Location and Character of Sennichimae
The name Sennichimae is connected to Hozenji Temple and the former Chikurinji Temple, both located in the neighboring Namba area. At Hozenji, Buddhist prayers known as Sen’nichi Nenbutsu were traditionally recited, and the temple was also known as “Sen’nichi-dera.”
The area in front of the temple therefore came to be called Sennichimae, meaning “in front of Sen’nichi.” Today, the name is commonly used not only for Sennichimae 1-chome and 2-chome but also for the Namba-Sennichimae area extending to the south.
A Lively Entertainment District
Sennichimae lies southeast of the Dotonbori River and is surrounded by a wide variety of entertainment facilities. Because of its location and lively atmosphere, it is a popular sightseeing destination, and many visitors exploring Dotonbori also stop in Sennichimae.
The neighborhood combines long-established theaters and entertainment venues with modern restaurants, shopping centers, and specialty stores. This mixture of old and new is one of the defining characteristics of Sennichimae.
History of Sennichimae
From the Edo Period to the Meiji Period
The history of Sennichimae can be traced back to the early Edo period. At the time, the area formed part of Namba Village and Nishikozu Village in Nishinari District and had a largely rural character.
Following the Siege of Osaka, a large cemetery known as Sennichi Cemetery was established in 1615 in the area southeast of Chikurinji Temple. The site included not only a cemetery but also an execution ground and cremation facilities.
The presence of the cemetery gave rise to numerous stories and legends associated with the area. During the Edo period, Sennichimae also became part of a route used for the public parading of prisoners through the city on their way to the execution ground. Various events unfolded in the district throughout the Edo period.
Changes After the Meiji Restoration
With the beginning of the Meiji period, Sennichimae underwent major changes. The execution ground was abolished, and the cemetery was later relocated to Abeno.
As these former facilities disappeared, commercial establishments began to increase, marking the beginning of Sennichimae’s development as a busy urban entertainment district.
In 1885, the Hankai Railway, now part of Nankai Electric Railway, opened Namba Station. The resulting increase in pedestrian traffic helped Sennichimae become even more active.
The Great Minami Fire
In 1912, a major fire broke out in Namba-Shinchi and destroyed a large area, including Sennichimae. Known as the Great Minami Fire, the disaster destroyed numerous buildings around Dotonbori and the surrounding entertainment district.
Following the fire, the president of Nankai Railway planned to rebuild Sennichimae as a modern leisure center. In 1913, this plan led to the establishment of Sennichi Tochi Tatemono, commonly known as Sento-chi.
The Rakutenchi Leisure Center
In 1914, a large entertainment complex called Rakutenchi was built at the southwest corner of the Sennichimae intersection.
The three-story building featured numerous spires and rounded domes. At night, its exterior was illuminated, making it one of the most striking modern entertainment facilities of its time.
Inside were a large theater and a smaller theater where plays and films were presented. The basement even featured attractions such as a merry-go-round and an aquarium.
A Center for Film and Theater
Following the opening of Rakutenchi, numerous cinemas and theaters moved into Sennichimae. The district developed into a major entertainment area comparable to Dotonbori.
The evolution of Sento-chi, the establishment of the Osaka Kabukiza, and regular performances of Kansai Kabuki by Shochiku all contributed to Sennichimae’s emergence as an important center of Osaka’s cultural and entertainment scene.
The Sennichi Department Store Fire
The Sennichi Department Store opened in Sennichimae in 1958. In 1972, however, the building was the site of a devastating fire that resulted in many deaths and injuries.
After the fire, the damaged building remained unused for many years. Demolition was completed in 1981, and in 1984, the Escal Building opened on the site.
The location is now occupied by a commercial complex that includes Bic Camera Namba and other businesses.
Sennichimae After World War II
Sennichimae was once again reduced to a largely devastated area by air raids during World War II. After the war, however, the district was rebuilt and gradually revived as a center for theaters, comedy, and dining.
Yoshimoto Kogyo also established theaters in the surrounding area after the war, helping strengthen Sennichimae’s identity as one of Osaka’s leading entertainment districts.
Modern Sennichimae
Today, Sennichimae is home to popular shopping destinations such as Bic Camera and Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street, which is well known for stores specializing in kitchenware and restaurant supplies.
The area is also filled with restaurants and casual eateries, many of which remain lively late into the evening. Visitors can experience a distinctly Osaka atmosphere while exploring its shops, food, entertainment, and historic streets.
A Meeting Point of History and Entertainment
Sennichimae brings together layers of Osaka’s history with the city’s modern entertainment culture. Along with nearby Dotonbori and Hozenji, it is one of the well-known sightseeing areas of Osaka’s Minami district.
A walk through Sennichimae offers visitors a chance to experience both the long history of Osaka and the energetic atmosphere of the city today.