Osaka is a city of many facets, mixing historical districts, Buddhist temples, lively shopping alleys and unforgettable culinary experiences. Among its hidden treasures, the Korean neighbourhood of Tsuruhashi, better known as Korea Town, offers an immersive journey into Korean culture and gastronomy. Whether you’re an amateur of kimchi, a K-beauty cosmetics enthusiast or simply curious to discover another face of Osaka, this neighborhood is a must-see.
To Korea Town in Osaka
Korea Town is located in the district of Ikuno, near Tsuruhashi Train Station. To get there, the simplest way is to borrow theJR Osaka Loop Line(Kanjo-sen) from Osaka station to Osaka stationTsuruhashi(about 16 minutes, 180 yen). Once you arrive, take theexit Westwhich will take you directly into a covered shopping gallery, ideal starting point to explore this atypical neighborhood.
A neighbourhood marked by history
Korea Town is inhabited mainly by descendants of Koreans who came to Japan in the early twentieth century, mainly during the Japanese occupation of Korea. These residents, calledZainichi Kankokujin(Koreans residing in Japan), transformed the district of Ikuno into a realKorean cultural and commercial centre, where traditions and modernity meet.
From the exit of the station you will be struck by the unique atmosphere of the neighborhood. The narrow streets and small stalls recall the traditional Seoul markets. A familiar smell escapes from several stands: that ofkimchi, these fermented and spicy vegetables typical of Korean cuisine.
Exploration of Tsuruhashi markets
Korea Town markets are divided into two main parts:
The traditional market
From the first steps in the covered market, we dive into an atmosphere that seems frozen in time. This underground market housesfamily shops, where we find everything :
- Theold bookstoresselling Korean books and newspapers.
- Small shops offeringtypical ingredientslike dried algae, hot sauces or fermented vegetables.
- Stands offresh meat, with all parts of the animal exposed in steel bins.
It’s a fascinating place where we still feel the influence of past generations who shaped this neighborhood.
The modern market
Leaving the traditional market, we reach a more recent street, which contrasts strongly with the old market. A large arch decorated with Korean motifs marks the entrance ofShin Korea Town, the contemporary version of the neighborhood.
Here, bright signs and modern shops give a whole new atmosphere. The flagship products in this market include:
- Korean cosmetics: face masks, moisturizing creams and hair care at the cutting edge of the K-beauty trend.
- Korean snacks: Honey and butter chips, spicy rice cakes (teokbokki), and popular sweets in Korea.
- Fashion accessories and K-pop: clothes inspired by Korean trends and objects with the effigy of famous K-pop groups.
Culinary discovery: where to eat in Korea Town?
Could not visit Korea Town without tasting local culinary specialties. Here are some essential addresses:
Yamada Syouten: authentic Korean noodles
This small shop in the heart of the market offers traditional noodle dishes at affordable prices:
- Rei-men: cold noodles served with raised broth, vegetables and an egg.
- Jya-jyan-men: thick noodles in salty brown sauce.
- Pi-bin-men: spicy noodles with vegetables and meat.
- Pi-bin-ba: Korean version of the donburi, with rice mixed with various vegetables and a pepper sauce.
Each dish is accompanied bybenchhan(small Korean accompaniments), especially home-made kimchi, for an explosion of flavors.
Address:4 Chome-9-6 Momodani, Ikuni-ku, Osaka
Hours:7am – 6pm
Minzokumura: a yakiniku buffet in Korean
For grilled meat lovers,Minzokumurais an address not to be missed. This restaurant offers formulas at will ofsamgyeopsal (, a Korean specialty of roasted pork breast, served with various vegetables and sauces.
The dishes are to be tasted Korean way: you wrap the meat in a salad leaf with a spicy sauce before savouring it.
Address:4 Chome-6-19 Momodani, Ikuni-ku, Osaka
Hours:11am – 9pm
Experiences and shopping in Korea Town
Apart from gastronomy, Korea Town is full of shops and activities to discover.
K-pop shopping and Korean culture
Several specialized stores offer items derived from theK-pop groupsMost popular. Whether you’re a fan of BTS, BLACKPINK or SEVENTEN, you’ll find albums, posters and goodies with the effigy of your favorite artists.
Korean cosmetics: the skincare paradise
Skin care enthusiasts will be filled with the variety of products available. Among the best shops are popular brands such asStudy HouseandTony Moly, where you can buy moisturizing masks based on natural ingredients such as green tea or aloe vera.
Cultural experiences
Some shops and cafes offer immersive cultural experiences, such asKorean calligraphy workshops, traditional tea tastings or hanbok sessions (traditional Korean costume).
A visit to Korea Town is an opportunity to discover a multicultural side of Osaka, where Korean and Japanese traditions coexist harmoniously. Whether for a gourmet break, shopping or just a walk, this unique neighborhood will take you to Korea without leaving Japan.
If this article has brought you useful information and can help other travellers prepare for their stay, a Google review will always be appreciated. |
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