It was still a tour day in Osaka for those who booked the optional excursions, but Jack and I decided to explore on our own. Took the train to Nakazakicho.
But first Brunch…
I’d read about this place called Nakazakicho, Osaka’s bohemian soul. It is just the place for me…narrow lanes, old wooden houses turned into vintage shops, tiny art galleries, and quirky cafés.
It’s a place that keeps on giving. It was calm, creative, and a little nostalgic… perfect for slow wandering and small discoveries.
Sadly it’s time to move on. And next in the agenda is to take the train to Umeda. We happened to pass by this tiny shrine.
Walked our way to the Umeda Building and of course my attention getting caught by cute stuff.
The Umeda Sky Building is made up of two sleek 40-storey towers, dramatically linked at the top by glass bridges, with escalators and elevators carrying you high above the city. It’s a striking, futuristic piece of architecture—especially when you find yourself suspended between the towers.
Just a heads-up though: the queue for the lift can be massive.
Took the taxi from Umeda and made our way to Shinsekai. Explored the buzzing market streets and the tower which were so alive in lights. The neon glow, chatter, and familiar street food smells gave the area a charming, retro energy that felt uniquely Osaka.
And this was dinner.
I am linking this to Jo’s Monday Walk
It had been another long and tiring day but who cares. It was so much fun!
This was in 11 November 2025.
Thank you, Teresa, for let me, and all your followers, join you on your explorations. Your stories and especially your photos are a delight. Enjoyable and inspiring. Happy New Year!
Thanks Ludwig, glad to hear your nice comment.
You’re good at knowing what you want to see and making your own way there, Teresa. Guided tours are useful but a bit limiting. More adventures to come, hon! Many thanks xx
Thanks Jo. A bit of effort goes a long way. A lot cheaper too than booking a day trip, which was the original plan.
Gotta tell you that I always enjoy scrolling through your photos. They make me smile and leave me hungry. 😉
That comment makes my heart feel happy, Pepper. Have a great day❤️
Yay! Hope you have a wonderful day as well. 😉
Lovely gallery of sights and taste and smell, Teresa! Happy New Year.
Happy New Year too Miriam. Glad to share my adventures with you.
Nakazakicho, Osaka’s bohemian soul is a place I would love to explore. We’re likely to explore by ourselves rather than a group. Japan is one country I would return to. Lovely post.
Thanks Suzanne, same here, would like to return one day as well. Have a great day!
It’s great when a group tour also gives you time to explore alone and it seems to have been a great option for you here. Nakazakicho looks wonderful for slow wanderings, nothing like the places we visited in Osaka!
That’s the reason why I chose this tour. Some simple on your own days in between tourist days. Thanks Sarah ❤️
What a lively day!
Yes it was. Thanks I.J.