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With Osaka at its center, the Kansai area has many outlets and malls offering enjoyable shopping experiences. This article introduces eight shopping spots with easy access from Osaka. We'll bring you the latest information on brand-name goods, mall accessibility, and other features.

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This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.

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Enjoy Shopping during Your Kansai Visit

Japan's Kansai region has many enjoyable shopping spots starting with Osaka's Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street and Umeda area department stores.

On this note, we'll introduce eight popular large-scale outlets and shopping malls in the Kansai region.

This article features information on shops with a vast selection of reasonably priced goods to spots easily accessible from Osaka City. If you are planning on shopping in the Kansai region, please read on for more details!

Top 8 Outlets and Shopping Malls in Osaka and Kyoto

1. Accessing 8 Large-Scale Outlets and Shopping Malls
2. AEON MALL Rinku Sennan
3. RINKU PREMIUM OUTLETS
4. AEON MALL Sakai Teppocho
5. AEON MALL Sakai Kita Hanada
6. LaLaport EXPOCITY
7. KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS
8. MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe
9. MITSUI OUTLET PARK Shiga Ryuo

1. Accessing 8 Large-Scale Outlets and Shopping Malls

Kansai outlets and shopping malls are usually found in the suburbs, not city centers.

Among them are shopping facilities over an hour from central Osaka. However, these establishments have fewer tourists, making shopping more enjoyable and stress-free.

Shopping Facility Name How to Access Travel Time Fare
AEON MALL Rinku Sennan From Kansai International Airport:
Take a train at JR or Nankai Railway Kansai Airport Station, get off at Rinku-Town Station, then take a 15-minute bus ride.
About 15 minutes One-way 640 yen
RINKU PREMIUM OUTLETS From Kansai International Airport:
Take a train at JR or Nankai Railway Kansai Airport Station, get off at Rinku-Town Station, then walk for about 5 minutes.
About 5 minutes One-way 370 yen
AEON MALL Sakai Teppocho From Osaka City:
Take a train at Nankai Namba Station and get off at Nankai Railway Shichido Station (direct mall access).
About 12 minutes One-way 260 yen
AEON MALL Sakai Kita Hanada From Osaka City:
Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line train at Namba Station, get off at Kita-Umeda Station, then walk for about 7 minutes.
About 18 minutes One-way 280 yen
LaLaport EXPOCITY From Osaka City:
Take the Osaka Monorail, get off at Bampaku-Kinen-Koen Station, then walk for about 2 minutes.
x x
KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS From Osaka City:
Take the JR Fukuchiyama Line at Osaka Station, get off at Mita Station, then transfer to a bus.
About 60 minutes One-way 1,040 yen
MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe *Scheduled to open in 2024 From Kobe City:
Take a train at JR Sannomiya Station, get off at JR Tarumi Station, then walk for about 9 minutes.
About 17 minutes One-way 310 yen
MITSUI OUTLET PARK Shiga Ryuo From Kyoto City:
Take a direct bus from Kyoto Station.
About 50 minutes One-way 1,000 yen

2. AEON MALL Rinku Sennan

Enjoy Kansai Shopping in 2023! Top 8 Outlets and Shopping Malls

Picture courtesy of AEON MALL

AEON MALL Rinku Sennan is located near Kansai International Airport. This heavenly shopping spot is worth visiting before leaving the Kansai region. The mall boasts 170 shops and is only a 15-minute bus ride from Rinku-Town Station.

This shopping mall faces the ocean, resembling a resort mall. In addition to a fun shopping day, visitors can watch the sun setting over the sea while enjoying a meal in the restaurant. You'll feel like you're at a luxurious resort.

A loop bus connects the mall and Rinku-Town Station with five local hotels. We also recommend this mall for visitors considering a stay in the Kansai Airport area.

Recommended brands: UNIQLO, ABC-MART, MUJI, 3COINS, welcia, etc.

AEON MALL Rinku Sennan
Location: Osaka, Sennan, Rinku Minamihama 3-12
Business hours: 10:00-21:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://rinkusennan-aeonmall.com/

Supported by AEON MALL

3. RINKU PREMIUM OUTLETS

RINKU PREMIUM OUTLETS

It's no exaggeration to say that RINKU PREMIUM OUTLETS, with its 210 shops, is the most famous shopping outlet in Osaka among overseas visitors. It's just five minutes by train from Kansai International Airport―the gateway to Osaka City. Many people stop in for a visit, either at the start or end of their Kansai trip.

We recommend visitors who either booked an early morning or evening flight to stay at a hotel in the Rinku Town area. You can have a meal or enjoy some last-minute shopping until your departure.

Recommended brands: adidas, MICHAEL KORS, Gap Outlet, BEAMS OUTLET, CASIO, COACH, LEGO, etc.

RINKU PREMIUM OUTLETS
Location: Osaka, Izumisano, Rinku Oraiminami 3-28
Business hours: 10:00-19:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/rinku/

4. AEON MALL Sakai Teppocho

Enjoy Kansai Shopping in 2023! Top 8 Outlets and Shopping Malls

Picture courtesy of AEON MALL

AEON MALL Sakai Teppocho is located in Osaka's Sakai City. It is a large-scale mall featuring 160 shops.

After opening in 2016, the beautiful scenery surrounding the mall received lots of attention. The area was applauded for retaining its historic red brick building alongside a design showcasing abundant park-like greenery. In fact, it was the recipient of the 37th Osaka Machinami Award.

Please take a closer look at this scenery on your visit!

Recommended brands: FLEUR, H&M, UNIQLO, GU, Zoff, Kojima X BicCamera, etc.

AEON MALL Sakai Teppocho
Location: Osaka, Sakai, Sakai, Teppocho 1
Business hours: 10:00-19:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://sakaiteppocho-aeonmall.com/ (Japanese)

Supported by AEON MALL

5. AEON MALL Sakai Kita Hanada

Enjoy Kansai Shopping in 2023! Top 8 Outlets and Shopping Malls

Picture courtesy of AEON MALL

AEON MALL Sakai Kita Hanada is also a large mall in Sakai City with about 160 shops.

The unique feature of this mall is the MUJI store promoting food as its theme. Customers can purchase locally-grown vegetables and fruit, sake, bread, and other edible products. Visitors can also buy local specialties unique to this area.

Recommended brands: UNIQLO, MUJI (Japan's largest store), URBAN RESEARCH DOORS, earth music & ecology natural store, BOOKS KINOKUNIYA, LOWRYS FARM, etc.

AEON MALL Sakai Kita Hanada
Location: Osaka, Sakai, Kita, Higashi Asakayama 4-1-12
Business hours: 10:00-19:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://sakaikitahanada-aeonmall.com/ (Japanese)

Supported by AEON MALL

6. LaLaport EXPOCITY

Enjoy Kansai Shopping in 2023! Top 8 Outlets and Shopping Malls

Picture courtesy of Pixta

LaLaport EXPOCITY, located in Osaka's Suita City, is a large-scale shopping facility next to the famous Expo'70 Commemorative Park.

The mall has about 300 shops, which is the most among the facilities introduced in this article. It's also home to a giant Ferris wheel. By combining a mall visit with a trip to the park, visitors can enjoy fun-filled activities for the entire day!

Recommended brands: Afternoon Tea HOME & LIVING, AZUL by moussy, COACH, Standard Products, etc.

LaLaport EXPOCITY
Location: Osaka, Suita, Senribanpaku Koen 2-1
Business hours: Weekdays 10:00-20:00, Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays 10:00-21:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/lalaport/expocity/

7. KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS

KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS

Picture courtesy of Pixta

When discussing outlet malls, Kansai residents are most familiar with KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS.

This outlet is one of the largest shopping spots in western Japan, with over 200 shops. They focus primarily on international and domestic luxury brands.

The complex was designed to resemble a luxury residential area in Los Angeles, California. Visitors can also enjoy shopping in eye-catching surroundings.

Additionally, KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS is connected by a bridge to another shopping facility: AEON MALL Kobe Kita. Shoppers can enjoy two excellent shopping spots on a single trip!

Recommended brands: ANNA SUI, ARMANI, CK, dyson, FURLA, GUCCI, PRADA, MICHAEL KORS, Samantha Thavasa, Takashimaya, etc.

KOBE-SANDA PREMIUM OUTLETS
Location: Hyogo, Kobe, Kita, Kozudai 7-3
Business hours: 10:00-19:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/kobesanda/

8. MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe
(Scheduled to open in 2024)

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe

Picture courtesy of Pixta

*MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe closed for renovations on January 15, 2023. It plans to re-open in 2024.

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe is 17 minutes by train from Sannomiya Station in the heart of Kobe. It's also near the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.

This two-story commercial complex is not as big as other outlets. However, visitors can enjoy shopping in a picturesque location facing the ocean with a commanding view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge (see photo above).

Recommended brands: agnes b, DIESEL, UNITED ARROWS LTD., COACH, MICHAEL KORS, etc. (these brands were available before the renovation closure).

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Marine Pia Kobe
Location: Hyogo, Kobe, Tarumi, Kaigandori 12-2
Official website: https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/mop/kobe/

8. MITSUI OUTLET PARK Shiga Ryuo

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Shiga Ryuo

Picture courtesy of Mitsui Fudosan

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Shiga Ryuo is located in Shiga Prefecture near Kyoto. This attractive outlet is easily accessible from Kyoto Station by direct bus.

The expansive premises of this outlet are home to over 200 shops! The huge selection of brand-name goods will meet the needs of all shoppers―regardless of age. No wonder this is a popular spot with people across Japan.

The mall is some distance from Kansai International Airport and Osaka City. Please be mindful during your shopping adventures, so you don't miss your bus or train ride home!

Recommended brands: GAP, UNITED ARROWS LTD., ZARA, MICHAEL KORS, TOMMY HILFIGER, ARMANI, INGNI, ILL by JILL STUART, etc.

MITSUI OUTLET PARK Shiga Ryuo
Location: Shiga, Gamogun, Ryuocho, Kuzushi, Sunayama 1178-694
Business hours: 10:00-20:00 *Please check the official website for closing days.
Official website: https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/mop/shiga/

FAQ

How do I get to Rinku outlet from Osaka?

The Kansai Airport Rapid operated by JR travels between Osaka Station and Rinku Town Station every 15 minutes (fare: 1,020 yen). You'll reach the destination in about one hour. It is also possible to travel by bus from Osaka Station to Rinku Premium Outlets via Hotel New Hankyu and Kansai Airport Terminal 1; the bus ride takes about one hour and a half.

Is Kobe Sanda Premium Outlet worth it?

Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets in Kobe offers a diverse selection of domestic and international brands at discounted prices, making it a popular destination for bargain hunters and shoppers seeking quality goods at reduced rates. Set in the scenic Rokko Mountains, the outlet provides a picturesque backdrop and a relaxed atmosphere for a unique shopping experience. With convenient accessibility from Kobe and Osaka, various dining options, and seasonal sales and events, Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets caters to shoppers looking for a day of discounted shopping in a beautiful setting with added amenities for comfort and enjoyment.

How do I get to Rinku premium outlet using JR Pass?

To reach Rinku Premium Outlets using a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), take the Haruka limited express train from major JR stations like Kyoto, Shin-Osaka, or Tennoji bound for Kansai Airport. Alight at Rinku Town Station, a stop on the Haruka line, which is adjacent to the shopping mall. Follow signs to exit the station and walk to Rinku Premium Outlets, located conveniently close to the station. Utilizing the JR Pass for the Haruka train provides a cost-effective and straightforward way to access the shopping destination without additional transportation expenses.

Does Haruka stop at Rinku Town?

Yes, the Haruka limited express train in Japan does stop at Rinku Town Station. Rinku Town Station is a key stop on the Haruka line, which connects Kansai International Airport (KIX) to major destinations like Kyoto and Shin-Osaka. Rinku Town Station is convenient for travelers heading to the Rinku Premium Outlets shopping mall, containing a variety of stores and dining options. The Haruka train service provides a direct and efficient transportation option for passengers traveling between Kansai International Airport and various destinations in the Kansai region.

Should you haggle in Japan?

In Japan, haggling is not a common practice, especially in retail stores and formal settings. Prices are typically fixed, and attempting to negotiate may be viewed as impolite. While haggling may be more accepted in flea markets or certain tourist areas, it's crucial to approach any bargaining with respect and cultural sensitivity. Maintaining polite communication and understanding the context can help navigate situations where haggling is a possibility in Japan.

Enjoy Shopping in Osaka and Kyoto!

During your Kansai travels, please visit many shopping streets filled with Osaka residents' warmth and generous hospitality. But, more importantly, stop in some of the outlets and shopping malls to enjoy shopping at highly reasonable prices.

For overseas visitors, please take full advantage of the duty-free services and purchase discounted items!

Main image courtesy of Pixta

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MATCHA

This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.

more
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