Very few areas like Nishinari exist, where the architecture of Showa and Taisho periods contrasts the bright and famous tourist spots of Tennoji or Shinsekai.

Join us on our tour of arguably deepest, least touristy parts of Osaka and we will take you through Japan you’ve never seen before.

Before venturing into Nishinari we will first start with Shinsekai. It is famous for the Tsutenkaku tower, ever-present Billiken shrines, Kushi-katsu fried skewers and much more.

Despite its turbulent history it is immensely popular with foreign tourists, so enjoy a bit of “the normal” before we head out into Nishinari.

Let’s have a taste of fried skewers at JanJan-Yokocho, where the stores fiercely compete for the title of the best!

We will visit “a aistrict”, without a doubt the deepest spot in Nishinari. Venture inside this area hidden from the sight of tourists and learn about the sad, dark history as well the harsh present-day reality and societal problems plaguing Japan.

As we leave the red light district behind us we head out to the Airin-Chiku area. In the past as well as today the area is known as refuge for day workers, the destitute and those down on their luck. Flashy wall art breaks up the doom and gloom.