Category: Shopping

  • A Must-Visit: Time Out Market Osaka & Green Plaza

    A Must-Visit: Time Out Market Osaka & Green Plaza

    If you love good food, great spaces, and the energy of Osaka, Time Out Market and Green Plaza should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for something new, this is a place that captures the best of the city in one location.

    Time Out Market Osaka has officially arrived, bringing together some of the city’s top chefs, beloved local eateries, and international flavours—all under one roof. And the best part? It’s nestled in the brand-new Green Plaza, a vibrant urban space designed for food, fun, and relaxation.

    Located in the heart of Osaka’s bustling Umeda district, Green Plaza sits just a short walk from Osaka Station, making it a prime destination for both locals and visitors. The area is already known for its impressive skyscrapers, shopping hubs, and entertainment, but Green Plaza brings something new—a much-needed balance of modern urban energy and open, green space.

    Here’s why you should add this spot to your Osaka itinerary.

    The best of the City under one roof

    Osaka is famous for its food, and Time Out Market takes that reputation to the next level. This isn’t just another food court—it’s a carefully curated collection of some of the best dining experiences the city has to offer. Think Michelin-recognised chefs, legendary street food vendors, and exciting new flavours, all in one stylish setting.

    From high-end sushi to crispy takoyaki, every dish is made with Osaka’s signature passion for flavour. Highlights include expertly crafted ramen, sizzling okonomiyaki, gourmet yakitori, and decadent desserts from some of the city’s most celebrated patisseries. There’s even a dedicated craft beer and cocktail bar, offering the perfect pairing for your meal. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a long meal, the market delivers a feast worth remembering.

    For seafood lovers, there’s fresh sashimi straight from Osaka Bay, while meat enthusiasts can enjoy wagyu beef cooked to perfection. Vegetarian and vegan options are also well-represented, with plant-based ramen and creative Japanese fusion dishes that ensure no one misses out.

    Beyond the Food: Exploring Green Plaza

    Time Out Market is just the beginning. It’s located within Green Plaza, a brand-new urban space that blends modern design with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. With open spaces, stylish shops, and cultural spots, it’s a place where you can eat, explore, and unwind.

    The Idea Behind Green Plaza

    Green Plaza was designed with a clear vision: to create a dynamic, people-friendly space that balances modern urban living with sustainability and culture. Recognising the need for more pedestrian-friendly, green spaces in Osaka’s bustling cityscape, urban planners developed Green Plaza as an innovative model for future city design. It prioritises walkability, community engagement, and eco-conscious development, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have a welcoming place to gather, relax, and experience the best of the city.

    From its rooftop gardens that help combat the urban heat island effect to its use of energy-efficient lighting and sustainable materials, Green Plaza represents a new era of urban planning in Japan—one that seamlessly blends commerce, culture, and nature.

    What to Do at Green Plaza

    Green Plaza is pedestrian-friendly, eco-conscious, and designed for people to actually enjoy spending time in. It’s a refreshing escape from the usual city rush, making it a great place to stroll, grab a drink, or simply take in the vibe of Osaka’s ever-evolving landscape. Unique boutique stores and pop-up stalls showcase artisanal goods, while art installations add an extra touch of creativity to the area.

    One of the standout features of Green Plaza is its brand-new outdoor concert area, which hosts live music performances, cultural events, and weekend markets. From jazz nights to indie band showcases, the space brings an exciting energy to the district, making it a perfect spot to relax with a drink and enjoy Osaka’s vibrant arts scene. There are also film screenings, interactive workshops, and seasonal festivals that add to the dynamic atmosphere, ensuring there’s always something happening.

    For those looking to unwind, Green Plaza offers uniquely designed seating areas, rooftop gardens, and a small urban park where visitors can enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustling city. Families will appreciate the dedicated play areas for children, while remote workers can take advantage of open-air coworking spaces with free Wi-Fi.

    In the evenings, the area transforms with illuminated walkways, creating a scenic spot for a leisurely nighttime stroll. Seasonal light displays and projection mapping events add an extra layer of magic to the experience, making it an Instagram-worthy destination year-round.

  • Exploring Orange Street: Osaka’s Trendiest Shopping and Lifestyle District

    Exploring Orange Street: Osaka’s Trendiest Shopping and Lifestyle District

    If you’re looking for a stylish and creative side of Osaka, Orange Street (オレンジストリート, Orenji Dōri) is a must-visit. Officially known as Tachibana-dori, this trendy shopping street in the Minami district is a hub for fashion, design, and culture. Unlike the bustling neon lights of Dotonbori or the historic charm of Osaka Castle, Orange Street offers a more refined, laid-back experience—perfect for those who appreciate boutique shopping, artisanal cafés, and cutting-edge design.

    A Brief History of Orange Street

    Orange Street has a history dating back over 150 years. Originally, the area was a centre for furniture and home décor, with craftsmen and merchants selling high-quality goods. Over time, it evolved into a stylish destination, attracting fashion-forward brands, independent designers, and trendy cafés. While some furniture shops still remain, today’s Orange Street is better known as a creative district, blending Osaka’s traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.

    What to Expect on Orange Street

    1. Fashion & Boutique Shopping

    Unlike the mainstream shops of Shinsaibashi, Orange Street is home to independent boutiques, local designers, and vintage stores. Here, you can find:

    • Japanese streetwear brands like Porter, Journal Standard, and Neighbourhood.

    • High-end vintage shops featuring rare trainers, denim, and designer pieces.

    • Concept stores that mix fashion, art, and home décor.

    If you love unique and carefully curated clothing, Orange Street is a paradise.

    2. Stylish Cafés & Restaurants

    No visit to Orange Street is complete without stopping at one of its many Instagram-worthy cafés. Some popular spots include:

    • Brooklyn Roasting Company – A favourite for coffee lovers, offering high-quality, sustainable brews in a cool, industrial-style setting.

    • Granknot Coffee – A cosy, minimalist café with expertly crafted lattes.

    • Café No. – Famous for its sleek, monochrome aesthetic and beautifully presented drinks.

    OHOTORO FLAGSHIP STORE / CAFE HTR is located here and has amazing coffee & a store upstairs. I went there yesterday and the atmosphere was incredibly relaxing.

    Whether you’re in the mood for speciality coffee, matcha treats, or a casual brunch, Orange Street has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

    3. Art & Design Spaces

    With its roots in furniture and craftsmanship, Orange Street remains a hotspot for interior design and contemporary art. You’ll find:

    • Modern furniture shops that blend Japanese aesthetics with Scandinavian minimalism.

    • Local art galleries showcasing works by up-and-coming Osaka artists.

    • Creative studios where designers and makers experiment with new ideas.

    If you appreciate well-crafted design and artistic innovation, you’ll love wandering through this part of the city.

    How to Get to Orange Street

    Orange Street is located in the Minami (South) district of Osaka, between Namba and Shinsaibashi. The easiest way to get there is:

    • By train: Take the Yotsubashi Line to Yotsubashi Station (Exit 6) or the Midosuji Line to Shinsaibashi Station (Exit 7). Both are about a 5-minute walk away.

    • On foot: If you’re already in the Namba or Shinsaibashi area, it’s a short and pleasant stroll.

    Final Thoughts

    Orange Street is the perfect place to experience Osaka’s modern creativity and stylish urban culture. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a coffee lover, or an art and design aficionado, this trendy district has something to offer. It’s a great contrast to the city’s more famous attractions and provides a glimpse into Osaka’s youthful, artistic, and stylish side.

    Next time you visit Osaka, be sure to explore Orange Street—you might just discover your new favourite boutique or café!