Name: Shin Sekai "New World"
Address: 2-chōme-5-1 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
Rating: 4.1

Bustling, colorful district created in 1912 with a 103-m tower, restaurants & souvenir shops.

Universal Studios Japan

Provided by Google

Osaka Castle

Dotonbori

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Nara Park

Shinsekai was originally built in 1912, modeled after Paris and New York. The southern part was inspired by New York, while the northern part was modeled after Paris.

Year of Opening

The Tsutenkaku Tower is the symbol of Shinsekai. The original tower was inspired by the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, but it was dismantled during World War II and rebuilt in 1956.

Iconic Tower

Billiken, a charm doll and 'God of Things As They Ought to Be,' is a popular symbol in Shinsekai. Rubbing the soles of his feet is said to bring good luck.

God of Things

Shinsekai is famous for Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables. A key rule is 'no double dipping' in the communal sauce!

Local Delicacy

Shinsekai was once home to Luna Park, a large amusement park that was a major attraction in Osaka. It closed in 1923.

Former Amusement Park

Shinsekai retains a strong retro atmosphere, reminiscent of early 20th-century Japan. It offers a glimpse into the past with its old buildings and traditional shops.

Nostalgic Atmosphere

Shin Sekai "New World"

Shin Sekai, Osaka's "New World," is a concentrated dose of early 20th-century Japan, a deliberate throwback that feels both nostalgic and slightly surreal. Anchored by the Tsutenkaku Tower, a reimagining of the Eiffel Tower, the district is a vibrant tapestry of retro arcades, kushikatsu restaurants, and blinking neon signs. Unlike other tourist areas, Shin Sekai retains a distinctly working-class atmosphere, a legacy of its origins as a pleasure district. The area's design, intentionally mirroring both Paris and Coney Island, reveals a fascinating ambition to create a global entertainment hub. Look closely, and you'll notice the prevalence of Billiken, the "God of Things As They Ought To Be," a quirky American import adopted as Shin Sekai's mascot. The area's grittiness is part of its charm, a reminder of Osaka's more rough-and-tumble past, offering a stark contrast to the city's sleek, modern image. It's a place where time seems to slow down, inviting visitors to savor the flavors and atmosphere of a bygone era.

Introduction

Tsutenkaku Tower, literally "the tower reaching the sky," stands as the emblem of Osaka's Shinsekai district, a nostalgic "New World" developed in the early 20th century. Originally inspired by the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, the first Tsutenkaku was erected in 1912, becoming a symbol of pride for Osaka. It even featured an aerial ropeway connecting it to Luna Park, an amusement park modeled after Coney Island. Damaged by fire in 1943, it was later rebuilt in 1956 by architect Tachu Naito, who also designed Tokyo Tower.

Today's 103-meter-tall tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. Inside, visitors can explore souvenir shops, a Kinnikuman Museum, and a diorama of the original tower and Luna Park. The tower's illuminations change monthly, reflecting seasonal colors. The fifth floor features a golden statue of Billiken, a god of good luck. For an additional fee, the Tembo Paradise rooftop deck provides an even higher vantage point. A thrilling "Tower Slider" descends from the third floor to the basement in just 10 seconds.

Shinsekai's development was centered around the original Tsutenkaku Tower and Luna Park, creating a retro atmosphere with colorful signboards and a nostalgic ambiance. The area is known for its culinary delights, including kushikatsu and dote-yaki. Visitors can also enjoy retro games at Kasuga Gorakujo and comedy shows at Asahi Theater and Dorakutei, all contributing to Shinsekai's unique charm.

Tsutenkaku Tower

Shinsekai is renowned for its Kushikatsu, a dish of skewered, battered, and deep-fried foods. This culinary specialty is so prominent that Shinsekai is often considered its most famous and delicious hub. Kushikatsu restaurants are abundant, many operating 24 hours, especially lively at night. The variety of Kushikatsu is extensive, ranging from meat options like chicken and beef to vegetables such as pumpkin and asparagus, and even dessert versions with banana and ice cream. Vegetarian options like tofu and lotus root are also available.

A key element of the Kushikatsu experience is the communal sauce, typically a Worcestershire-like sauce, into which the skewers are dipped. A strict "no double-dipping" rule is enforced for hygienic reasons, with some restaurants providing lettuce leaves for scooping extra sauce. Among the popular Kushikatsu restaurants in Shinsekai is Daruma, a chain established in 1929, known for its diverse skewers including sweet potato, camembert, and beef tongue. The area's culinary scene contributes significantly to Shinsekai's retro and colorful atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Osaka food experience.

Kushikatsu Cuisine

Shinsekai, or "New World," in Osaka, Japan, originated in 1912, envisioned as a modern tourist attraction reflecting the city's progress. Its design drew inspiration from two distinct urban landscapes: Paris for its northern half and Coney Island in New York for its southern part. The Tsutenkaku Tower, initially constructed in 1912, served as the area's centerpiece, symbolizing its ambition. A Luna Park amusement park operated there from 1912 until its closure in 1923.

Post-World War II, minimal redevelopment led to its decline, contributing to its reputation as one of Japan's poorest areas. The area served to entertain laborers who were rebuilding Osaka. Criminal activity flourished in the decades before the 1990s. By the late 20th century, Shinsekai became known for its concentration of Osaka's cross-dressing community and a settlement of homeless individuals.

The original Tsutenkaku Tower, resembling both the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, was damaged by fire in 1943 and subsequently disassembled. It was replaced in 1956 with the current structure designed by Tachū Naitō. Festival Gate, an amusement park built to rejuvenate Osaka's most run-down area, ultimately shut down due to bankruptcy in 2004. In June 2020, the famous fugu restaurant Zuboraya, founded in 1920, closed down for financial reasons due to the global Coronavirus health crisis.

Historical Evolution

Shinsekai, Osaka's "New World," embodies the spirit of shitamachi, offering a glimpse into the city's more grounded and authentic side. Unlike the polished image of Tokyo or Kyoto, Shinsekai embraces its identity as a "lower district," a characteristic that appeals to those seeking a genuine cultural experience. The area's history, dating back to the early 20th century, reflects a time when Japan celebrated its industrial progress, and Shinsekai was designed to showcase this new era. While inspired by international cities like Paris and New York, it retains a distinctly local flavor.

Despite its portrayal as a somewhat gritty district, Shinsekai offers a safe environment to explore the traditions of shitamachi. A key element of this culture is the emphasis on affordable and accessible gastronomy. Visitors can savor local specialties like kushi-katsu, a variety of breaded and fried skewers, in the area's many small, popular restaurants. For entertainment, one can engage in retro games like smart ball, a precursor to pachinko, at arcades like Smart Ball New Star. This establishment offers a nostalgic experience, reminiscent of a bygone era. Moreover, Pika Space allows visitors to learn how to make Takoyaki while beaing inside an Art Installation, providing a hands-on experience of Osaka's street food culture.

Shin Sekai "New World"

Did You Know?

Year of Opening

Iconic Tower

God of Things

Local Delicacy

Highlights from Reviews

Location