New Tourism ーNamba, Osakaー | Airbnb
A new wave of creativity in Namba, Osaka
Namba has always been one of Osaka’s most vibrant districts, renowned as a hub for shopping, eating and entertainment for centuries. And while the traditions and culture of Osaka remain strong, this trendsetting area has reinvented itself once more.
About Namba
Fast facts
Where is Namba?
Namba is located in the Minami district of Osaka, Japan. It is home to many well-known tourist attractions and its streets have a lively atmosphere, typical of Osaka. It is also known as Japan's largest downtown area and is popular with visitors from all over the world.
What are the must-sees?
- Dotonbori: a unique area that is fun to explore, where you can marvel at the giant mechanical crab and octopus displays.
- Shinsaibashi: explore Midosuji Street, which connects Osaka's Minami and Kita areas, and America-mura, a popular shopping area for young people.
- Sennichimae: visit the Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street for Japanese cooking utensils, or see a comedy show or play at one of the many theaters here, such as the Namba Grand Kagetsu.
What is the history of Namba?
Namba has been known since the Edo period as a place of theater and commerce and the "kitchen of the nation", a cosmopolitan area attracting many visitors and diverse influences. In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the Sennichimae area developed into a busy shopping area with show booths and teahouses. Namba has also long been a transportation hub, serving as one of Osaka City's leading rail terminals since 1885 when Namba Station was opened.
Where does Namba get its name?
In ancient times, Namba was a sea called Kawachi Bay. However, over a long period of time, sediment flowed into the area, and in the early Yayoi period it was transformed into a lake. It is thought that the name Namba, for which the characters mean difficult wave, was derived from this time. However, the exact origin is still unclear, as some believe the name was derived from the place name Naniwa, which is mentioned in Japan's oldest history book, Kojiki.
Six Namba locals leading the way
Namba is a city with a long history, but one that is constantly changing. Through interviews with six people who have created products and experiences that combine Namba's unique traditions and culture with social trends, this section unravels the "new tourism" in Namba.
Part 1: Tadashi Senda, Chairman of the Board of the Osaka City Shopping Streets Association
Meet the custodian of an old shopping street, with plans to bring it into virtual reality.
Part 3: Yasuo and Aiko Toyoda, Leaders of the Osaka Homesharing Club (Airbnb Hosts)
Meet the Osaka locals who want to help you live like one, too.
Part 4: Kazuo Hisada, President and Representative Director of 9 Co., Ltd.
A project to restore old Japanese houses, and open them to guests.
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Part 5: Masatsugu Okamoto, Managing Director, Fukujyudo Hidenobu Corp
Discover a modern spin on traditional Japanese confectionery.
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Part 6: Masato and Azusa Koide, Directors, Atelier M/A
A husband-and-wife team changing the future of fashion from Osaka.
Read articleNamba in pictures
Namba in pictures
Travel to Osaka and Namba
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A unique experience in Osaka
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Namba sightseeing tips
Let's follow the example of those at the center of Namba's new approach and ensure our visit has a positive impact on Namba's society, economy, community, and environment.
Shop for souvenirs
Support the shopping streets loved by locals and meet the friendly shopkeepers.
Stay at a private home
Stay in a Japanese home to experience life as a local and get a taste of daily life in Osaka.
Shop for one-of-a-kind vintage clothing
Do your bit for sustainable fashion while shopping for vintage clothing.
Get around without a car
Enjoy eco-friendly sightseeing by using the bike share scheme, and taking your bike on trains and buses.
Collaborative project between Airbnb and the Osaka City Shopping Streets Association
The Osaka City Shopping Streets Association was founded in 1941 to promote the economy and the stability of Osakans' consumer lifestyles. It has developed into one of the nation's leading business association organizations for the development of shopping districts and the improvement of the status of merchants.