The architecture has so much character. No matter where you point your camera, it feels very retro-Japanese. There are quite a few tourists, but the atmosphere still feels pretty laid-back.
Otaru Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street | Review by Nelson Char
Other Reviews by Nelson Char
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Osaka Kizu Wholesale Market
One of the largest privately-operated regional wholesale markets in Japan, Osaka Kizu Wholesale Market draws droves of professional chefs seeking top-quality ingredients. With a history spanning nearly 300 years, the market originated in the Edo period as a “nodachi-uri” (open-air trade market) where people brought their goods to sell.
Coming early in the morning really makes a difference. The seafood all looked super fresh, and the sashimi colors were insanely beautiful.
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Tsutenkaku Tower
A steel tower which looks like the Eiffel Tower and 75 meters high was built In 1912, on top of a building which was the motif of the Arc de Triomphe, and named “Tsutenkaku” meaning “A building reaching the heaven'' by Nangaku Fujisawa, a Confucian in the early Meiji period. After being broken down due to a fire, citizens lobbied for rebuilding and the current 2nd Tsutenkaku was built in 1956.
As soon as you get to Shinsekai, you’ll spot Tsutenkaku right away—it’s so easy to recognize. Going up to the observation deck was decent, but honestly the main thing is shopping and wandering around down below.
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Kuromon Market
Kuromon Market in Minami, the heart of Osaka, is said to have started around 1822 and was approved as an official market by Osaka Prefecture in 1902. The market got the name “Kuromon Market (Black gate market)” because the gate to Enmyoji Temple near the market was black. Since then, it has been loved as Osaka’s favorite kitchen, and it has become a popular tourist attraction these days.
Prices are kind of tourist-area pricing—not cheap. But I still end up buying sometimes. The wagyu, uni, and grilled scallops are seriously irresistible, and my self-control goes out the window fast.
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