About Shinsekai: A Detailed History and Overview

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Shinsekai
2. History of Shinsekai
3. Recommended Spots in Shinsekai
   
4. Must-Try Foods in Shinsekai

Introduction

Shinsekai, located in Osaka's Naniwa Ward, is a historic entertainment district where diverse cultures and entertainment options converge, creating a fascinating area to explore. Since its inception in 1912, iconic landmarks like Tsutenkaku Tower and Janjan Yokocho Alley have continued to captivate visitors. This article delves into the history, highlights, and delicious food offerings of Shinsekai.

Known for its unique atmosphere and rich culinary scene, Shinsekai is beloved by many tourists. From its historical background to the latest attractions, this guide provides comprehensive information to help you fully enjoy the charm of Shinsekai. Use this article as a reference before your visit to experience the diverse allure of Shinsekai.

1. Overview of Shinsekai

Shinsekai, located in the Ebisuhigashi area of Osaka's Naniwa Ward, is a historic entertainment district that emerged in 1912 with the opening of the original Tsutenkaku Tower and the Luna Park amusement park. At its inception, Shinsekai was characterized by an urban landscape inspired by Paris and New York, evolving as a modern entertainment district.

At the heart of Shinsekai stands Tsutenkaku Tower, a symbol of Osaka. Surrounding it is the well-known Janjan Yokocho Alley, a shopping street that retains a retro atmosphere reminiscent of its former glory days, capturing the early Showa era's charm. Radiating from Tsutenkaku, the streets are lined with traditional eateries and entertainment facilities, offering visitors a nostalgic experience.

Kushikatsu, a type of deep-fried skewer, is particularly famous in Shinsekai. Numerous kushikatsu restaurants line the streets, offering skewers with a crispy coating and rich flavor, making it a must-try delicacy for tourists. These establishments exude a casual and welcoming ambiance, appealing to both locals and visitors.

Additionally, Shinsekai boasts numerous facilities for enjoying shogi (Japanese chess). The "Janjan Yokocho Shogi Club" is particularly notable, attracting local shogi enthusiasts who enjoy friendly matches in a relaxed setting. These shogi clubs are a cultural highlight of Shinsekai, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Post-war reconstruction transformed Shinsekai into a popular recreational area for many citizens, and it continues to be a beloved tourist destination today. The district's streetscape blends historical buildings with modern amenities, offering a diverse range of attractions that captivate a wide array of visitors.

2. History of Shinsekai

■ 1910s

Shinsekai was established in 1912. Located in the southern part of Osaka City, this area began with the opening of two major attractions: Tsutenkaku Tower and Luna Park. Tsutenkaku was modeled after the Eiffel Tower, while Luna Park served as an amusement park, drawing numerous visitors. During this time, Shinsekai was referred to as "New Paris" or "Second Paris," reflecting its attempt to emulate modern urban landscapes.

■ 1920s

In 1923, Luna Park closed, but the area's appeal persisted. Tsutenkaku continued to be a significant symbol. However, the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 impacted Shinsekai, necessitating reconstruction. The 1920s saw Shinsekai bustling with theaters and entertainment facilities.

■ 1940s

On January 16, 1943, the original Tsutenkaku was damaged by a fire that started in the Ohashi Theater at its base, spreading to the tower itself. During World War II, Japan faced a shortage of metal resources, and in February 1943, Tsutenkaku was dismantled for its approximately 300 tons of steel. By April, the tower was completely dismantled, marking a period of significant hardship for Shinsekai.

■ 1950s

Post-war, Shinsekai began to show signs of revival. In 1956, the second Tsutenkaku Tower was completed, once again becoming a symbol of the area. The post-war recovery period saw the reopening of numerous eateries and entertainment venues, restoring Shinsekai's vibrancy.

■ 1970s to 1990s

The 1970 Osaka Expo, symbolizing Japan's industrial progress and future aspirations, brought economic benefits to Osaka, positively impacting Shinsekai. The area saw a surge of visitors, with Janjan Yokocho and other shopping streets bustling with activity. However, the 1990s brought the collapse of Japan's economic bubble, affecting the area. Despite this, Shinsekai maintained its unique charm, though issues of safety and public order, particularly at night, became concerns.

■ 2000s Onwards

Entering the 2000s, Shinsekai underwent a resurgence as a tourist destination. With regional redevelopment, many eateries and entertainment spots gained renewed attention. Kushikatsu, in particular, became widely recognized as a signature dish of Shinsekai. The area developed numerous facilities and services for tourists, attracting visitors both domestically and internationally. Tsutenkaku and its surrounding areas became focal points for tourists, bringing local food culture and unique charm back into the spotlight.

Over its long history, Shinsekai has undergone many changes, continuously standing as a central hub of Osaka's culture and entertainment. Iconic landmarks like Tsutenkaku, diverse culinary offerings, and the warmth of the local people contribute to Shinsekai's enduring appeal.

3. Highlights of Shinsekai

■ Janjan Yokocho Alley

Janjan Yokocho Alley, also known as Nanyo-dori Shopping Street, stretches approximately 180 meters from Dobutsuen-mae Station to Tsutenkaku Tower. The alley gets its name from the sound of shamisen and taiko drums, which resonated from the shops after World War II. It is home to numerous casual dining establishments, including the famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) shops, yakiniku (grilled meat), sushi, udon, and standing bars. The alley also features popular go and shogi clubs, which are enjoyable spots for both playing and watching these traditional Japanese games.

■ Kasuga Entertainment Hall

Located in Janjan Yokocho Alley, Kasuga Entertainment Hall is a historic game center that has been in operation since around 1959. Originally a venue for movies and theater, it has since been transformed into a retro game center, offering visitors a fun and nostalgic experience. The hall features a variety of games, from video games and medal games to electro-mechanical games. The retro atmosphere, reminiscent of the Showa era, attracts both tourists and locals. Popular games include Whac-A-Mole, Time Crisis, and various claw machines.

■ Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku Tower is the symbol of Shinsekai and a prominent Osaka landmark. The original tower, constructed in 1912, combined elements of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, standing about 75 meters tall, making it the tallest structure in the Orient at the time. The name "Tsutenkaku" means "tower reaching heaven," coined by the Confucian scholar Nankoku Fujisawa. The original tower was dismantled in 1943 due to fire damage and wartime metal requisitioning. The current tower, rebuilt in 1956, stands 108 meters tall and was designed by Tachu Naito, known for designing the Nagoya TV Tower and the Sapporo TV Tower. The new tower includes exhibition spaces, an entrance gate on the lower floors, and an observation deck offering 360-degree views of Osaka. The observation deck also houses the statue of Billiken, the "God of Happiness," whose feet visitors rub for good luck.

■ Billiken Statue

Billiken, known as the "God of Happiness," is one of the symbols of Shinsekai. Designed in 1908 by American artist Florence Pretz, Billiken was modeled after a figure she saw in a dream. The statue gained popularity in the United States and arrived in Japan in 1909. In Osaka, Billiken is particularly famous at Tsutenkaku Tower. The first Billiken statue was placed in the White Tower of Luna Park in 1912. After the park closed in 1923, the statue went missing. In 1979, a second Billiken statue was installed on the third floor of Tsutenkaku Tower to commemorate the revitalization of Shinsekai. The current third Billiken statue, introduced in 2012, stands taller and is believed to bring good fortune to those who rub its feet.

■ Shinsekai Main Street Shopping Association W Market

The Shinsekai Main Street Shopping Association W Market is a major shopping street in Shinsekai, lined with numerous shops and restaurants. This area offers a blend of local culinary culture and unique charm, making it an attractive spot for tourists. Every Sunday, a vibrant market event features various vendors selling goods such as clothing, food, and crafts, creating a lively flea market atmosphere. A unique aspect of this market is the absence of price tags, allowing visitors to negotiate directly with shop owners. Two main events occur here: the "Shinsekai Night Market" on Saturday nights and the "Bright Black Market" on Sunday afternoons, both popular with tourists.

These attractions highlight the unique and diverse charm of Shinsekai, blending history, culture, and modern entertainment to create an unforgettable experience for visitors.

4. Recommended Gourmet in Shinsekai

Shinsekai offers a variety of delicious foods beyond the famous dishes listed here, making it an ideal place for food tours and sightseeing. Be sure to try the unique dishes each restaurant offers.

■ Kushikatsu

When it comes to Shinsekai, kushikatsu is undoubtedly the most famous dish. These deep-fried skewers have a crispy coating and a rich flavor, making them a favorite among visitors. The rule of "no double-dipping" in the sauce is well-known, ensuring the first dip provides ample flavor. Popular establishments include "Yaekatsu" and "Daruma," where fresh ingredients are used to create delectable kushikatsu.

■ Doteyaki

Doteyaki, a dish made from beef tendon simmered in miso, is another popular delicacy in Shinsekai. At the izakaya "Nonkiya," doteyaki is offered at a reasonable price of 100 yen per skewer, known for its tender texture and rich flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a cold drink, making it a must-try.

■ Takoyaki

Osaka's iconic takoyaki can also be enjoyed in Shinsekai. These octopus-filled balls have a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, making them a hit with tourists. Each shop has its own recipe, offering a range of flavors from simple sauce to mayonnaise and aonori (dried seaweed) toppings.

■ Croquettes

"Sakamoto Meat Shop" offers croquettes that are a recommended snack for those strolling through Shinsekai. Priced at 80 yen each, these croquettes feature sweet and fluffy potatoes that are delicious even without sauce.

■ Stew Udon

At "Azuma" in Janjan Yokocho Alley, stew udon is a popular dish. This hearty meal features thick udon noodles in a stew-like broth, packed with plenty of ingredients. Loved more by locals than tourists, it is a hidden gem in the area.

Conclusion

Shinsekai's unique atmosphere and warm locals make it an inviting place for first-time visitors. By exploring its historical and cultural attractions while savoring the local cuisine, you will experience the true charm of Shinsekai.

As you explore Shinsekai, you will discover the energetic and vibrant side of Osaka, creating unforgettable memories. We hope this guide helps you navigate your visit to Shinsekai and enhances your travel experience.