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Hidden Osaka: Shrines, Markets & Retro Streets
Step away from the busy tourist areas and discover a more local side of Osaka.
We begin at Osaka Temmangu Shrine, a peaceful place loved by locals and connected to the city’s history. Then we walk through Tenjinbashisuji, the longest shopping street in Japan, filled with small shops and street food.
Finally, we explore Nakazaki-cho, a retro neighborhood that survived wartime destruction and is now home to cozy cafés and vintage stores.
Experience Osaka beyond the guidebooks.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- If your hotel is located outside Osaka city, we will meet at Minami-Morimachi Station of Osaka Metro.
Osaka Temmangu
Osaka Temmangu Shrine is a peaceful sanctuary loved by locals and often missed by tourists. Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, it has long been an important spiritual center for the people of Osaka.
While the shrine is famous for the Tenjin Festival, one of Japan’s top three festivals, most days it remains calm and quiet.
As we walk through the grounds, you’ll experience a more intimate side of Osaka and learn how this shrine shaped the surrounding community and market culture.
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street
Tenjinbashisuji is the longest shopping street in Japan, stretching over 2.6 kilometers. Unlike flashy tourist districts, this arcade reflects everyday life in Osaka.
As we stroll along, you’ll see family-run shops, traditional sweet stores, and small restaurants that have served the community for generations. If you wish, we can also try light local snacks such as freshly fried croquettes or taiyaki (fish-shaped waffle) along the way.
The street began as a temple town for Osaka Temmangu Shrine and remains a lively part of local life today.
Nakazaki-cho
Nakazaki-cho is a charming neighborhood that feels worlds away from nearby Umeda’s skyscrapers. Unlike much of central Osaka, this area survived wartime destruction and large-scale redevelopment, allowing its narrow streets and old wooden houses to remain.
Today, these retro buildings are home to independent cafés, vintage shops, and small galleries run by local creatives. As we explore the quiet alleys, you’ll experience a relaxed atmosphere and discover a side of Osaka that blends history, nostalgia, and modern creativity.
Local Break
At the end of the tour, we can relax at a cozy café in Nakazakicho or visit a local izakaya in the Tenma area. This is a great chance to enjoy local flavors and chat like locals.
Please note that food and drinks are not included in the tour price.
Ending Point
Nakazaki-cho Station
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Private guide fee
Food
Drinks
Transportation (if needed)
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* Food & drinks are NOT included in the tour price.
* The schedule may vary depending on crowd levels.
Important message from the supplier
I mainly work on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), but Friday may be available upon request.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Yuji M.
Hi! I'm a certified guide in Osaka and your new local buddy. Let’s discover the city’s famous sights and hidden gems together. You’ll laugh, learn, and by the end, maybe even fall a little in love with Osaka.
Reviews
Joseph M.
“Wonderfully Friendly Guide”
We had a lovely afternoon walking through Nakazakicho and Tenma with Yuji. He is an incredibly friendly, pleasant, and enthusiastic guide who clearly enjoys sharing Osaka with visitors. He navigated the areas perfectly, showed us charming hidden spots, and answered all our questions helpfully and clearly.
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Yuji M.
Thank you so much for your warm comment, Joseph. It was a real pleasure guiding you around in the Nakazakicho neighborhood and I’m glad to know you enjoyed it. I also had a wonderful time with you and your family. I would be more than happy if I became a part of your great memories of Japan.
$183/ per group
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Osaka JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike
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Osaka Gourmet City, feasts for Eyes & Mouth
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The Visit to the Memorial Spots in Summer War of Osaka
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Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, the Largest Burial Mounds in Japan
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