Tenjinbashisuji + Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Tenjinbashisuji street is the longest covered shopping arcade in Japan: its 2,6 kilometres house more than 600 shops of all kinds, from hardware shops and neighbourhood grocers to youth-fashion shops, confectioners and ramen restaurants. Unlike the tourist areas of Namba or Shinsaibashi, Tenjinbashisuji is an authentic neighbourhood street where lifelong locals shop; the atmosphere is quieter, the prices lower and the experience more spontaneous. In the southern stretch of the arcade is the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, founded in the 10th century and dedicated to Tenjin, the Shinto deity of scholarship and wisdom. It is one of the most venerated shrines in the city and the stage of the Tenjin Matsuri, one of the three most important festivals in Japan, held every 24 and 25 July with processions of boats illuminated along the river. Entry to the shrine is free. To get to the area, take the subway to Tenjimbashisuji Rokuchome (Tanimachi and Sakaisuji lines) and walk south down the arcade. Allow at least two hours to explore the street calmly.