Limited Time, Max Retail Therapy! Flight Attendant's Tips for the Perfect Osaka Shopping Trip
Osaka, known for its vibrant atmosphere, is a paradise for shopping, entertainment, and fun. As tourists, time is often our greatest constraint. So, if you're seeking the ultimate shopping experience within a limited timeframe, where should you focus your efforts?
We turned to Xiao, a flight attendant with Taiwan Airlines, to uncover her expert tips on optimizing leisure time for shopping during flights to Osaka. Xiao generously shares her pre-travel hacks, and we've curated a 2-day shopping itinerary.
From iconic destinations like Shinsaibashi, Namba Station, and Rinku Town's Outlet Mall to Xiao's personal recommendations for fun attractions, these insights are a must-read for weekend adventurers and efficient shoppers alike!
Main image: PIXTA
Flight Attendant Xiao W: A Passionate Explorer of Japan
Xiao W, a flight attendant at Taiwan Airlines, embraces the challenges of both grueling long-haul flights lasting over 8 hours and short-haul flights as short as 2 hours with unwavering enthusiasm. With six years of experience under her belt, Xiao admits that despite traveling to numerous countries, her heart belongs to Japanese flights, particularly those bound for Osaka!
She has developed a deep affection for Osaka, a bustling and welcoming city renowned for its convenience in shopping and plethora of delectable cuisine. Whenever Xiao spots Osaka on her monthly flight schedule, she feels an overwhelming sense of gratitude towards her company.
She exclaims, "With Japan having reopened its doors to tourism, Taipei to Osaka flights have become increasingly lively. During holidays, it's practically guaranteed to be a fully booked flight!"
Key Planning Highlights for an Osaka Retail Blitz
(Image: PIXTA)
1. Choose Accommodation Near Shopping Destinations
Staying at hotels near popular shopping destinations in Osaka, such as Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori, offers numerous advantages. These hotels not only provide convenient access to vibrant shopping areas but also offer a wide range of facilities.
One of the greatest benefits is the time and cost saved on transportation. Additionally, if you find yourself buying too many items or feeling tired, you can easily return to the hotel to drop off your purchases or take a rest. Overall, the advantages are plentiful.
Flight attendant Xiao shares her experience, saying, "I stayed near Shinsaibashi before, and it was incredibly convenient. If I forgot to buy something, I could go downstairs to replenish it. Once, when I felt my feet were tired, I quickly ran to the nearby drugstore to buy a 'foot relaxation time' mask and applied it to my feet while lying down. It was quite amusing!"
Recommended Hotels Near Shopping Destinations:
Holiday Inn Osaka Namba, an IHG Hotel
Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring
Cross Hotel Osaka
2. Minimize Time and Expenses Spent on Transportation
Transportation options in Kansai Airport and various areas of Osaka are highly convenient, allowing you to choose the most suitable mode of transport based on your destination. For example, taking the Nankai Electric Railway's Rapi:t Airport Express can get you from the airport to Namba in just 38 minutes, offering affordable fares. Flight attendant Xiao W frequently utilizes this airport transportation option.
Xiao shares, "Since I often visit Namba and Dotonbori, the Nankai Electric Railway is incredibly convenient for me. It's fast, convenient, and there's no need for transfers."
Book Now ▶ Nankai Line Airport Express Train Tickets (KIX or Namba Departure)
Additionally, for the return journey, if you're concerned about heavy or excessive luggage, you can opt to take the convenient Limousine Bus from Namba OCAT to the airport.
Some hotels also have airport shuttle bus services available, making it easier for those who prefer a hassle-free and convenient option without having to walk to the train station.
Direct Airport Bus to Hotels in Namba:
Hotel Nikko Osaka
Candeo Hotels Osaka Kishibe
Direct Airport Bus to Hotels in Umeda:
Hotel New Hankyu Osaka
The Westin Osaka
Hotel Hankyu International
Hilton Osaka Hotel
3. Carefully Select Attractions and Plan Shopping Lists in Advance
Xiao suggests planning ahead by outlining the desired attractions before departure. This includes must-try local delicacies and specific shops to visit. Since time for sightseeing is limited, it's best to carefully select a few attractions that are not too far and truly of interest. It's advisable to minimize time spent on transportation.
She advises, "If you're unsure of what to buy, I recommend heading directly to the comprehensive shopping malls or outlets, such as those in Namba and Umeda. They have a wide range of department stores and large-scale shopping centers where you can spend an entire day without any issues."
If you're not sure what to buy, you can browse the Japanese online tax-free shopping platform, "Tax Free Online.jp (TFO)." It offers a plethora of popular items, including cosmetics, health supplements, electronics, clothing, and souvenirs. It features well-known products frequently purchased by visitors to Japan.
Additionally, you can directly check the tax-free prices, making it a convenient reference for lazy shoppers. If there are items you couldn't purchase in time, ordering them directly from the tax-free website is also a great option!
Official Website ▶ Tax Free Online.jp (TFO)
4. Avoid Overpacking Your Luggage When Traveling Abroad
When it comes to unlimited shopping desires and limited luggage space, proper allocation becomes crucial! Before traveling abroad, minimize unnecessary items when packing your luggage.
For instance, consider leaving behind high-heeled shoes, spare backpacks, and even bring old clothes that you can wear and discard during the trip without hesitation.
Xiao shares, "I often encounter passengers at the airport who realize their luggage is overweight during boarding. I've even witnessed someone spontaneously throwing away newly purchased discounted clothes to free up weight and space in their suitcase. (laughs)"
Goodbye to Luggage Worries: Flight Attendant Shares Life-Changing Packing Tips
5. Adhere to Customs and Quarantine Regulations for Carry-on Items and Entry
During the interview, Xiao specifically emphasized the importance of being aware of customs regulations before departure.
"I understand everyone's excitement about traveling abroad, but it's crucial to remember and comply with the regulations on carry-on items upon entry. Some countries have restrictions on cosmetics, tobacco, and alcohol. If you go on a massive shopping spree for reselling or gifting purposes and end up having your items confiscated or facing fines, it will definitely be a huge loss!"
Latest Japan Entry Requirements & Procedures
Shopaholic's Delight! 2-Day Osaka Shopping Extravaganza + Bonus Recommended Attractions
As Xiao's stay in Osaka is usually not too long, we have prepared a simple 2-day itinerary here. Since the focus is primarily on shopping, we have selected a few major attractions to visit, making it ideal for those who want to make a weekend getaway to Osaka or have 1-2 days dedicated to shopping.
If you feel like there's still more to explore, Xiao will also provide additional recommendations for attractions later on. So, join Xiao on this shopaholic's delight in Osaka and shop to your heart's content!
Day 1: Arrival at Kansai Airport → Namba (Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori)
Upon arrival at Kansai Airport, the first step is to head straight to the city center of Osaka.
Xiao recommends that time-conscious travelers can make use of the Kansai Airport's rapid airport train, "Rapi:t," which takes only 38 minutes to reach Namba.
Upon arrival at Namba, it's recommended to drop off your luggage at the hotel and immediately embark on your shopping adventure!
Book Now ▶ Nankai Line Airport Express Train Tickets (KIX or Namba Departure)
Where You Should Stay in Namba (Osaka): Best Areas & 33 Top Hotels For Visitors
Shinsaibashi
Shinsaibashi Shopping Street is packed with numerous drugstores, including Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Daikoku Drug, Sun Drug, Kokumin, Tsuruha Drug, and more.
If you want to compare prices and find the cheapest store, it's very convenient to do so.
On the second to fourth floors of Tsuruha Drug, you'll find Daiso Shinsaibashi-suji 2-chome. This store has spacious premises and a wide range of products, making it a favorite among international tourists.
(Image: PIXTA)
Apart from drugstores and 100-yen stores, Shinsaibashi is also home to many popular Japanese brand stores, such as UNIQLO, GU, Onitsuka Tiger, SENSE OF PLACE, BEAUTY & YOUTH, ROPE' PICNIC, and more, which are frequently visited by Xiao.
Additionally, there are numerous department stores in Shinsaibashi, including Daimaru and PARCO.
Xiao shares, "Since I often arrive at Shinsaibashi in the afternoon, my first stop after dropping off my luggage is usually the third floor of PARCO, where I indulge in HARBS' fruit-filled crepe cake! Furthermore, there's a croissant shop called 'Le Croissant' in Shinsaibashi that I always make sure to visit. Their croissants remain crispy and delicious even when they cool down. Highly recommended!"
Opposite Daimaru department store, you'll find Shinsaibashi OPA, which houses well-known Japanese fashion brands like SLY, MOUSSY, MURUA, as well as the 100-yen store CAN DO, making it a great place to explore.
Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store
1-7-1, Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Shinsaibashi
06-6271-1231
Namba Dotonbori
(Image: PIXTA)
At the end of Shinsaibashi Shopping Street near Namba, you'll find WEGO and H&M. Right next to them is the famous Dotonbori, Glico Running Man, and Don Quijote.
This area is filled with unique Osaka-style souvenir shops and delicious restaurants, such as Acchichi Honpo Takoyaki, Juuhachiban Takoyaki, Ichiran Ramen, and Kamukura.
It's a vibrant place where you can quickly immerse yourself in the energy and enthusiasm of Osaka. Grab a satisfying meal and recharge here before continuing your shopping spree.
Don Quijote Dotonbori Store.
7-13 Soemon-cho, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Namba
0570-026-511
Namba Station Area
The Underground Connection between Namba Parks and Nankai Namba Station. (Image: PIXTA)
If you feel like you haven't had enough of Shinsaibashi, you can continue the shopping spree in the vicinity of Namba Station. Here, you'll find large shopping malls such as Namba SkyO, Namba CITY, and Namba PARKS.
Xiao shares, "Personally, I love to shop at Namba CITY because they have Japanese fashion and accessories brands like KBF, SHEL'TTER, SNIDEL, and JILL by JILLSTUART. Especially during the discount season, it's a great place to explore and find good deals. There are also plenty of dining options available. If you don't have time to leisurely explore Shinsaibashi, I would recommend heading straight to Namba CITY."
NAMBA CITY
5-1-60, Nanba, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Namba
06-6644-2960
Namba Station Front District (Image: PIXTA)
In addition, Namba Station is home to several large electronics retailers, including BicCamera Namba, Edion Namba Honten, and Yamada Denki LABI1 Namba.
For those who are looking to purchase home appliances, it's recommended to visit these stores last before returning to the hotel to take stock of the day's shopping haul and relax.
BicCamera Discount Coupon
By using this discount coupon, you can not only enjoy tax-free shopping but also avail a 7% discount on items such as cameras, watches, electronics, toys, and contact lenses. Additionally, there is a 5% discount on items like medicines, cosmetics, food, and daily necessities, as well as a 3% discount on Japanese sake (excluding Dassai and Hakkaisan). Remember to present the coupon at the checkout counter in Bic Camera stores in Japan to enjoy these discounts!
Day 2: Namba Station → Rinku Premium Outlets
After checking out on the second day, you can continue exploring the area around Namba Station. Here, Xiao personally recommends Rikuro's Cheesecake, a popular cheesecake brand. It's just a 1-minute walk from the exit of Osaka Metro Namba Station.
Xiao says, "They open at 9:00 AM, and at that time, there usually aren't too many people. You don't have to worry about long queues whether you're getting it to-go or enjoying it in-store. Although the shelf life is only 2-3 days, it's great to buy and share with friends and family back home since I'll be returning there soon. I often get asked by my friends to buy it for them as well (laughs)."
Rikuro Namba Main Store
3-2-28, Nanba, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Namba
0120-57-2132
(Image: PIXTA)
After purchasing the cheesecake, you can conveniently take your luggage and head directly from Nankai Namba Station to Rinku Town.
This is a waterfront destination centered around Rinku Premium Outlets, which is the largest outlet mall in western Japan with over 200 stores. In 2020, a new Sea Side Area was added, offering accommodation facilities and restaurants with a view of the bay. You can easily spend a whole day exploring without any worries.
Xiao says, "Rinku Town is my top choice for shopping when I fly to Osaka! It's super close to the airport, and there are plenty of stores like MOUSSY, JEANASIS, and SLY. Since it's an outlet, you can often find great deals on products. Whenever you feel tired from shopping, you can find a place to sit down and enjoy a meal. Take a stroll outdoors, feel the sea breeze, and gaze at Osaka Bay. It's a perfect first or last stop when traveling to or from Kansai Airport."
Rinku Premium Outlets
3-28,Rinku-ourai Minami,Izumisano-shi,Osaka
Rinkutaun
072-458-4600
Additional Recommended Spots Personally Recommended by Xiao
Umeda
(Image: PIXTA)
Xiao shares, "In addition to Namba, another place in Osaka that I really love is Umeda! It's also filled with department stores and large shopping malls like Umeda Hankyu and LUCUA OSAKA, which are great for shopping. The food souvenir section on the first basement floor at Umeda Hankyu offers a wide variety of Osaka's local souvenirs, such as Sugar Butter Tree's 'Yokozuna' sugar butter sandwich cookies and Dojima Cake Rolls. They are absolutely delicious and worth buying. LUCUA OSAKA not only features many Japanese fashion brands but also has a Disney store to explore. I often find myself unintentionally spending an entire afternoon there."
Furthermore, Umeda offers attractions such as the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel and the Umeda Sky Building with its high observatory. It provides a diverse range of activities, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing entertainment, making it a must-visit destination that is highly popular among tourists.
LUCUA osaka
HEP FIVE
Umeda Sky Building Kuchu Teien Observatory
Book Now ▶ HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Ticket in Umeda
Book Online ▶ Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket in Osaka
▪Universal Studios Japan
(Image: PIXTA)
Universal Studios is undoubtedly one of the hottest and must-visit attractions in Osaka! If you have a longer duration for your trip, Xiao highly recommends allocating a whole day to explore Universal Studios.
In addition to the popular movie-themed attractions like Harry Potter, Minions, Spider-Man, and Jurassic Park, there is now also a Nintendo World for adventurous fun. The park offers various adorable limited-edition merchandise and souvenirs, ensuring a thrilling experience for both adults and children.
Xiao advises, "I strongly recommend purchasing the Express Pass if you plan to visit Universal Studios. Otherwise, you'll end up spending an eternity waiting in queues, which is a huge time waste. Even if you don't enter the park, you can still explore the 'Osaka Universal City Walk' outside and see if there's anything interesting to buy. It's worth a visit even if you don't have enough time to go inside Universal Studios."
Book Now ▶ Universal Studios Japan Express Pass 7
Book Now ▶ Universal Studios Japan Studio Pass
Universal Studios Japan: Guide to Osaka's Giant Theme Park Attractions
▪Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
(Image: PIXTA)
Xiao shares, "I really enjoy visiting aquariums, and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of my personal favorites. It features popular marine animals like whales, seals, and more. The interactive touch areas, which are not commonly found elsewhere, are also a highlight. It's always heartwarming to see families enjoying their time here. The gift shops offer unique merchandise with adorable packaging. Every time I buy something, I find it hard to give it away (laughs)."
Next to the aquarium, there is the Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Tempozan Harbor Village, where you can dine and shop. The entire area exudes a relaxing and joyful atmosphere, making it perfect for family outings or for those seeking some leisure time.
Book Now ▶ Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel Advance Tickets
Visiting Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Whale Shark Feeding, Guided Tour & More!
Review of Spoils! What did Xiao, the flight attendant, buy the most in Osaka?
(Photo: Provided by Xiao)
Xiao: "That's right, actually the things I buy the most in Osaka are instant noodles and snacks! I love snacks like Kansai soy sauce-flavored potato chips, Japanese konjac jelly, low-carb instant noodles that are rare in Taiwan, and unique flavors of instant noodles. I also often need to restock skincare and pharmaceutical products like face masks, horse oil lotion, and eye drops."
This photo is a previous haul that Xiao got in Osaka, taken around October during the Halloween season. Considering that Japan doesn't have major discount seasons during that time, Xiao skipped browsing clothing stores and focused on pharmaceuticals and food instead. They also visited the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and Universal Studios Japan during other times, showing a clear and targeted plan.
Browse Tax Free Online ▶ Skincare and Cosmetics
Browse Tax Free Online ▶ Chips & Snacks
Make the most of your time and have a fulfilling shopping journey in Osaka!
(Image: PIXTA)
Time is equally important for tourists visiting Japan, whether they are flight attendants or regular travelers. It's crucial to plan ahead and determine the places you want to visit and the items you want to buy during your trip. To make the most of your limited time for shopping in Osaka, you can consider the experiences and itineraries shared by the flight attendant. Plan a fulfilling shopping journey and make the most of your time in Osaka!
(*The content of this article is based on an interview conducted in December 2022, and there may be differences from the actual situation. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official websites of the respective facilities.)
Osaka Shopping Guide: Best Areas for Malls, Department Stores & More in Osaka Umeda
