Odyssey Osaka...Amazing Autumn...

 "Celebrating another year of life in the heart of Osaka—with the two people who gave me mine."  

My birthday gift for 2025 from my MR was a return ticket to Osaka, Japan—my favorite country! I believe this marks our fourth visit to Osaka and one of several memorable trips to Japan therefore I will skip the introduction of this amazing city. This time, we had the joy of bringing my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, along for their very first visit to Japan—after hearing countless glowing stories from me and Pig! We travelled in the last 2 weeks of September, when the weather was pleasantly cooler than Singapore, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 29°C. It was the perfect season to explore and enjoy the city all over again. 

Osaka in September ushers in the start of autumn, though the early weeks still carry the warmth and humidity of summer. As the month progresses, the weather becomes milder and more pleasant, marking a gentle shift into fall. 

The airport limousine bus from Kansai International Airport to Osaka Station offers a seamless and comfortable way to reach the city. Departing regularly from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, these buses stop at convenient locations near Osaka Station such as Herbis Plaza Osaka, Hilton Osaka, and Hotel New Hankyu. The journey typically takes around 60 minutes depending on traffic, and tickets cost about ¥1,600 one way. Passengers can purchase tickets at the grounds of the bus terminal and onboard amenities include spacious & plush seatings that provide ample legroom , overhead luggage storage, and clean restrooms. If you're traveling with luggage, there's generous storage space underneath the bus, so you won’t have to worry about squeezing bags into the seating area.

The bus bays are well-marked and organized, with digital displays showing departure times and destinations. 

The journey from the airport to the city took just 60 minutes—but what made it special was watching my parents’ excitement build with every passing scene over the large bus windows. They were wide-eyed, soaking in the unfamiliar sights and eager to immerse themselves in the culture from the moment we arrived.  

A regal debut in the vibrant heart of Osaka—this photo marks the queen’s official first moment, captured just moments after she stepped off the bus. The city hums around her, but she stands poised and radiant, as if Osaka itself paused to acknowledge her arrival. There's something cinematic about it: the spontaneity, the energy, and the quiet confidence of someone stepping into a new chapter with grace.

Café de Clever (South Gate) is a cozy, self-service café located on the 1st floor of the South Gate Building in Osaka Station City, just a minute’s walk from JR Osaka Station. It’s a convenient stop for commuters and travelers alike, offering a relaxed space with seating for up to 74 guests.

The café serves a wide selection of drinks including hand-drip coffee, matcha lattes, and seasonal beverages. Their food menu features light meals such as paninis, pasta, omelet rice, and hot dogs, along with sweet treats like waffles, parfaits, and cake sets—perfect for a casual breakfast, lunch, or tea break. 

They also offer a morning set from 6:00 to 11:00 AM, making it a great spot to start your day. After all the hassle, finally we are able to sit down at ease to enjoy a cup of coffee and some snacks. 

After warming up our stomachs, we proceed for our official lunch here... our first official meal in the odyssey. 

Tontontei (豚々亭) is a cherished local gem tucked away in the basement of the Osaka Ekimae Dai-2 Building in Umeda, just a short stroll from JR Osaka Station and Kitashinchi Station. This no-frills eatery has been serving up hearty, pork-centric meals since 1958, earning over 65 years of loyal following.

The atmosphere is cozy and bustling, with around 35 counter-style seats that fill quickly during peak hours. The staff, likely seasoned locals, are known for their brisk efficiency and warm hospitality. Though English is limited, they welcome tourists with genuine smiles and helpful gestures, making the experience feel grounded and approachable. Their energy mirrors the food—simple, satisfying, and full of heart.

Ordering is straightforward thanks to a ticket machine system with photo menus, allowing diners to select and pay before seating. Despite its humble setting, Tontontei consistently draws a mix of office workers, solo diners, and curious travelers—all in search of a delicious local meal for under ¥1,000. It’s the kind of place that leaves you full, happy, and quietly impressed.

The butadon is a comforting bowl that delivers both simplicity and satisfaction. At its heart is a generous serving of grilled pork slices, tender yet slightly caramelized, layered over a bed of warm, fluffy rice. The pork is glazed in a savory-sweet sauce—rich with soy, a hint of garlic, and a subtle sweetness that clings to each bite without overpowering. 

The rice underneath absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a comforting base that balances the meat’s richness.

The ginger pork rice is a comforting classic that delivers bold flavor with every bite. Thinly sliced pork is sautéed until tender and slightly caramelized, then coated in a fragrant ginger-infused soy sauce that strikes a perfect balance between savory and subtly sweet. The ginger adds a warm, zesty kick that lifts the dish without overpowering it. The presentation is simple but satisfying—no frills, just honest cooking with attention to taste and texture.

The Tonteki set is the restaurant’s signature offering—a bold, satisfying meal that showcases their mastery of pork. At the center is a thick-cut pork steak, grilled to perfection with a slight char on the edges and glazed in a rich, sweet-savory soy-based sauce infused with garlic. The meat is tender yet robust, with just enough fat to keep each bite juicy and flavorful.

The Oroshi Tonteki set  offers a refreshing twist on their classic pork steak. At the heart of the dish is a thick, juicy grilled pork steak, glazed in the restaurant’s signature sweet-savory soy-based sauce. What sets this version apart is the generous topping of grated daikon radish (oroshi), which adds a cool, slightly peppery brightness that cuts through the richness of the meat.

Despite the weariness etched from a red-eye flight, their spirits are unmistakably high—eyes bright with anticipation, steps light with curiosity. The moment they touched down in Osaka, a quiet thrill began to stir. The city hums with promise: sizzling street food, neon-lit alleyways, hidden vintage gems, and the warm bustle of everyday life. Fatigue fades into the background as excitement takes the lead. They’re ready to embrace whatever Osaka offers—be it serendipitous discoveries or long-awaited plans—and the next few days feel like a canvas waiting to be painted with laughter, flavor, and wonder.

Our Airbnb

Staying in a townhouse in a local neighborhood of Osaka offers a peaceful, authentic experience in the heart of the city. This area, located in Chūō-ku, blends quiet residential charm with easy access to major attractions like Osaka Castle, Namba, and Umeda. 

The streets are lined with a mix of traditional homes and modern low-rise buildings, giving it a cozy, lived-in feel that contrasts with the high-energy pace of nearby commercial districts.

A townhouse stay here often means enjoying a machiya-style layout—narrow but deep homes with sliding doors, and small inner gardens or courtyards.

 Many have been renovated to include modern comforts while preserving their historical character. 

It’s a great way to experience local Osaka life, especially if you enjoy walking to nearby bakeries, family-run restaurants, and hidden temples. 

The name of this townhouse is "Sakura" and there is a sakura tree right in front of the house though it is not the blooming season. The mini shrine round the corner - Higirijizoson which is 地藏菩萨 that I used it as a landmark on my googlemap.

To book, please see this link: https://www.airbnb.com.sg/rooms/985798544090766733?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=32e28f63-36d7-490d-a013-4e0573fb83da

Just a 5-minute walk from our Airbnb, there’s a Don Quijote (a regular branch, not a Mega Donki) and an Izumiya supermarket—both conveniently located under the same roof. 

Kamiji Ichibangai Shopping Street in Osaka’s Higashinari Ward is a nostalgic slice of Showa-era charm woven into the fabric of everyday life. 

Stretching about 300 meters, this lively arcade is home to roughly 50 shops offering everything from fresh produce and traditional sweets to clothing, household goods, and cozy snack bars. 

Born during Japan’s postwar reconstruction, the street grew organically as families settled in the area, evolving from food stalls into a vibrant commercial hub. 

Today, it retains its retro atmosphere while welcoming newer cafés and bakeries, creating a delightful mix of old and new. The cheerful voices of shopkeepers echo through narrow lanes, and seasonal events like summer festivals and year-end sales add to its warm, community-driven spirit. 

Whether you're browsing for local treats or sharing drinks at a Showa-style karaoke bar, Kamiji Ichibangai invites you to experience Osaka’s down-to-earth hospitality and timeless charm.

Stumbling upon Kamiji Ichibangai Shopping Street felt like uncovering a secret chapter of Osaka—an unplanned detour that turned into a quiet revelation. This tucked-away arcade, with its retro storefronts and timeworn charm, offers a rare glimpse into the rhythm of everyday local life. 

 

We came here for lunch and found ourselves seated in a quaint, old-school eatery run by the fourth generation—a place where tradition isn’t just preserved, it’s lived.

Bonus: Midori Shokudo (美登里食堂)

We went out of the way to visit, even though this area (Higashinari Ward) is not on our itinerary—and that speaks volumes. Midori Shokudo is exactly the kind of place that rewards that kind of effort: a hidden gem where the food is honest, the atmosphere is timeless, and the experience lingers long after the last bite.

Midori is a charming, retro-style eatery that has been serving locals since the 1930s. Steeped in Showa-era nostalgia, this long-standing diner offers a warm, no-frills atmosphere where time seems to stand still. 

With its simple wooden façade and cozy interior, Midori Shokudo is a beloved neighborhood spot known for its home-cooked Japanese comfort food, such as grilled fish, simmered dishes, and hearty set meals. 

It’s a rare gem that captures the spirit of pre-war Osaka, offering not just a meal, but a taste of history.

The heart of a humble, well-loved Japanese eatery—likely tucked into a quiet Osaka neighborhood. The space is compact but thoughtfully arranged, radiating a sense of lived-in warmth. A large wall-mounted TV and a classic round clock anchor the scene, while a cheerful Maneki-neko (beckoning cat) sits proudly on the shelf, inviting good fortune with its raised paw.

Below, two glass-fronted refrigerators reveal the rhythm of daily life: neatly stacked eggs, chilled drinks, watermelon slices, and other essentials. The counter is lined with trays, utensils, and condiment containers, all arranged with care. Despite the age of the fixtures—visible in the worn calendar, faded signage, and scuffed walls—the place feels clean, organized, and deeply respected.

The kitchen may be old, but it’s impressively neat and well-kept—a quiet testament to care and pride. Every surface feels lovingly maintained, tools arranged with purpose, and not a speck out of place. It’s the kind of space where decades of cooking have left stories, not clutter. You can sense the rhythm of routine, the respect for tradition, and the quiet dignity of a place that’s served countless meals with heart.

This aged basin, worn smooth by decades of use, carries the quiet dignity of time. Its surface bears gentle marks—faint scratches, softened edges—that whisper stories of countless meals and contented diners. Yet it gleams with care, polished and spotless, a testament to the pride taken in this humble kitchen. It’s not just a vessel—it’s a witness to tradition, hospitality, and the everyday joy of feeding others well.

Often referred to as 黄そば (kōsoba), this dish features thin slices of pork simmered in a light, savory broth. The noodles are typically yellow wheat noodles, slightly chewy and comforting. The broth is clear yet flavorful, with a gentle soy-based seasoning that lets the pork shine. It’s served piping hot, often with green onions and a dash of pepper—simple, satisfying, and perfect for a quiet lunch.

The katsudon is a nostalgic bowl that feels like a warm hug from a neighborhood kitchen. It features a golden, crispy breaded pork cutlet gently simmered in a savory-sweet broth made with soy sauce, mirin, and dashi. The cutlet is then topped with a soft, barely set egg and laid over a bed of fluffy white rice, soaking up all the rich flavors.

The pork is tender inside, with a satisfying crunch from the breading that holds up even after being bathed in broth. The egg is silky and comforting, binding the dish together with a gentle richness.

This photo of the fully emptied katsudon bowl speaks louder than words—a quiet testament to satisfaction. Every grain of rice gone, every trace of sauce savored. It’s not just a meal finished; it’s a story of comfort, flavor, and appreciation told in the language of clean porcelain. Sometimes, the best reviews are the ones left behind in silence.

It’s bill time, and here she comes—the elderly lady who’s quietly become a TikTok sensation. Likely in her 80s, she moves with practiced grace, her gestures warm and deliberate. Though her English is limited, she radiates hospitality, doing her best to make us feel welcome and understood. There’s something deeply touching about the way she serves—not just food, but a sense of care rooted in decades of experience. Her presence adds a layer of charm to the meal, turning a simple transaction into a moment worth remembering. You can see why she’s beloved online: she’s the heart of the place.

 In a place like Midori, where the atmosphere is quietly retro and the cooking is heartfelt, the meal isn’t just a meal—it’s a taste of everyday Osaka, served with pride and tradition.

We are heading to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street (天神橋筋商店街) which is a legendary covered arcade in Kita Ward, Osaka, and holds the distinction of being Japan’s longest shopping street, stretching approximately 2.6 kilometers from Tenjinbashi 1-chome to 7-chome which means there are total 7 sections.

Komeda Coffee is a beloved Japanese coffeehouse chain that first opened its doors in January 1968 in Nagoya. Since then, it has grown into a nationwide favorite with over 900 locations across Japan and a growing international presence. Komeda Coffee is known for its warm, retro-inspired interiors that evoke the comfort of a traditional Japanese kissaten (coffeehouse). The design emphasizes comfort and privacy, making it a popular spot for solo diners, students, and families alike.

Dining at Komeda Coffee is all about relaxation and indulgence, it was a good choice to kick start our day here in Tenjinbashi.

The standout feature is the plush red velvet booth seating, arranged in neat rows along the walls and central aisles.

Though the coffee leaned toward the average side, the food more than made up for it—it was solid, satisfying, and surprisingly generous. We ordered three sandwiches and one fish burger, each arriving with that signature Komeda touch: thick-cut bread, crisp lettuce, and fillings stacked with care. 

I wish the coffee is thicker!

The chicken sandwich at Komeda Coffee is a bold, satisfying creation that leans into comfort and flavor with signature Komeda generosity. It typically features a crispy chicken katsu cutlet—juicy on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside—nestled between slices of their famously thick, fluffy white bread. A rich, slightly sweet and spicy soy-based sauce is drizzled over the cutlet, giving it depth and a gentle kick.

The Ham & Egg Sandwich at Komeda Coffee is a comforting classic—simple, satisfying, and generously portioned. It features thick slices of Komeda’s signature soft white bread, lightly toasted or served fresh, depending on the branch and your preference. Inside, you’ll find a creamy, savory egg salad made with chopped boiled eggs and a touch of mayo, paired with slices of smoked ham that add a gentle saltiness and depth. The egg filling is rich but not heavy, with a smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the ham.

The Fish Fry Burger at Komeda Coffee is a hearty, comfort-driven creation that blends crisp texture with creamy richness. It features a generously sized, golden-brown fish fillet, freshly fried to a satisfying crunch. The fish is nestled inside Komeda’s signature oversized soft bun, which is slightly sweet and pillowy—baked in-house and known for its volume.

Back to the shopping street, its origins date back to the Edo period around 1653, when it began as a bustling market town serving pilgrims visiting the nearby Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and over time, it evolved into a vibrant commercial hub and remains a living piece of Osaka’s urban history.

The street is home to over 600 shops, ranging from traditional tea houses, kimono stores, and knife shops to modern boutiques, pharmacies, and quirky cafés. 

The street also plays a central role during the Tenjin Matsuri in July, one of Japan’s top three festivals, when the area comes alive with parades, food stalls, and traditional performances. 

The entire shopping arcade is covered, allowing for a pleasant and weatherproof stroll year-round. Walking from one end to the other typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, though most visitors linger—browsing shops, sampling street food, and soaking in the nostalgic charm. However, the arcade isn’t entirely continuous—you’ll need to cross a few streets at traffic lights to move between certain sections not all of these crossings are sheltered.

St. Marc Café (サンマルクカフェ) in Tenjinbashi, Osaka, is a cozy, well-loved branch of a brand that’s been warming hearts since 1998, when the first café opened in Okayama. It is, known for blending Western-style café culture with Japanese hospitality and baked goods.

The display case also features custard-filled danishes, matcha treats, savory sandwiches, and seasonal specials like sweet potato pies.

The Tenjinbashi location offers a warm, functional layout across two floors, with about 129 seats. The first floor is ideal for quick stops or solo visits, while the second floor provides a quieter, more relaxed space for lingering over coffee or pastries. The interior is simple and inviting, with wood accents, soft lighting, and clean lines that make it feel both modern and nostalgic. 

The caramel coffee is a sweet, indulgent twist on your usual brew—perfect for those who enjoy a dessert-like sip. It starts with a base of smooth, medium-bodied coffee, often served iced or hot depending on your preference. The highlight is the generous swirl of caramel syrup, which adds a buttery richness and mellow sweetness that softens the coffee’s natural bitterness. 

The Sunny Side Up Pastry at St. Marc Café is a playful, savory treat that catches the eye and satisfies the appetite. It features a soft, golden-baked pastry base—slightly flaky around the edges and tender in the center—topped with a perfectly cooked sunny side up egg, its yolk gleaming like a jewel.

Stepping back out into Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street after your coffee break at St. Marc Café, the rhythm of Osaka life greets you once more—lively, layered, and endlessly local. The arcade stretches ahead like a living corridor, its covered roof filtering soft daylight onto a mosaic of storefronts. You pass by mom-and-pop shops selling everything from handmade slippers to vintage vinyl, their displays spilling slightly onto the walkway in a charming, cluttered invitation.

The scent shifts as you walk—grilled skewers, sweet taiyaki, and the occasional waft of incense from a tucked-away shrine. Elderly locals shuffle past with shopping baskets, students dart between errands, and shopkeepers call out gentle greetings. You might spot a retro barber shop with striped poles spinning slowly, or a stationery store with shelves of neatly arranged washi tape and fountain pens.

Further in, the street narrows slightly, and the pace softens. A tiny bookstore beckons with faded covers and handwritten signs.

Returning to a place once shared with your son on a past trip carries a quiet, layered emotion—like stepping into a memory that’s still gently breathing. We ever dined in this KFC before and had great memories.  

Coffee Reimon is a charming, retro-style café located at the southern end of Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street in Osaka. It is an old-school establishment, steeped in Showa-era ambiance and beloved by locals for its nostalgic atmosphere. 

The interior evokes a classic Japanese kissaten: spacious yet cozy, with wood-paneled walls, cushioned seating, and a relaxed, slightly smoky air—yes, smoking is still permitted, which adds to its vintage character.

The café is spacious, offering a mix of booth seating and small tables. Lighting is warm and subdued, perfect for lingering over a quiet conversation or solo reflection.

Staff are efficient and polite, though English may be limited. Service is traditional: order at the table, pay at the counter. The vibe is unhurried, with regulars often spending long stretches reading or chatting.

We are here for a break, to rest our legs over a drink. Every customer is required to order at least one drink—a standard practice in many Japanese cafés, especially those with a sit-down format.

Shinsekai (新世界), meaning “New World,” is a nostalgic and vibrant district in southern Osaka that offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s early 20th-century urban dreams. Developed in 1912, the area was originally modeled after Paris in the north and Coney Island in the south, reflecting a bold vision of modernity. At its heart stands the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, a symbol of Osaka’s ambition and resilience, rebuilt in 1956 after being dismantled during World War II. Over the decades, Shinsekai transformed from a cutting-edge entertainment hub into a retro wonderland, filled with neon lights, vintage arcades, and old-school eateries. It’s especially famous for kushikatsu—deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables—which you can enjoy in casual restaurants that line the bustling streets. Despite its gritty reputation in the postwar years, Shinsekai has become a beloved cultural landmark, offering visitors a colorful blend of history, street food, and Osaka’s quirky charm.

For first-timers like Mr & Mrs Lee, Shinsekai feels like stepping into a living time capsule. The neon-lit streets, vintage arcades, and nostalgic shopfronts evoke a sense of Showa-era Japan, blending kitsch with charm. You'll likely be drawn to the towering Tsutenkaku, Osaka’s answer to the Eiffel Tower.

The Billiken Statue is one of Osaka’s most beloved and quirky icons—especially famous in the Shinsekai district and atop Tsutenkaku Tower. But what’s fascinating is that this smiling, pointy-headed figure didn’t originate in Japan at all. Created in 1908 by an American art teacher from Kansas City, Missouri who claimed the figure came to her in a dream, and she patented it as the “God of Things As They Ought to Be.” Billiken became a good luck charm in early 20th-century America, part of the “Mind-Cure” movement focused on positivity and fortune.

In 1912, a Billiken statue was installed in Luna Park, an amusement park in Shinsekai, coinciding with the opening of the original Tsutenkaku TowerWhen Luna Park closed in 1925, the statue disappeared, but the character had already become a local favorite. A replacement statue was installed in 1979 on the Golden Observation Platform of Tsutenkaku Tower, 87.5 meters above ground.

 Visitors rub the soles of his feet for good luck—a tradition that’s made his feet shiny from wear. He’s become a symbol of Osaka’s playful spirit, often described as a “god who does nothing” but smile and bring joy

Today, Billiken statues are all over Shinsekai—outside restaurants, shops, and even in souvenir form. He’s considered Osaka’s unofficial mascot, embodying the city’s humor, warmth, and love for the eccentric.

Kura Sushi Shinsekai Tsutenkaku is a lively branch of Japan’s beloved conveyor-belt sushi chain, nestled in the nostalgic Shinsekai district of Osaka. Founded in 1995, Kura Sushi has grown into a global brand with over 450 locations in Japan, known for its affordable, additive-free sushi and playful dining experience

The Shinsekai location features a bright, open interior with semi-private booths for groups and counter seating for solo diners. Upon arrival, guests check in via a kiosk system—you receive a ticket with your table number and follow signs to your seat.

It’s a self-service model: you grab your own utensils, water, and napkins from a side station, and order via a tablet menu or pick plates directly off the conveyor belt.

Human interaction is minimal by design—ideal for introverts or travelers who prefer a quiet, independent experience. Staff are available if needed, but most of the process is automated and intuitive.

Kura Sushi is famous for its “Bikkura-Pon!” system: every five plates inserted into the table slot triggers a chance to win a small toy capsule, adding a playful twist to your meal

Kura Sushi recently collaborated with the popular anime Kaiju No. 8 (怪獣８号), bringing a fun, themed twist to the dining experience.

Kura Sushi offers a wide variety of sushi starting at just JPY125 —from salmon and tuna to shrimp and vegetarian options.

At Kura Sushi, the payment process is refreshingly simple and tech-driven. Once you're done eating, you don’t need to flag down staff—instead, you just tap “End” on the tablet ordering system at your table. This signals that you’re ready to settle the bill.

After pressing “End,” the system tallies up your total, including all plates and any additional orders. A screen will display your table number and final amount. Take that information to the cashier counter, where staff confirm your total and process your payment.

Scoring two Kaiju No. 8 mini figures through the Bikkura-Pon! capsule game system adds a playful thrill to the sushi experience. There’s something delightfully childlike about sliding those empty plates into the slot, hearing the jingle, and watching the capsule drop—especially when it reveals a collectible tied to a favorite anime. It’s not just about the food anymore; it’s a moment of surprise, a shared laugh, and a little treasure to take home. Those figures now carry the memory of that meal, tucked into your pocket like a secret souvenir from Shinsekai.

Wandering through streets, with its old-school eateries and quirky bars, feels like discovering a secret slice of Osaka’s past. 

The atmosphere is vibrant, slightly chaotic, and full of character—perfect for wide-eyed exploration.

For repeat visitors like me & my MR, Shinsekai becomes less about sightseeing and more about soaking in the vibe. The area’s unchanging retro aesthetic offers a comforting sense of familiarity, like catching up with an old friend. 

You start to notice the local rhythms—the regulars at the game arcades, the shopkeepers chatting in Osaka dialect, the quiet corners behind the flash. It’s a place where nostalgia deepens with each visit.

Taking photos in the streets of Shinsekai with the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower—Osaka’s own “Eiffel Tower”—in the background is like capturing a slice of retro Japan wrapped in neon and nostalgia. The tower rises above the district with its steel lattice and glowing signage, a quirky beacon that feels both proud and playful.

The tower’s retro signage glows softly during dusk, casting a warm hue over the bustling alleys. Locals pass by with quiet familiarity, and tourists pause to frame their shots—some playful, some reverent—as if trying to capture not just the view, but the feeling.

Every photo feel like a postcard from a parallel Osaka—one where time folds gently, and the tower watches over it all. Whether you’re snapping candid portraits, architectural angles, or quiet street scenes, Shinsekai offers a canvas rich in texture, color, and memory. And with Tsutenkaku always in the background, your shots carry a signature that’s unmistakably Osaka.

While strolling toward the metro station, we unexpectedly stumbled upon MEGA Don Quijote Shinsekai—a delightful surprise! Naturally, we couldn’t resist seizing the opportunity to dive into the store and indulge in some serious tax-free shopping. With its massive selection of quirky finds, snacks, cosmetics, and souvenirs, it felt like a treasure hunt in retail paradise. Definitely one of those spontaneous detours that turned into a highlight of the day.

Vending machines in Japan are more than just convenient—they’re a cultural icon, quietly humming on street corners, train platforms, and tucked into alleyways like modern-day lanterns. Sleek, spotless, and often brightly lit, they offer an astonishing variety of items beyond the usual drinks and snacks.

Beyond drinks, you’ll find machines selling ice cream, ramen kits, fresh produce, and even regional souvenirs. In quirky corners of Tokyo or Kyoto, you might stumble upon machines offering mystery boxes, fortune slips, or capsule toys with local themes.

Tourists love photographing them—especially when they’re nestled against scenic backdrops like Mount Fuji, temple gates, or neon-lit alleys. Their designs range from minimalist to wildly colorful, sometimes featuring anime characters, local mascots, or seasonal art.

We have reached the end of this blog—thanks for following along!  Below are links to my other posts from this trip:

1) Odyssey Osaka...Amazing Autumn...

2) Sparkling Shinsabashi & Dynamic Dotonbori @ Odyssey Osaka...Amazing Autumn...

3) Nonchalant Nara @ Odyssey Osaka...Amazing Autumn...

Meanwhile here to share the blogs from our previous trips to Japan:

1) Chiba 4D3N @ Our Spiritual Healing Japan Trip 

2) Yamanashi The Mt Fuji 5D4N @ Our Spiritual Healing Japan Trip 

3) Kamakura 3D2N @ Our Spiritual Healing Japan Trip 

4) Kinosaki Onsen Town (城崎温泉) 2D1N @ Kyushu, Chūgoku & Kansai

5) Hiroshima(広島) )/ Miyajima(宮島) / Kitakyushu (北九州) / Onomichi(尾道) 6D5N @ Kyushu, Chūgoku & Kansai

6) Hakata (博多) / Yufuin (湯布院) / Takachiho (高千穂) & Nagato (長門) 4D3N @ Kyushu, Chūgoku & Kansai.

7) Kagoshima (鹿児島) / Sakurajima (桜島) / Ibusuki (指宿市) 4D3N @ Kyushu, Chūgoku & Kansai.

8) Special Edition : My "off the beaten track" memorable trip to Nagato(長門)

I would be absolutely thrilled if you have a little more time to explore some of the unforgettable adventures we've experienced along the way:  

1) Arctic's Journey: The Aurora Borealis of Tromsø, The Nirvana Norway

2) Captivating Colmar France @ Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Switzerland

3) Idyllic Iseltwald @ Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Switzerland

4) Maginificent Matterhorn @ Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Switzerland

5) Bedazzling Bruges @ Belgium

6) Ban Rak Thai @ Mae Hong Son Thailand

7) The NorthenMost Tippest Tip of Denmark : Skagen

8) "SABUY SABUY" Mon Jam @ Thailand

9) "YEOGI"! Huinnyeoul Cultural Village @ Busan

10) ShanTang Street (山塘街) @ Suzhou (苏州) China

11) Legendary Hangzhou - She Played a Part in The Ten Kingdoms

12) Shanghai's City Walk @ Wukang Road (武康路), Anfu Road (安福路), Wulumuqi Road (乌鲁木齐路)

Feel free, you are most welcome to browse through my other blogs to France, Japan, China, Thailand, Malaysia and cruises etc. 

Please stay tune by liking my Facebook page: followblueginger, Instagram page : followblueginger , TikTok page: bluegingerkaren and Tumblr page :followblueginger.

Thanks, and Cheers

"I travel because seeing photos in books and brochures was not good enough for me, To be there, that was everything"