Otaku Paradise in Osaka - A Solo Traveller's Dream
Osaka beckons, otaku adventurers! If you're planning a solo trip to Japan, and are an otaku (meaning: a lover of manga, anime, nerd, figurines) you absolutely cannot miss stopping by Osaka's Nipponbashi, Den Den Town, also known as otaku town, a neon-lit electric place that's overflowing with anime merch, manga stores, and figurine treasure troves. Here, you can chat with fellow fans about your favourite shows or cosplay your heart out and blend into the vibrant enthusiastic scene, dive into the Naruto theme park, and spend a day getting lost in Universal Studio Japan's vast anime themed rides. Osaka promises an unforgettable solo adventure for any anime lover. Read on to know exactly how.
Take an Osaka Otaku Tour
This tour is a must when in Osaka. Nipponbashi Den Den Town, or Otaku town, is a neon-lit wonderland for anime and manga lovers, where you can find many games, computers, manga, anime shops and maid cafes. Here, towering buildings are plastered with colourful characters, and streets overflow with figurine treasure troves, shelves upon shelves of manga, and the latest anime merchandise.
Whether you cosplay your favourite character or simply browse, the energy is infectious. Nipponbashi offers an unforgettable adventure for any otaku. Later, this local-guided tour also takes you to Kuromon market for some delicious Osaka specialties, shopping in America Mura, and ends at Dotonbori's most famous restaurant, Torikizoku, where you can eat and drink Osaka delicacies at reasonable prices.
Embark on a 2-Hour Anime Figure Walking Tour in Osaka
Secure your favourite anime figures from Dragon Ball, One Piece and more, from the six anime figure shops at Nipponbashi (a place that is the equivalent of Tokyo's Akihabara for anime, manga lovers and otakus) that you will visit on this tour. If you wish to immerse yourself into Osaka's anime and manga scene, this 2-hour guided tour of Nipponbashi and Otaku Road is a must. You will navigate the maze of shops overflowing with otaku goodies, from figurine havens to hidden gem stores.
Your expert guide will take you to the best anime figure shops within two hours, ensuring you see a huge variety and have a chance to find figures from popular series like Dragon Ball or One Piece, all at great prices. And if you need help bargaining or translating Japanese descriptions, your guide has got you covered. On this tour, you're guaranteed to find the perfect figure to take home.
Unleash Your Inner Ninja
Unleash your inner ninja at the world's biggest Naruto theme park, Shinobi-zato. This incredible park, located within the stunning '2-D Forest' (Nijigen No Mori) on Awajishima Island, is easily accessible with a roundtrip bus service from Osaka or Kobe.
On this tour, step into a real-life anime world filled with interactive activities inspired by your favourite characters from Japanese manga, gaming and anime. Follow themed music, maps and missions to complete your own unique adventure!
Once you buy this convenient ticket, it includes a direct bus transportation and park entry, making it the perfect way to experience the magic of Naruto and Boruto - Naruto Next Generations. Whether you're a dedicated fan or just curious about anime, this will be an unforgettable experience for you.
Do you want to delve deeper into channelling your inner ninja? You very well can at Ninja-Do! Learn the secrets of the shinobi with experiences like walking lessons, sword techniques, and even shuriken throwing (ninja stars). Don a traditional ninja costume and take photos to commemorate your transformation. Ninja-Do offers a fun and unique way to experience Japanese history and culture. After your training, explore the nearby attractions like the lively Shin Sekai district or snap a photo next to Abeno Harukas, Japan's tallest commercial building.
Anime Wonderland: Den Den Town, Otaku Street, Maid Cafe, Food Walk
Dive into Japanese pop culture with this special 4-hour Otaku tour. Explore hidden gems and iconic spots dedicated to anime, figures, and all things kawaii or cute. The adventure starts at Dōgu-ya Street, a treasure trove of Japanese tools and knives. Then, it's on to Ota-Street and Den Den Town, where you can snap pics and snag cool merchandise inspired by anime, Gundam robots and adorable kawaii culture. On this tour, you also experience a quirky Maid Cafe, slurp down delicious instant noodles at a local shop, and find peace at a hidden temple.
Later, when you are ready for some food, you will be guided to Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku, that offer a culinary adventure with Kushikatsu (fried skewers), Takoyaki octopus balls, fresh sushi, and a variety of sake to try. After this, test your skills with traditional target shooting for a fun twist.
The tour wraps up with a memorable photo opportunity near the Osaka Monument and the majestic Harukas Tower.
Want to explore more? Upgrade your tour to 5 hours and visit the historic Shitenno-ji Temple, a Buddhist marvel dating back to 593 AD.
Try Out the Anime Rides and Experiences at Universal Studios Japan
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Universal Studios Japan is the place to be. And the best hack to enjoy the park is the totally value-for-money Express Pass. With this pass, you can wave goodbye to those long lines and enjoy priority access to all the hottest rides and attractions.
Picture this: racing through Mario Kart Koopa's Challenge, soaring alongside Yoshi, exploring the wonders of Hogwarts Castle in The Forbidden Journey, and joining Gru's Minions in Despicable Me Minion Mayhem—all with little to no waiting time!
After all, who wants to waste precious holiday time standing in line? Just keep in mind that if you decide to buy the Express Pass today, you’ll need to grab a Universal Studios Japan ticket separately as well.
Where Otaku Dreams Come True…
As the neon lights of Nipponbashi Den Den Town dim, your backpack will turn into a giant sack filled with treasures like a limited-edition figurine, a quirky manga you won't be able to find at home and a bag overflowing with candy emblazoned with your favourite anime characters, and maybe a lot more!
Exhausted but exhilarated, you will want to wander back to the Dotonbori riverside, to replay the day's adventures in your mind. Even as a solo traveller, Nipponbashi will embrace you with its infectious energy and endless supply of otaku delights. It is a place where characters came alive, fellow fans bond over shared passions and the thrill of the otaku hunt never fades. With Pelago by Singapore's fun recommendations, this electric town in Osaka leaves you with a renewed appreciation for Japanese pop culture and a suitcase full of memories.
Commonly Asked Questions
Where is the nerd area in Osaka?
Osaka's Nipponbashi district, also known as Den Den Town. It's a haven for electronics, anime, manga, video games, and all things nerdy.
What is Osaka's version of Akihabara?
Osaka's answer to Akihabara in Tokyo is Nipponbashi district.
Does Osaka have anime stores?
Yes, Osaka's famous electric and anime district called Nipponbashi Den Den Town or Otaku town, is filled with anime stores.
Is Nipponbashi good for solo travelers?
Absolutely! The vibrant atmosphere and friendly shopkeepers make Nipponbashi a welcoming place for solo explorers. You can browse at your own pace, admire the displays, and even strike up conversations with other fans you meet.
How do I get to Nipponbashi?
Nipponbashi is conveniently located near several stations. You can take the Sennichimae Line or Sakaisuji Line on the Osaka City Subway and get off at Nipponbashi Station. It's also easily accessible by bus from other areas of Osaka.