Nakazakicyo – Nostalgic Ambiance in Japan

While the major tourist spots in Osaka are bustling and lively, have you ever felt like exploring a more unique and local area that offers a different experience from the image of Osaka with its towering buildings?

Nakazakicho is unlike any other place in Osaka. This area is full of charming spots. There are cafes and shops renovated from old Japanese style houses. Nakazakicho retains the old charm of Osaka while hosting unique shops and cafes, making it a hidden gem. It’s within walking distance from the bustling Umeda area, so let’s discover the attractions of Nakazakicho.

Once you pass under the JR overpass, you’ll find yourself in Nakazakicho. Old houses, known as “kominka,” are traditional Japanese homes built long ago. They are often renovated to fit modern lifestyles and are used as cafes, restaurants, or lodgings. Let’s take a walk through Nakazakicho and enjoy its unique atmosphere.

Exploring Nakazakicho!

In the heart of Nakazakicho stands this impressive two-story building, which is a hair salon. You can feel the traditional Japanese atmosphere in the buildings with tiled roofs. Nakazakicho has many stylish hair salons. Getting your hair cut in such a fashionable neighborhood will make you feel stylish too.

The alleys are labyrinthine, almost like a maze. No matter which alley you wander into, you’ll always find something interesting. You can also encounter ceramic tanuki(raccoon dog), which are considered lucky charms.

Nakazakicho is a small area, but there are numerous cafes and restaurants. This unique building covered in ivy is also a cafe. It resembles the world of Studio Ghibli, with an atmosphere that feels like Totoro might appear at any moment. Other types of cafes include classic tea rooms, cafes surrounded by old books, cafes where you can interact with animals, and “Instagrammable” cafes loved by Japanese youth. Known as a fiercely competitive area for cafes, each shop is full of character.

It’s truly a delightful dilemma to decide which cafe to enter. With so many charming options, today I was guided by inspiration and came to Yatt Nakazakicho. The softly lit, atmospheric interior is very calming. I ordered a light roast Americano. The coffee had a strong acidity with a refreshing aftertaste. After taking a breather, I’m ready to continue my stroll.

Between the narrow alleys nestled among old houses, there’s a shrine called Hakuryu Okami. It’s dedicated to the white snake deity. It was hidden away, and I almost missed it. Although it’s a very small shrine, it has long protected Nakazakicho and is cherished by the local people as a place of power and blessing.

There are also public baths, called Sento in Japanese. These small public baths provide a place to relax and relieve fatigue. While public baths were once common as most households didn’t have their own baths, the number of these small public baths has drastically decreased nowadays. These remaining baths are a precious part of the community.

I discovered two mannequins striking yoga poses. Following the arrow, I found a vintage shop. Nakazakicho has several vintage shops. Inside, you’ll find rows of clothes and sundries, each with a unique charm. You might stumble upon a hidden gem.

In Nakazakicho, the nostalgic streets lined with tiled roofs and old traditional houses coexist harmoniously with vibrant wall art. It’s a delightful blend of the old and the new, making it a perfect place to explore and find photo-worthy murals.

From cozy cafes and vintage shops to serene shrines and artistic murals, this quaint neighborhood offers a unique blend of experiences. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic journey or a new adventure, Nakazakicho has something special for everyone. Come and explore the magic for yourself!