to find elsewhere. It’s an excellent opportunity to try an array of diverse flavours and learn more about the local culture too. Prices begin at ¥6,400 per person.

Where to Find the Food Tour

The Osaka Shinsekai food tour is led by GetYourGuide and is operated by local guides experienced in Shinsekai culture, food and history. The meeting point is at Ebisubashi-suji, the iconic bridge over Dōtonbori canal located in the centre of the city. You can easily get here on foot, but if you’re coming from further afield or want to save time, hop on the Midosuji Subway Line and alight at Namba Station.

Why Take a Food Tour Around Shinsekai

Shinsekai is an attractive neighbourhood with a unique atmosphere of old-meets-new, not to mention its unmissable neon signs. It dates back to 1912 and is filled with traditional sushi bars, yakitori stands, noodle places and izakayas, perfect for sampling all sorts of local delights. Considering it’s one of the oldest parts of Osaka, it’s a great way to get an understanding of where the culture started and how it has evolved over time. That being said, despite its “aged’ personality, Shinsekai is home to some of the city’s hottest clubs and bars too.

Local Tip

If you don’t mind getting closer to the locals on your trip, wait until it’s dark before heading over to Shinsekai – that’s when many people meet up to have a night out and there will be more establishments open where you can try even more Osaka’s delights.

If you love discovering new places and tasting amazing local dishes from different cultures, a food tour around this lively district ticks all the boxes. Get ready to savour some of Japan’s most beloved dishes! You can book your spot now here.

The Insider’s Guide to Osaka

Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis that is known for its street food, shopping, and nightlife. One of the most popular destinations in Osaka is Shinsekai, which is known for its delicious food and unique atmosphere. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Osaka Shinsekai food tour, along with other must-see attractions, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Osaka.

Attractions

Osaka is brimming with fascinating attractions that are perfect for tourists to visit. Osaka Castle is one of the most famous attractions in the city and is a must-visit for history buffs. The castle dates back to the 16th century and was built by famous Japanese warrior, Hideyoshi Toyotomi. The castle has been restored to its former glory and features a museum that is home to some of the best collections of Japanese history.

Another must-visit attraction in Osaka is the Umeda Sky Building. This unique structure features two buildings that are connected by a rooftop observatory. The observatory offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and is a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts.

For a cultural experience, tourists should head over to the famous Glico Running Man. The iconic sign has been a symbol of Osaka since the 1930s and is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about Japanese pop culture.

Dining Spots

When it comes to food in Osaka, Shinsekai is the perfect neighborhood to please your taste buds. The district is famous for its street food and features numerous restaurants that serve local delicacies such as kushikatsu, a deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables, and takoyaki, a ball-shaped snack that is made from flour, eggs, and octopus.

One of the most famous restaurants in Shinsekai is Daruma, which has been serving delicious food since 1929. The restaurant’s specialty is kushikatsu, and it serves everything from meat to vegetables and even dessert.

Another restaurant worth checking out in the Shinsekai area is Chibo, which is known for serving delicious okonomiyaki, a savory pancake that is filled with meat, vegetables, and noodles. The restaurant also offers private seating areas, making it a great spot for larger groups.

Cultural Experiences

Osaka is home to numerous cultural experiences that tourists can participate in and learn more about the city’s history and traditions. The Osaka Museum of History is a great place to start and offers exhibits that highlight the city’s history from ancient times to the present day.

For a unique cultural experience, tourists should consider staying at a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn that features tatami floors and futon beds. Many Ryokans offer meals and private hot spring baths, which are perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.

Additionally, Osaka is famous for its theater scene, and tourists should not miss seeing kabuki, a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines acting, dance, and music. The National Bunraku Theater is the best place to catch a performance, and it also offers English language headsets for non-Japanese speakers.

Local History

Osaka has a long and rich history, and tourists can learn more about the city’s past by visiting landmarks such as the Osaka Castle mentioned earlier. The castle played a vital role in Japanese history, and many important battles were fought here during the 16th century.

Another important landmark in Osaka is the Shitennoji Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Japan. The temple has been reconstructed several times over the years, but it still stands as a testament to the city’s history and traditions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For tourists looking to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions, there are numerous off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Osaka. One such location is the Hozenji Temple, a small temple that features a moss-covered statue of Fudo Myoo, the Buddhist god of wisdom and fire.

Another suggestion is the Dotonbori neighborhood, which is a bustling district that is known for its bright neon signs and delicious street food. This area is popular among locals and tourists alike, and it offers a different perspective on the city than some of the more popular sightseeing destinations.

Conclusion

Osaka is a fascinating city that has something for every type of tourist. From delicious food to rich history and unique cultural experiences, the city is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Japan. The Shinsekai food tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s food scene, but there’s so much more to see and do beyond that. By following the suggestions in this insider’s guide, tourists can be sure to have an unforgettable experience in Osaka.