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Shopping in Osaka: 11 Budget-Friendly Facilities and What to Buy

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Osaka is the perfect place to taste delicious foods and purchase fun Japanese souvenirs. Shopping in Osaka is known to be rather affordable so today we introduce some of the best places to buy fashion and souvenirs in one of Japan's most popular cities.

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横浜に育ち、古都鎌倉の高校に通い、大学は超都会の渋谷、イギリスのロンドン留学時はなぜか日本食のイベントを立ち上げて料理人、現在はライターをしている未熟者です。 ブログ:一期一会

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Osaka - Affordable Shopping for Every Budget

Osaka is the largest city in the Kansai region. It boasts the second highest population in the country right behind Tokyo. A vital transportation hub, Osaka is also a convenient place to stop by when you’re traveling to Kobe and Kyoto. Travelers can even fly directly to Osaka using the Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Osaka also has a reputation as a great city for shopping. This article will introduce you to the main areas of Osaka City, and recommend eleven places where you can pick up the best souvenirs.

Osaka's 11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots

Good to Know: Shopping in Osaka’s North vs South Area
1. Herbis Plaza ENT
2. Grand Front Osaka
3. Hep Five
4. Namba Marui
5. Hoop
6. Shinsaibashi OPA Landmark
7. Tennoji Mio
8. Amerikamura
9. Namba Parks
10. Shinsaibashi Suji
11. Abeno Harukasu

Shopping Spots in Osaka’s North and South Areas: What Makes Them Different?

Osaka is mainly divided into the north (Kita) and the south (Minami) areas.

Kita: Find the Latest Trends in the Umeda Area

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Kita centers around the bustling Umeda area close to Osaka Station.

The neighborhood is known for creating the latest art and fashion trends. It can easily be accessed from anywhere in the city. If you want the latest trendy items for an affordable price, head to Kita!

Minami: Authentic Osaka Atmosphere in Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

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The heart of the Minami area is Namba, which is filled with bustling shopping districts. In Minami, you can find Dotonbori, which has plenty of restaurants and street food to offer.

It is also home to Shinsaibashi, famous for its traditional Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street with many well-established shops.

Minami offers many places to buy affordable food and souvenirs. If you want to experience the iconic Osaka vibe, you have to visit the area.

Best Shopping Spots in Osaka

Osaka offers plenty of places to shop inside and outside Kita and Minami. Let us introduce you to eleven budget-friendly shopping spots located all over Osaka.

1. Herbis Plaza ENT - Famous Brand Items

Herbis Plaza ENT is located close to Umeda Station. It offers a variety of famous fashion outlets including domestic brands.

The B2 F floor has Japanese and Italian restaurants as well. Here you can relax and refuel even if you’re staying for a long period of time.

2. Grand Front Osaka - Shop Besides Osaka Station

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

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Grand Front Osaka is a shopping facility located in front of Osaka Station’s north exit. The north and south buildings, separated by Umeki Plaza, house 266 stores.

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta
With a rooftop garden, Grand Front Osaka has a splendid atmosphere where you can feel in touch with nature. If you’re tired from all the shopping, take a break and enjoy the greenery view.

3. Hep Five - The Famous Rooftop Ferris Wheel

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta

Hep Five is a multipurpose complex by Umeda Station. There are fashion-oriented outlets and accessory shops among its many stores.

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta
The red Ferris Wheel, located on the 7th floor, is a landmark of Osaka. From inside the Ferris Wheel, you can get an excellent view of the Osaka cityscape.

4. Namba Marui - The Latest Fashion Trends

The Namba Marui building is located a short walk away from Namba Station. This multipurpose complex is replete with fashion floors for men and women and movie theaters.

Many of Namba Marui's shops offer the latest fashion. Visit here to pick up Osaka's trendy fashion.

5. Hoop - Beautiful Light Display at Night

Hoop is a fashion outlet located in the Tennoji area. “Hoop” can also refer to “a barrel,” which describes the shape of the building. Hoop contains a lineup of about sixty stores.

When night falls, the building illumination lights up, adding color to Osaka at night. Stop by Hoop when you visit the Tennoji area.

6. Shinsaibashi OPA - A Landmark in Minami

Shinsaibashi OPA is a shopping facility in Shinsaibashi. The shops at OPA handle a wide variety of fashion items, from casual wear to high-class boutique items and even affordable secondhand clothes.

The front of the building, where the OPA logo is displayed, is often used as a meetup spot. When you visit Shinsaibashi, don't forget to drop by.

7. Tennoji Mio - A Modern Building Above Tennoji Station

Tennoji Mio is a shopping facility which was built atop Tennoji Station. It offers 251 stores, which are primarily focused on fashion. Tennoji Mio deals in items that suit the needs of a wide variety of customers. They offer something for every style and budget.

The building underwent renovations in 2013 and was completely modernized. It has gotten a lot of attention as one of the newer shopping spots in the Tennoji area.]

8. Amerikamura - Trendy and Affordable Fashion Items

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta
America Mura, also known as American Village, is located in the western part of Shinsaibashi. Typically called “Amemura,” this area has many shops selling unique fashion items. The area is famous for its many secondhand and American import shops, which is also where it got its name from. 

Amemura is also a popular area to get a variety of takoyaki and unique sweet treats. With its vivid youth and food culture, it is also known as the Harajuku of Osaka.

9. Namba Parks - Unlimited Shopping Experience

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta
Namba Parks is a shopping center close to Namba Station. It's 240 stores offer trendy fashion boutiques, home interior decoration shops and variety stores. Some of these shops offer small affordable items which make for perfect souvenirs.

There is a large park set up on the roof. It is known as an oasis in the heart of the city and many people like to take a break here.

10. Shinsaibashi Suji - Shopping Street with a Long History

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta
The Shinsaibashi Suji Shopping Street stretches from Shinsaibashi to Namba. It is an approximately 600-meter-long shopping arcade with about 180 stores. It has a great mixture of local and bargain shops and offers something for everyone.

The area is very used to overseas visitors and you can get pamphlets in English, Korean, Simplified and Traditional Chinese. Many shops also offer free Wi-Fi and tax-free goods.

11. Abeno Harukas - The Tallest Building in Japan

11 Budget-Friendly Shopping Spots In Osaka

Photo by Pixta
Abeno Harukasu, completed in March 2014, is a multipurpose business facility. It was built in the Abeno ward of Osaka. As the tallest building in Japan, with a height of 300 meters, you can see not just Osaka but Kyoto and Nara from the glass-sided 360-degree viewing platform.

Abeno Harukasu is home famous brand shops as well as budget-friendly variety stores. There are also salons specifically for international visitors, as well as tax-free procedures and foreign currency exchanges.


FAQ

Is Osaka known for shopping?

Yes, Osaka is renowned for its shopping scene. The city offers diverse shopping experiences ranging from high-end boutiques to local markets. Key shopping districts include Shinsaibashi with its mix of international and local stores, vibrant Dotonbori known for fashion and snacks, Namba featuring department stores, Tenjinbashisuji's traditional shops, and Amerikamura specializing in youth culture and trendy fashion. Osaka caters to various shopping preferences, making it a must-visit for shopaholics.

What brands to shop in Osaka?

In Osaka, you can shop for a wide range of brands catering to different styles and budgets. International brands such as Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, and Gap are popular and can be found in major shopping districts like Shinsaibashi and Namba. If you are looking for luxury goods, areas like Umeda and Namba offer stores from prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, and Dior. For those interested in unique Japanese fashion, check out local brands like Muji, Comme des Garçons, and Beams. Additionally, don't miss out on exploring small boutiques, vintage shops, and independent designers in areas like Amerikamura for a more eclectic shopping experience in Osaka.

Is Osaka or Tokyo better for shopping?

When it comes to shopping, both Osaka and Tokyo offer distinct and diverse shopping experiences. Tokyo is known for its sheer size and variety, with upscale districts like Ginza and Omotesando showcasing luxury brands while areas like Harajuku and Shibuya cater to youth fashion and trends. Osaka, on the other hand, is famous for a more laid-back and fun shopping atmosphere, with districts like Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori offering a mix of international and local brands along with vibrant street markets. Ultimately, the choice between Osaka and Tokyo for shopping depends on personal preferences - Tokyo for its vast options and high-end fashion, and Osaka for its unique blend of traditional and modern shopping experiences.

What is the famous shopping strip in Osaka?

One of the famous shopping streets in Osaka is Shinsaibashi Suji. Shinsaibashi Suji is a bustling shopping arcade located in the Namba district of Osaka. It is a vibrant and popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of shops, boutiques, department stores, restaurants, and cafes. The arcade stretches for about 600 meters and is known for its diverse shopping options, ranging from high-end fashion brands to local specialty stores, making it a prime shopping destination in Osaka.

What is the main shopping area in Osaka?

One of the main shopping areas in Osaka is Dotonbori. Dotonbori is a bustling district known for its vibrant nightlife, entertainment, and an extensive array of shops, restaurants, and street food vendors. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences. The area is famous for its iconic illuminated signs, colorful billboards, and the bustling Dotonbori Canal, creating a dynamic and lively atmosphere for shopping and dining in Osaka.

Enjoy an Affordable Shopping Experience in Osaka

Osaka people love to shop and eat good food. You can easily enjoy both on a budget when visiting the popular city.

Why not check out some of these spots on your next visit?

Main image by Pixta

横浜に育ち、古都鎌倉の高校に通い、大学は超都会の渋谷、イギリスのロンドン留学時はなぜか日本食のイベントを立ち上げて料理人、現在はライターをしている未熟者です。 ブログ:一期一会

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