Kuromon Market

Follow scents of spices and smoked goods into the covered alleyway of this bustling food market. Its popularity with chefs has earned it the nickname Osaka’s Kitchen.

At Kuromon Ichiba, Osaka's premier street food market, collect fresh vegetables, seafood or exotic meats for a meal at home. Sample fine produce that would please any gourmet. 

This ancient market dates back to the Meiji era of Japan, when it was called the Emmeiji Market, owing to the Emmeiji Temple located nearby. Its current name, Kuromon Ichiba (Black Gate), is a reference to a black gate that once stood near it and the temple.

The Kuromon Ichiba underpass extends just under 2,000 feet (600 metres) in length, housing around 170 shops. Much of the market’s clientele is chefs, but the general public also pick up their groceries here too. Join food experts and sniff out some of the most prized, fresh and high-quality ingredients Osaka has to offer.

Sample fresh sashimi or cooked fish at a seafood stall. Large oysters, grilled scallops and crab burgers are also on the menu. Watch skilful chefs carefully preparing fugu, a poisonous puffer fish, ensuring it is safe for consumption. Those brave enough can order their own serving of the Japanese delicacy.

Admire the even marbling of Kobe beef, which is one of the most highly sought-after Wagyu breeds. Other rare delicacies prepared in the market include baby octopus stuffed with quail egg. Although exotic, these meals are offered at reasonable prices.

Head to the fruit and vegetable section to admire painstakingly prepared displays. The stalls in this section are artfully stacked with fresh strawberries, jars of pickles and various Japanese root vegetables. 

Follow up your culinary experience here with a trip to nearby Namba district, just a few minutes’ walk south. This district is well known for its Sega gaming arcades, trendy fashion stores and the Namba Grand Kagetsu comedy hall. 

Kuromon Ichiba is located in central Osaka, just south of the Nippombashi subway station. Metered on-street parking is available near the market. Bring cash as few stalls accept card.