Tenma

Tenma (天満) is a lively district located in Kita Ward, Osaka, Japan. It is renowned for its historic shopping street, Tenjinbashi-suji (天神橋筋商店街), which, at approximately 2.6 kilometers long, is one of the longest shopping streets in Japan.

Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a vast array of shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling everything from clothing and accessories to food and souvenirs. The street is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. The shrine hosts the Tenjin Matsuri festival, held annually in July, which is considered one of the major festivals in Japan. During the festival’s eve (July 24th), numerous food stalls line Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street and the surrounding area.

Beyond shopping and sightseeing, Tenma is also celebrated for its vibrant food scene. Numerous local restaurants serve traditional Osaka dishes such as okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake), takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). The district also boasts a thriving nightlife, with many izakayas (Japanese pubs) and bars attracting crowds after dark.

The heart of Tenma is Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, a prominent symbol of the district. Tenma Market, bustling with locals, offers fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits. Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street, with its covered arcade, ensures a pleasant shopping experience regardless of the weather, with around 600 shops lining the street. For those seeking a more trendy atmosphere, Uratenma, located behind the shopping street, features a cluster of stylish cafes and bars.

Getting there

From Osaka Station to Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street:

Train	Osaka Station ↓ Osaka Loop Line ↓ 2 minutes (Nonstop) Tenma Station ↓ Walk about 5 minutes ↓ Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street
Walk	About 20 minutes (1.4 km)