I hope you find my previous article on Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. helpful.

If your travels take you to Osaka, let me share a hidden gem intimately connected with Takashimaya Osaka that might surprise many.

Takashimaya Archives: A Journey Through Time

In my earlier post, I touched upon the origins of Takashimaya – evolving from a modest used clothing and cotton cloth store to a prestigious department store brand over 190 years. The Takashimaya Archives offers a unique window into this storied history, complete with the company’s endearing mascot, Rose-chan.

2024 marks the 65th anniversary of Rose-chan, and there’s a special exhibition running until July 1st where visitors can appreciate a collection of vintage, historic, and limited-edition Rose-chan dolls up close.

Located a mere six-minute walk from Takashimaya Osaka, the Takashimaya Archives building is a separate entity from the main department store.

What Awaits at Takashimaya Archives

The Archives serve as a multi-faceted space, incorporating an art gallery, museum, Archives Exhibition Room and Special Exhibition Room showcasing a diverse range of artworks and documents that narrate the store’s rich history.

With both Archives Exhibition Room and Special Exhibition Room, it’s an ideal venue not only for those keen to delve into the Takashimaya brand’s legacy but also for anyone interested in Japanese culture and arts.

For those who have experienced shopping at Takashimaya, whether in Japan or at its international locations, the iconic motifs adorning the paper bags are a familiar sight.

A special section is dedicated to showcasing these past designs, providing a visual journey through the evolution of the brand’s gift wrapping motifs and uniforms. I am particularly fond of the visually pleasant floral pink motif, and secretly admired Takashimaya’s sense in aesthetic and design, reflecting its influence on retail packaging trends.

The digital timeline at the Takashimaya Archives introduces an interactive touch screen feature, accessible in English, allowing visitors to explore the chronological history of Takashimaya in an engaging way.

This digital journey highlights key milestones and locations significant to Takashimaya’s expansion and evolution. Among the discoveries to be made is the mention of the launch of Takashimaya at Ngee Ann City–a landmark destination all Singaporeans would be familiar with!

Until July 1, 2024, there’s a whimsical treat in store at the exhibition hall – a special collection featuring over 100 Rose-chan dolls, each boasting unique sizes, outfits, and designs.

It’s a delightful parade of Takashimaya’s beloved mascot, showcasing the diversity and creativity behind each version of Rose-chan. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering Rose-chan for the first time, this exhibit offers a charming glimpse into the playful side of Takashimaya’s heritage.

In the collection, you’ll find precious vintage Rose-chan dolls, symbols of “omotenashi” or hospitality, crafted decades ago to warmly welcome Takashimaya’s customers.

Takashimaya Archives Address:

〒556-0005 Osaka, Naniwa Ward, Nipponbashi, 3 Chome−5−25, Takashimaya East Building, 3F

Opening hours: 10:00-17:00, closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, exhibition replacement period and year end holidays.

Takashimaya Osaka

Let’s dive into the world of Takashimaya Osaka, hailed as the premier department store in Osaka. Perfectly positioned for your travel itinerary, it’s the ideal first stop after touching down at Kansai International Airport or the last destination before your departure.

But why, you ask?

Takashimaya Osaka enjoys a prime location, directly connected to the Nankai Railway that links it with Kansai International Airport. Simply hop off at Nankai Namba Station, and voilà – you’re greeted by the welcoming facade of Takashimaya Osaka right before your eyes!

This unbeatable convenience positions Takashimaya Osaka as the perfect spot to pick up anything you might need upon arrival in Kansai, or for those final shopping dashes before you jet off back home.

Whether it’s a must-have item you forgot to pack or a last-minute gift, Takashimaya Osaka has you covered.

Kuromon Market Maguro no Entoki

Situated near the ever-popular Kuromon Market, Takashimaya Osaka offers an escape from the bustling crowds.

On the 7th floor, you’ll find Maguro no Entoki, a restaurant that specializes in delectable tuna bowls. It’s a perfect spot to indulge in some of the finest blue fin tuna without navigating the throngs of people.

Indulge in an assortment of fresh bluefin tuna cuts, including akami, chutoro, and marinated akami, all for just JPY 2,980.

B1: Food Paradise

As always, a trip to Takashimaya isn’t complete without a visit to my favorite spot: the food department on B1.

Here, you’ll find an irresistible array of sweet and savory delights, including seasonal limited editions available only for a short time each year. It’s the perfect place to discover unique souvenirs that capture the essence of your travels, offering something truly special to bring back home.

During my visit at the end of March, the place was abloom with cherry blossom-themed tidbits, celebrating the beautiful spring season in full swing.

Got a sweet tooth? The pastries and cakes available make for the perfect snack to take back to your hotel, ready to be savored at any moment.

Useful Facilities

Just like other Takashimaya stores I have featured before, there are thoughtful facilities designed for the utmost comfort of shoppers. For example, you can find a top-notch nursery room, just as I highlighted in my article on Takashimaya Kyoto.

For international visitors, remember to take advantage of the tax refund counter to enjoy maximum benefits.

And there’s more – make sure to pick up a Takashimaya Shopper’s Card, which currently features an adorable Hello Kitty with Osaka Castle design, to receive a 5% off as well as tax refund.

However, keep a few important points in mind:

• Only applicable to purchase of JPY3000 (tax excluded) and above.
• The card is given only to those who meet the tax-free requirements.
• Only individuals with a verifiable passport are eligible to use it.
• Certain products may not be eligible for discounts.

Happy shopping at Takashimaya! I hope you have a fantastic experience in the Kansai region of Japan!