7 Great Stores To Explore on Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, Osaka

Lovers of the written word shouldn’t pass up this historic second-hand book shop. The compact space is packed with books both old and new featuring diverse subjects and genres. Among the more interesting finds here are old hand-drawn maps from the turn of the last century, Playboy magazines from a time before Photoshop and travel guides from the ’80s – there’s also a modest selection of English-language books. Though tiny, it’s easy to lose yourself in the shelves of Tengyu Bookstore for hours.

Simple House is an Osaka-based interior design company with over 30 years of history. Their elegant flagship store in Tenjinbashisuji sticks out among the more modest storefronts surrounding it. There are actually two locations just across from each other, both selling chic furniture and other home goods. Here you’ll find Scandi-inspired lights, vintage pieces and fabrics for DIY projects.

Bottle OFF is a friendly, neighbourhood liquor store with a wide selection of spirits. They specialise in whiskey, sake and wine, but also stock all kinds of booze. Bottle OFF is perfect for finding souvenirs or stocking up for a fun night out. With affordable prices, regular sales, helpful staff and rare bottles for sale, Bottle OFF has everything that characterises this beloved district.

Daiso is one of the few chain stores on Tenjinbashisuji, but arguably one of the best. Daiso is one of Japan’s famous 100-yen shops, the country’s take on the American dollar store. Everything is 100 yen (£0.70) and absolutely adorable. All the necessities are here – office supplies, toiletries, food, fashion accessories – and are often brightly coloured or covered in glitter. Daiso caters to a range of shoppers’ needs, be it stocking up on souvenirs or furnishing an entire flat.

Tenma Garden is a small shopping centre within the massive arcade that houses four unique shops: T-Green’s, a relaxing café and restaurant; Manmaru, a restaurant specialising in Osaka kushikatsu, which are basically skewers of fried meat or vegetables; Kimono Style, where you can rent a modern kimono to wear while walking along the shopping street; and Health Factory Te-A-Te, a gym with massage services, perfect for after walking up and down the shotengai all day.