Osaka Half Day Itinerary (Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku)

It is the most popular shrine in Osaka and is affectionately called Sumiyossan by the locals. See the bright vermilion Taiko Bridge and the main shrine which has been designated as a National Treasure. If you have time, a walk through Sumiyoshi Park is also recommended.

Head for Shinsekai, the area with the atmosphere of the good old days with working-class shops and restaurants all lined up. There is a row of places specializing in the Osaka dish of kushikatsu and you can taste some of that Osakan down-home cooking such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Walk over to Tsutenkaku, the symbol of Shinsekai. The tower that was built by the same man behind Tokyo Tower. It cannot be said to be an ultra-high building but you can enjoy its retro appearance and its good sense of distance for Osaka. Don’t forget to greet the famous Billiken statue and stroke its feet to earn good luck.