Etwas südlich des zentralen Geschäftsbezirks von Osaka liegt das Viertel Shinsaibashi. Das Shinsaibashi ist ein bedeutendes Einkaufszentrum und bietet alles für die Bedürfnisse der Käufer. Hier findet man alles, von den kleineren Geschäften, die lokale Produkte und Souvenirs verkaufen, bis hin zu einigen der größten Namen der Einzelhandelsbranche. Von H&M bis hin zu Cartier und Harry Winston - Shinsaibashi hat alles. Osakas bedeutendster Einkaufsbezirk, Shinsaibashi, ist eine Oase des Einzelhandels.
Ame-mura, short for "American Town"--is the pet name for the district west-southwest of Shinsaibashi Station. The district, as you would imagine from its name, supposedly recreates the feel of popular shopping districts in large American cities. In truth, besides the American brand-name goods and shops, it is very much Japanese, but certainly lively and fun. There are literally hundreds of shops and several large shopping centers. The district would, of course, not be complete without restaurants and bars, either. Given the makeup of the district, its denizens tend to be young and hip, though daylight hours see a more mixed crowd.
If you are a Pokemon fan, then a visit to Pokemon Center Osaka is a must. With over 2500 items of Pokemon merchandise, it is easy to get lost in this store. Go crazy with the awesome varieties of games, toys, cards and more. The store invites its guests for special events, such as birthday of Pokemon, where the kids can come play and have a nice time. Children and adults both are sure to have a great time.
Den Den Town is the largest shopping center for electrical and electronic goods in the Kansai region. You can find almost any type of home appliance here, along with components and parts. Your extensive choice includes products from all of Japan's leading manufacturers and even appliances with voltages other than for local use. Duty-free shops are also available for foreign residents and visitors. The main street stretches some 800 meters and is lined on both sides by shops. You might also want to check out the stores selling kitchen equipment and tableware on nearby Doguyasuji Street.
This is quite an unusual and exciting shopping mall. Besides having around 150 stores and restaurants, there is also a giant ferris wheel that rises far above the city and dips into the upper floors of the mall. The many stores include a number of Western brand-name outlets that you may have trouble finding elsewhere, as well as other unique stores. Even if you are not shopping, this is an interesting place to visit. And as it is located right beside Osaka station, it should not be out of your way.
Kuromon Ichiba Market has a history of more than 190 years. Here, you can find all kinds of fresh food, vegetables and fruits that are not only native but also exotic from other countries. With 170 shops selling fresh meat, poultry, eggs and vegetables, there is a lot to choose from. This food market also has some good eateries that serve delectable local cuisine. A tourist hot-spot that is popular with locals as well, a visit to this place will give you glimpse of the city's culinary heritage.
On the basement floor of an old, difficult-to-access building, Compufunk is one the best places in Osaka for personalized record-shopping services. Run by Nao-san (check out his regular DJ night at Rockets called KNUF), Compufunk gives its customers unrivaled opportunities to listen to scores of the latest American and European imports of techno, house, and electro. The shop specializes in the darker, more minimal forms of electronic funk, classic dubstep and techno music.
Conveniently located in the Ame-mura district of town, Glacier is a small store devoted to snowboard enthusiasts and also to those that are simply into the look. Besides snowboards, the store carries all related accessories such as carrying bags as well as a selection of brand-name clothing like Patagonia. The staff is well versed in their sport and will give straight-forward answers to whatever questions you may have. They can also give tips on good slopes in the area.
Patagonia is 'the' outdoor clothing store in Osaka. If you plan to do any climbing or hiking while you are in the area, this store will have the outfit for you. It does, however, have some nice casual wear as well. Whatever the case, you can expect high quality, sturdy clothing that will last you for years. Besides clothes for men, women and children, there are also some accessories like shoes, belts and bags. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that these items are imported, and may run higher than you are accustomed to paying.
Christian Louboutin is a world famous designer shoe brand and a must have for celebrities and fashionistas across the globe. Its red-soled shoes are an iconic brand statement of the label. Their pumps, heels, flats, wedges, sandals, sneakers and espadrilles are of stylish and of the highest quality. The same can be said of the luxury bags and wallets for women. Check out their selected list of cosmetics as well. A visit to this elegant store will truly be an impressive one.
Mary Quant is a well-recognized and well-trusted brand name in Japan. Its shops, in most major cities, attract women in search of high-quality cosmetics and expert advice. Besides its large selection of cosmetics, this branch, conveniently located in the Hep Five shopping center, also sells accessories and women's fashion items. During gift-giving times, it is hardly unusual to find men in the store, taking suggestions from staff on appropriate gift items.
The theme of this store is very clear. The merchandise draws its inspiration from characters in the world-famous Peanuts comic strip and cartoon, most notably, from Snoopy of course. The store itself is enormous; the largest on its floor of the Hep Five shopping center; and carries too many miscellaneous items to list beyond its selection of clothing and other wearables. And while the store is generally geared toward kids, you will still find an abundance of teenage girls, and even young adults looking for good gift ideas.