Nagoya’s shopping streets, known as shotengai, offer a unique mix of history, culture, and shopping experiences. These covered arcades, designed to shield shoppers from the elements, have been central to Japanese commerce for centuries. While some retain their traditional charm, others have evolved into bustling hubs of fashion, food, and entertainment.
Below are some of Nagoya’s must-visit shopping streets, each offering a distinct experience.
Endoji Shopping Street – A Nostalgic Journey
One of Nagoya’s oldest shopping streets, Endoji Shotengai dates back to the Edo period. Once a bustling merchant area, it has a charming retro atmosphere with old-fashioned stores, family-run restaurants, and artisan workshops. Recently, a wave of young entrepreneurs has brought in trendy cafes, boutique stores, and craft shops, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a blend of the past and present.
Nearby Attractions:
Shikemichi Historical District – A beautifully preserved area showcasing Edo-period merchant houses.
Nagoya Castle – One of Nagoya’s most famous landmarks, just a short walk away.
Chojamachi Textile Town – Nagoya’s Fabric & Fashion Hub
Unlike the traditional covered shotengai, Chojamachi Textile Town (pictured above) is an open street with a deep-rooted history in Nagoya’s textile industry. While it remains a go-to destination for fabric, kimono materials, and tailoring supplies, the area has evolved to include modern fashion boutiques, art galleries, and design studios.
Beneath the street lies Fushimi Underground Mall, one of Japan’s oldest underground shopping areas, opened in 1957. This historic mall, connected to Fushimi Station, is home to a diverse mix of cafes, restaurants, bars, galleries, and fashion shops, making it a great place to explore.
Chojamachi is also a hub for occasional markets, street festivals, and cultural events, adding a lively atmosphere to its historic charm.
Nearby Attractions:
Nagoya City Science Museum – Home to one of the world’s largest planetariums.
Nagoya City Art Museum – Showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works from Japan, Mexico, and the École de Paris movement..
Osu Shopping Street – Nagoya’s Cultural & Shopping Hotspot
One of Nagoya’s most famous shopping streets, Osu is a lively mix of traditional and modern culture. Originally a temple town, it is now home to over 1,200 shops, offering everything from electronics and anime goods to vintage fashion and street food. The area is a must-visit for those looking to explore Japan’s pop culture, second-hand treasures, and Nagoya’s local specialties.
Highlights of Osu:
Osu Kannon Temple – A historic Buddhist temple at the heart of the district.
Otaku Culture – Anime, manga, and gaming stores similar to Akihabara.
Osu Street Food – Try miso katsu, tebasaki (chicken wings), and taiyaki (sweet fish-shaped cakes).
Other Notable Shopping Streets
Shikemichi Historic District
A preserved merchant quarter near Endoji, featuring Edo-period warehouses and unique boutiques, cafes, and craft shops.
Ozone Shopping Street
A lesser-known but authentic shotengai, Ozone offers a local experience with family-run stores, small eateries, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Yaba-cho & Sakae Underground Malls
Located near Sakae Station, these extensive underground shopping malls feature a mix of department stores, brand outlets, and boutique fashion shops.
Getting Around Nagoya’s Shopping Streets
Endoji & Chojamachi – Take the Sakura-dori Line to Kokusai Center Station, then walk east to Chojamachi-dori.
Osu Shopping Street – Take the Tsurumai or Meijo Line to Osu Kannon Station.
Shikemichi & Ozone – Easily accessible via Nagoya’s subway and local bus lines.
Sakae & Yaba-cho – Connected to the Higashiyama, Meijo, and Meitetsu subway lines.
Nagoya’s shopping streets offer a unique blend of history, culture, and retail experiences, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the city’s diverse shopping scene.
