Ultimate Guide to Osu Shopping Street, Nagoya’s Most Colorful District

A hotspot where tradition meets trend—that’s Ōsu Shopping Street in Nagoya.
Blending the nostalgic charm of old Japan with cutting-edge culture, this bustling area offers endless surprises and delights for visitors.

With over 1,200 shops lining its streets, Ōsu is Nagoya’s largest shopping district and a treasure trove of gourmet eats, fashion, and subcultures.

In this article, we’ll guide you through how to enjoy Ōsu Shopping Street—especially for first-time visitors and foreign tourists!


What is Ōsu Shopping Street?

Located in central Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Ōsu Shopping Street is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
Accessible via Ōsu Kannon Station or Kamimaezu Station, getting there is super convenient.

The street is covered by arcades, so you can enjoy shopping even on rainy days. Within this eclectic area, you’ll find traditional Nagoya foods, trendy cafes, global restaurants, electronics shops, and subculture stores all mingling together in a lively, chaotic harmony.

Ōsu is also famous as the main venue for the World Cosplay Summit, drawing cosplayers from around the globe.
It’s a place where tradition, innovation, and multiculturalism coexist in perfect chaos—that’s the magic of Ōsu Shopping Street.


3 Fun Ways to Enjoy Ōsu Shopping Street

1. Feel the World’s Cultures While Shopping

Ōsu is often described as a “melting pot” because of its diverse range of shops.
From retro knick-knacks to the latest fashion trends, cultures from all over the world are packed into one vibrant neighborhood.
Just walking through it can feel like a global adventure.

2. Experience Japanese Otaku Culture

Ōsu is one of Japan’s “Big Three” electronics districts, alongside Akihabara and Osaka’s Nipponbashi.
In streets like Akamon-dōri and Shintenchi-dōri, you’ll find PC parts shops, electronics stores, maid cafés, and anime merchandise shops—a haven for otaku culture lovers.

3. Enjoy Nagoya’s Gourmet Eats

Sample iconic local dishes like miso-nikomi udon, hitsumabushi (grilled eel rice), and uiraō (a traditional sweet).
You’ll also find Korean street food, Instagrammable desserts, and global flavors from all over the world.
It’s a food paradise perfect for snacking as you stroll.


Highlights by Street: What to Expect in Each Area

● Niōmon-dōri

Marked by retro lanterns, this street is home to long-established eateries.
Expect everything from 100-year-old eel restaurants to trendy cafés.

● Ōsu Kannon-dōri

This street retains the atmosphere of an old temple town near the historic Ōsu Kannon Temple.
You can also catch traditional Japanese comedy at Ōsu Entertainment Hall.

● Akamon-dōri

A subculture hotspot filled with PC stores and maid cafés.
Don’t miss the monthly “Akamon 28 Festival” held on the 28th—great for experiencing Japanese street festivals.

● Banshōji-dōri

Packed with clothing shops and home to the famous reuse department store KOMEHYO.
This arcade street is a must for fashion and shopping lovers.

● Higashi-Niōmon-dōri

Known for its international food scene, you’ll find Taiwanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian street food here.
It’s a perfect example of Ōsu’s “melting pot” identity.

● Shintenchi-dōri

In addition to electronics shops, this area features the Fureai Hiroba (Friendly Plaza), where the iconic Ōsu Lucky Cat statue sits.
Nearby Banshōji Temple has mechanical puppet performances and a striking white dragon monument.


7 Must-Try Street Foods in Ōsu

Ōsu is a paradise for foodies. Here are some crowd-favorite spots for tasty bites on the go:

1. Lee’s Taiwanese Fried Chicken

Crispy and juicy with a spicy kick, this giant Taiwanese-style fried chicken is a must-try. It’s a classic street snack that pairs perfectly with a cold beer.

2. Solo Pizza Napoletana

Get authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza for around ¥500.
The Margherita is especially popular for its chewy crust and rich flavor.

3. Osso Brasil

Famous for its juicy Brazilian rotisserie chicken.
You can grab a piece to-go and enjoy authentic Brazilian flavors while exploring.

4. Tai-fuku Chaan

A cozy spot for taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes) and Japanese sweets.
Try the matcha or sweet bean-filled versions, and relax with a matcha latte.

5. Vietnam Kitchen Ōsu

Perfect for a quick Vietnamese bite. Their bánh mì is stuffed with fresh herbs and veggies—light yet flavorful.

6. Shinjaku Honten

A long-established mitarashi dango shop.
The grilled rice dumplings dipped in sweet soy sauce are just ¥100 each—a traditional, budget-friendly treat.

7. Mega Kebab

A favorite for meat lovers. Choose your spice level and enjoy a filling kebab sandwich with bold flavors and Insta-worthy presentation.


Getting to Ōsu Shopping Street

Ōsu is located in central Nagoya and is easy to reach by public transport.

By Subway:

  • Tsurumai Line – Ōsu Kannon Station (Exit 2): 3-minute walk
  • Meijō Line – Kamimaezu Station (Exit 8): 3-minute walk
    The shopping street stretches between these two stations, so you can access it from either side.

By Bus:

  • Nagoya City Bus: Get off at Ōsu Hondōri stop
  • Meitetsu Bus: Get off at Wakamiya Ōdōri Ōsu stop (3–5 min walk)

By Car: There are several coin-operated parking lots in the area, but weekends and holidays tend to be crowded. Public transport is highly recommended.


Final Thoughts: Discover the Unique “Melting Pot” That Is Ōsu

Ōsu Shopping Street is more than just a shopping destination.
It’s a true snapshot of Nagoya culture, where tradition and innovation collide—along with delicious food, quirky shops, and vibrant subcultures.

When you visit Nagoya, make sure to take a stroll through Ōsu and immerse yourself in the colorful chaos that can only be experienced here!

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