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.
Tsutenkaku Tower | 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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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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Tower of Osaka Castle
Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), began construction of the tower of Osaka Castle in 1583 and completed it in 1585. The castle was later destroyed during the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） in 1615, but was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1626. However, the castle keep was destroyed by lightning in 1665. In 1931, the castle tower of the Toyotomi period was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens.
The castle keep really stands out—you can spot it from far away. It totally has that “yep, I’ve been to Osaka” vibe.
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