Osu Shopping District
Nagoya's Eclectic Shopping Paradise
Osu Shopping District, centered around the historic Osu Kannon Temple, has been a commercial hub since the temple's relocation to this area in 1612. The district developed as a temple town, with shops and entertainment venues catering to pilgrims and worshippers. This 400-year history created a unique blend of traditional religious culture and commercial vitality that continues today.
After World War II, Osu transformed into one of Nagoya's premier shopping destinations, developing covered arcades in the 1950s and 1960s. The district successfully balanced preservation of traditional shops selling kimono, tea ceremony items, and antiques with modern retailers offering electronics, fashion, and pop culture merchandise. This eclectic mix became Osu's defining characteristic.
Today, Osu represents Nagoya's most diverse shopping experience, often compared to Tokyo's Harajuku and Akihabara. The pedestrian arcades stretch over 1.7 kilometers, creating a weather-protected shopping environment. The area attracts young people for its vintage fashion and cosplay shops, foodies for its international restaurants, and technology enthusiasts for its electronics stores, all centered around the spiritual anchor of Osu Kannon Temple.
Key Highlights
- Over 1,200 shops and restaurants
- Historic Osu Kannon Temple at center
- Covered arcades totaling 1.7km
- Mix of traditional and modern retail
- Famous for vintage fashion and electronics
- International food scene
Access Information
Location
Osu, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Osu Kannon Station (Tsurumai Line) - direct access
- • Kamimaezu Station (Meijo and Tsurumai Lines) - 2 min walk
- • Yabacho Station (Meijo Line) - 5 min walk
Opening Hours
Varies by shop, typically 10:00-20:00. Some restaurants open later
Admission Fee
Free to browse, purchases vary
How to Get There
From Nagoya Station
Subway Tsurumai Line to Osu Kannon Station (Exit 2)
10 minutes
From Sakae
Walk south or take Tsurumai Line one stop to Osu Kannon
5 minutes
From Nagoya Castle
Subway Meijo Line to Kamimaezu Station
20 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons offer comfortable browsing. Weekends are lively but crowded. Visit Osu Kannon Temple early morning (6:00 AM) for a peaceful experience before shops open. Major events (18th and 28th of each month) bring crowds and special market stalls.
Shopping Highlights
Explore Komehyo for luxury second-hand goods, vintage clothing stores along the arcades, electronics shops (similar to Akihabara but smaller), Japanese traditional items near the temple, and unique cosplay and anime merchandise shops.
Food Paradise
Try Taiwanese-style karaage (fried chicken), traditional Japanese sweets, international cuisine (Brazilian, Turkish, Vietnamese), trendy cafés, and local Nagoya specialties like miso katsu and ankake spa (pasta). Street food abundant during festivals.
Navigate the Arcades
Four main covered arcades intersect: Niomon-dori, Banshoji-dori, Akamon-dori, and Higashi Niomon-dori. Use Osu Kannon Temple as your landmark. The covered arcades provide weather protection. Pick up a free map at information centers.
Vintage Fashion
Osu is famous for vintage and second-hand clothing stores. Find American vintage, kimono, retro Japanese fashion, and unique accessories. Prices generally reasonable. Quality varies - inspect items carefully before purchasing.
Visit Osu Kannon Temple
The district's spiritual center, Osu Kannon is free to enter and offers a peaceful contrast to shopping bustle. Antique markets held on 18th and 28th. Temple grounds host festivals and events throughout the year.
Payment and Tax-Free
Mix of cash-only and card-accepting shops. Bring yen for small purchases and street food. Some larger retailers offer tax-free shopping - bring your passport. Bargaining not common except at antique markets.
Photography and Culture
Great for street photography and people watching. Cosplayers sometimes visible on weekends. Regular cultural events and street performances. Check local calendars for festivals. The area has a youthful, creative energy.
FAQ
What is Osu Shopping District?
Osu is a vibrant entertainment and shopping district in central Nagoya, centered around the historic Osu Kannon Temple. The area features over 1,200 shops along covered arcades selling everything from vintage clothing and electronics to street food and anime merchandise. It's known for its eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture, similar to Tokyo's Harajuku meets Akihabara.
How do I get to Osu from Nagoya Station?
Take the Higashiyama Subway Line from Nagoya Station to Sakae Station (2 stops), then transfer to the Tsurumai Line and ride one stop to Osu Kannon Station. Alternatively, walk 15 minutes from Sakae. The total journey is about 10-15 minutes. The main shopping arcades are immediately accessible from Osu Kannon Station exits.
What can I buy in Osu Shopping District?
Vintage and secondhand clothing, anime and manga merchandise, electronics and games (new and used), traditional Japanese items, street fashion, cosplay outfits, retro toys, records and CDs, antiques, jewelry, and unique souvenirs. The diversity is staggering—from high-end fashion boutiques to 100-yen shops, creating a treasure-hunting atmosphere.
What is Osu Kannon Temple?
A historic Buddhist temple and the district's spiritual heart, built in 1612. The current building dates from 1970 after fire damage. It's dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple grounds host regular flea markets (18th and 28th of each month) that are extremely popular. The temple provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling shopping arcades.
When are the flea markets held?
The famous Osu Antique Market occurs on the 18th and 28th of every month at the temple grounds. Vendors sell antiques, vintage items, crafts, clothing, and various collectibles. These markets attract large crowds and offer unique finds. Arrive early (morning) for the best selection. Rain or shine, the markets proceed year-round.
What are the shopping arcade hours?
Most shops operate from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though hours vary by shop. Some entertainment venues and restaurants stay open later. The arcades are covered, allowing comfortable shopping in any weather. Weekends are busier than weekdays. Some shops close on Wednesdays or other weekdays—specific closures vary by shop.
Is Osu good for anime and manga fans?
Excellent! Multiple shops specialize in anime merchandise, manga (new and used), figures, cosplay supplies, character goods, and collectibles. Shops like Mandarake, K-Books, and various smaller specialty stores offer extensive selections. Prices are often better than Tokyo for similar items. The district has a strong otaku culture presence similar to Akihabara.
What makes Osu different from Tokyo's shopping districts?
Osu is more compact and less crowded than Harajuku or Akihabara, offering a more relaxed shopping experience. The covered arcades provide weather protection. Prices are generally lower than Tokyo. The mix of traditional temple culture with contemporary youth culture creates a unique atmosphere. It's easier to navigate and less overwhelming for first-time visitors.
Are there good vintage clothing stores?
Osu is famous for vintage and secondhand fashion! Numerous shops sell American vintage, European vintage, Japanese vintage, retro clothing, and designer secondhand pieces. The Komehyo Osu Store (luxury secondhand) is particularly notable. Prices range from budget-friendly to high-end. Fashion enthusiasts can easily spend hours hunting for unique pieces.
What food and snacks should I try?
Taiwan ramen (spicy noodles, a Nagoya specialty), various takoyaki stands, crepes from street vendors, yakitori, taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), and international food from Brazilian, Nepali, and other restaurants. Osu Ichibankan food court offers multiple vendors. Street food culture is strong, making it perfect for grazing while shopping.
Is Osu suitable for families with children?
Yes, though the appeal depends on children's ages. Teenagers enjoy the fashion, anime, and arcade culture. Younger children might find the toy shops, arcades, and street food interesting. The covered arcades are stroller-friendly. However, the district caters more to youth culture than traditional family attractions. The temple grounds offer peaceful rest areas.
How long should I spend in Osu?
Serious shoppers can easily spend 3-4 hours or more browsing the many shops. A casual visit takes 1.5-2 hours to walk the main arcades and visit the temple. If attending a flea market, add 1-2 hours. Combining shopping with meals extends the visit. The compact layout makes it easy to cover efficiently.
Are there electronics and game shops?
Yes, multiple shops sell electronics, games (retro and modern), gaming consoles, PC components, cameras, and gadgets. Goodwill (retro games) and various smaller shops offer good selections. While not as extensive as Tokyo's Akihabara, Osu provides solid options at competitive prices. Retro gaming enthusiasts particularly appreciate the selections and prices.
Can I find English-language manga and books?
Most manga is in Japanese, catering to local customers. However, some shops carry English-language manga and books. International visitors often buy Japanese manga as collectibles regardless of language. The extensive secondhand manga selection offers great value. For English books, Nagoya's larger bookstores might be better options.
What is the atmosphere like?
Energetic, youthful, and eclectic! The mix of traditional temple culture, youth fashion, otaku culture, street performers, international restaurants, and diverse shoppers creates a unique vibe. It's less polished than department stores but more authentic and interesting. The covered arcades have a retro Showa-era feeling mixed with contemporary trends.
Are prices negotiable in Osu shops?
Generally no, shops have fixed prices. However, at the flea markets, some negotiation is possible and expected, especially for antiques and vintage items. Regular shops follow standard Japanese retail practice of fixed pricing. Tax-free shopping is available at qualifying shops for tourists spending over 5,000 yen.
Is Osu safe for solo travelers?
Very safe! Like most of Japan, Osu is extremely safe even for solo travelers including women. The busy, well-lit covered arcades are active during the day and early evening. Normal urban precautions apply. The area has a strong community feel, and shopkeepers are generally helpful and trustworthy.
Can I combine Osu with other Nagoya attractions?
Absolutely! Osu is close to Sakae (Nagoya's main downtown), Nagoya Castle (20 minutes), Toyota Commemorative Museum (30 minutes), and Atsuta Shrine (20 minutes). The central location makes it easy to incorporate into a day of Nagoya sightseeing. Many visitors shop in Osu between other attractions or dedicate an afternoon to exploration.
Are there cosplay shops?
Yes, several shops sell cosplay costumes, wigs, accessories, and related items. Prices and quality vary from budget options to professional-grade costumes. Some shops specialize in specific fandoms or costume types. Osu is a popular destination for cosplayers shopping for events. The area's otaku culture makes it natural for cosplay shopping.
What makes Osu a must-visit in Nagoya?
It's Nagoya's most interesting shopping district, offering authentic local culture beyond typical tourist sites. The combination of historic temple, diverse shopping, affordable prices, unique finds unavailable elsewhere, excellent street food, and energetic atmosphere creates a memorable experience. It showcases Nagoya's character better than typical tourist attractions, making it essential for understanding the city's contemporary culture.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Atsuta Shrine
One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, housing the legendary sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the Three Sacred Treasures of the Imperial Family. The shrine's sacred forest and ancient traditions attract millions of visitors annually.
Inuyama Castle
Japan's oldest surviving castle keep, designated a National Treasure. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kiso River, this compact fortress offers stunning views and an authentic glimpse into feudal-era castle architecture.
Iwasaki Castle
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Moricoro Park (near Ghibli Park)
A expansive public park built on the former site of the 2005 World Expo, now home to the popular Ghibli Park, offering nature trails, Japanese gardens, and various recreational facilities
Nagoya Castle
A magnificent castle famous for its golden shachihoko (dolphin-like mythical creatures) adorning the roof. Originally built in 1612, it represents the power of the Tokugawa shogunate and the artistry of Japan's castle-building era.
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
A comprehensive industrial museum housed in Toyota's original factory, showcasing the evolution from textile machinery to automotive technology with extensive hands-on exhibits and working demonstrations