Hidden Gem in Osaka! Nakazakicho, a must-visit for introverts

As an introvert, honestly, Osaka's bustling shopping districts can be overwhelming if you're not planning to shop. The crowds and noise can quickly lead to anxiety! But just a 10-minute walk from Umeda lies Nakazakicho, a delightful surprise in Osaka that I’m always willing to spend half a day exploring at a leisurely pace. This area is artistic and romantic, completely different from the typical image of Osaka! It’s packed with cafes, dessert shops, vintage stores, and art exhibitions, like stars scattered across the neighborhood. Many buildings from the Showa era have been preserved, giving it a retro yet artistic vibe. The storefronts of the small shops are all thoughtfully designed, and wandering aimlessly often leads to delightful discoveries—it’s truly therapeutic! If you’re not taking your time, you can explore the area in about two hours. But if you want to savor each shop, you could easily spend an entire day here. For instance, there’s a low-key café I love, with an inconspicuous sign and a no-photo policy, where I can sit for an entire afternoon and just relax. Here are a few recommended spots 👇 🍵 Utena Café: Located next to the mini Hakuryu Daijin Shrine, run by a charming elderly couple. The vintage furniture and decor are full of character! 🍙 Musubido: Their rice balls and miso soup are amazing! People start lining up before it opens, and you can enjoy a filling lunch for just 60 yen per person. ☕️ OSA COFFEE: Airport-themed, and their ice cream is super popular! 🍐 Neel Coffee: A shop from Tokyo, their brunch is even better than their coffee! 🥙 Kinmokusei Cafe: A crepe specialty store, with heartwarming messages written on their wet wipes—so thoughtful! ⚠️ Friendly reminder: Many shops are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and some unique stores prohibit photography, so be mindful! City walks are all about relaxing—no need to strictly follow a guide. Just go with the flow, and you’ll find the most joy. Come to Nakazakicho and discover your own little happiness!