Behind Namba




A city is alive and in motion. Popular areas in Osaka's downtown Minami, such as Americamura and Minamisemba, change with the times. Since around 2010, "Ura Namba" has become popular as a spot for bar-hopping. The area stretches from Sennichimae in the north to Nansan-dori in the south, Kuromon Market in the east, and Takashimaya in the west. "Ura Namba" is known for its cheap and delicious food, with a row of unique shops run by young shopkeepers. Another feature is the wide variety of standing bars. Until a decade ago, standing bars were the purveyors of older men, but they are now popular with young people and women as well, as they are casual and stylish. In Ura Namba, bar-hopping is the norm. It's fun to have a drink, then go to the next bar, and then to another bar, and then to another bar. There are over 100 restaurants of various genres, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese, lined up, so the way to enjoy yourself as an expert is to eat, drink, and make friends with the friendly staff and customers at the bars. By the way, the name "Ura Namba" was coined by the shop owners in the area.