Strolling Between Light and Shadow: The Nostalgia and Trendiness of Tsutenkaku Shopping Street

#OsakaItinerary
Day 1
At dawn, I set foot on the stone-paved street of Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Arcade, filled with a strong Showa-era atmosphere that made me feel as if I had traveled back in time. On both sides of the shopping street were a dazzling array of small shops selling various Osaka specialty snacks and handicrafts. First, I stopped at a long-established shop specializing in kushikatsu, tasting freshly fried skewers that were crispy and juicy with every bite, bringing a wave of satisfaction. Next, I lingered in a nostalgic toy store, where the classic toys and collectibles on display evoked childhood memories. After lunch, I arrived at the end of the shopping street at Tsutenkaku Tower and climbed to the top to overlook the entire city. The sunset dyed the street a warm orange, and the neon lights of the shopping street lit up one by one, creating a vibrant night market atmosphere that was hard to leave.
Day 2
On the second day, I strolled again through Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Arcade, but this time chose to explore the other side of the street. The shopping street was especially quiet in the early morning, with sunlight shining on the wooden shop signs, giving a unique charm. I visited a long-established wagashi (Japanese sweets) shop and bought some Japanese desserts as souvenirs. Then, I entered an antique bookstore, flipping through the yellowed books on the shelves, feeling the passage of time. Lunch was at a restaurant specializing in okonomiyaki, where I watched the owner skillfully flip ingredients on the iron griddle; the aroma was irresistible, and the taste was exceptional. In the afternoon, I stumbled upon a street performance where music and dance intertwined into a moving melody, attracting many passersby to stop and enjoy. At dusk, I climbed Tsutenkaku Tower again to admire the brightly lit city nightscape, and at that moment, my heart was filled with a deep affection for Osaka.

Post by Angrybird11 | Mar 4, 2025