Nishi is a trendy neighbourhood filled with colourful cafes and boutiques. It’s set on the banks of the Kizu River and is a hotspot for artists and creatives. Relax in tree-filled parks, visit a beautiful Shinto shrine and watch baseball teams hit home runs at the world-class arena.
Things to do in Nishi
Escape the city traffic in Utsubo Park. It’s set on the site of a former US Army airfield and features grassy lawns and picturesque rose gardens. Stroll along tree-lined paths and enjoy a picnic on the grass. Stop to watch junior pros train at the state-of-the-art Utsubo Tennis Center.
Cross the Kizu River and attend a game at the landmark Kyocera Dome. The arena hosts professional baseball games and is housed in a futuristic shell. Cheer on the Orix Buffaloes and fill up on local baseball snacks like yakitori chicken skewers, Bento boxes and Japanese hotdogs topped with soy sauce, sesame seeds, teriyaki sauce and wasabi mayonnaise.
Samuhara Shrine is a historic gem tucked between modern buildings and apartment blocks. The serene Shinto shrine welcomes you with a beautiful torii gate and hanging paper lanterns. Walk around the landscaped gardens and purchase a good luck ring.
Admire works by contemporary artists at Tezukayama Gallery. Exhibits are carefully curated and feature local Japanese artists, as well as talent from Europe, America and Asia. Smaller galleries and studios pepper the Nishi neighbourhood and are great for souvenir shopping.
Pastel-pink cherry blossom trees frame Horie Park. The lively city square is a great place to relax and break up an afternoon of shopping. Chic bistros and boutiques line the surrounding streets. Enjoy lunch at a stylish café and shop for handcrafted homewares, small-batch perfumes and one-of-a-kind fashion.
Getting around Nishi
Nishi is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Several subway stations service the neighbourhood, including Nishi-Nagahori Station and Awaza Station. Osaka International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.