Namba Parks

The shopping arcades that run alongside the high-end department stores in Osaka’s Shinsaibashi district are legendary.  Namba Parks however, offers something a bit different. Whether its brand fashions, imported goods, or those harder to find rarities, Namba Parks has something for everyone.

Across the shopping and entertainment complex’s eight floors, you’ll find all manner of new and interesting distractions. Top foreign fashion labels sit alongside locally produced, handmade goods. Namba Parks’ blend of shops luxury goods with other stores selling more practical, daily items means the complex appeals to both tourists and locals alike.

However, being situated a fair distance away from the main tourist shopping area of Shinsaibashi, Namba Parks is noticeably less busy on the weekends and other peak shopping periods. Even so, there’s a lot more to Namba Parks than just the shopping.

The top 2 floors offer some excellent fine dining options. I would especially recommend the delicious “Doria” restaurant. Doria is a Japanese/European fusion dish consisting of meat and vegetables in a sauce, topped off with an Italian style herb and cheese crust. The curry doria (Japanese version for Gratin made with rice) is particularly tasty.

The top floor also offers a multiplex cinema, screening both the latest Hollywood blockbusters and more local, artistic fare. The cinema also boasts the latest 3D and IMAX screening technology, giving the best possible cinematic experience.

After shopping, a bite to eat and possibly a movie, there’s no better way to unwind than with a gentle stroll around Namba Parks’ beautifully ornate rooftop garden. If you’re lucky enough to visit there in the winter months, you can also enjoy the winter illuminations and light show which covers the entire rooftop garden.

On the rooftop there are also a number of casual bars and coffee shops to relax and indulge in some people-watching.