Osakan underworld tour with a local Criminologist
Joined 2025
For those looking for something a little different on their visit to Japan's greatest nocturnal city, away from the temples, anime, and tourist traps...
This walking tour focuses on the "Nishinari" district of Osaka. An area infamous for it's connections to the Japanese underworld, a rich history of political uprisings, the stage for the clash (and collusion) between police and crime gangs, and now undergoing unprecedented gentrification. Join me to explore this area before it is wiped away.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Dobutsuen-mae Station (動物園前駅)
- Meet on the street outside Exit 8.
Triangle Park (三角公園 – Sankaku Koen)
We visit a number of Yakuza field branches which were raided and shut down in 2020.
Airin Labour Welfare Center (あいりん総合センター)
The site of a number of clashes between the workers and police, with a description of the political and social conditions which led to these bloody uprisings.
Doya-gai (ドヤ街)
We visit the district of the forgotten blue-collar workers who built this city, and whom will soon be turfed-out.
Nishinari Police Station (西成警察署)
For a Criminologists' insight into the Japanese Criminal Justice system, and commentary on just how blurred the lines can get in modern Japan.
Tobita Shinchi (飛田新地)
We see the largest unofficial red light district in Western Japan, and learn about the incredible women who have fought for their survival throughout Japan's tumultuous history.
PHOTOGRAPHY STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
Dobutsuenmae nightlife promenade (動物園前商店街)
We finish in the Promenade where I can recommend the friendliest bars, most delicious "Okonomiyaki" (An Osakan specialty), Or return you to the meeting place.
Ending Point
Dobutsuenmae動物園前
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Walking tour, translation/interpretation, further guidance.
food, drink, transportation costs.
Tour Important Information
> This is a walking tour, so please wear comfortable shoes.
> This tour is not suitable for children.
> The area is mostly flat, but please make me aware of any mobility issues in advance.
>This is a real, lived-in area with real people. We ask that all guests are respectful of photography prohibitions on some stretches of the tour.
>All local customs and safety protocols will be described at the beginning of the tour.
> No food or drinks are included in the price of the tour.
Important message from the supplier
I will be working at the Osaka Expo as a bilingual Visitor Guide, so please book ASAP to avoid disappointment.
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
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Calum K.
A British chap who has lived in Japan for 6 years, learnt the language, and is now keen to share the joy of life in Japan. An outgoing, sociable, upbeat sort who can often be found cycling throughout the city or mingling at the Izakaya.
I offer private, customised tours based on the tastes of my guests. If you have no idea where to begin, rest assured and leave it to me!
$50/ per person
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