Bar
Akashic Records
Osaka Cocktail Library Akashic RecordsSome booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
Hidden on the third floor of a nondescript building in the bustling Shinsaibashisuji shopping arcade, Akashic Records is a bar that feels like stepping into another world. The interior is dimly lit with vintage furniture, shelves of antique books, and occult-themed decor that evokes the concept of a cosmic library. The bartenders are skilled mixologists who create bespoke cocktails based on your preferences, often using rare spirits and house-made infusions. The menu changes seasonally, with drinks named after celestial bodies or mystical concepts. The atmosphere is intimate and quiet, perfect for conversation or solitary reflection. Despite its hidden location, the bar has garnered a loyal following among locals and travelers seeking a unique nightlife experience in Osaka.
Don't miss
- Order a custom cocktail based on your personality or mood
- Admire the antique book collection and occult decor
- Try the signature 'Akashic Sour' with egg white and bitters
- Enjoy the intimate, quiet atmosphere away from Shinsaibashi's crowds
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Akashic Records
You can visit on your own (No cover charge; pay for drinks as ordered. Reservations recommended for weekends). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inExperience Extracting Pearls From Akoya Oysters osaka4.7★ · 23 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$22 per personSee dates →
Most bookedHungry Osaka Street Food Tour:15 Tastings & 3 Drinks with a Local5★ · 2,864 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$70 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleOsaka Kickstart: Hotspots & Hidden Gems Tour4.9★ · 1,777 travelers3-7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$43 per personSee dates →Know before you go
- The bar opens around 7 PM; check their social media for exact hours.
- No food menu, but they may have light snacks. Eat beforehand.
- Keep conversation low; the bar values a quiet, contemplative vibe.
- Cash only is common; bring enough yen for your tab.
A bit of history
Opened in the mid-2010s, Akashic Records quickly became a staple of Osaka's speakeasy scene. Its name references the esoteric Akashic records, a theosophical concept of a universal library of all knowledge. The bar's design and cocktail program reflect this theme, drawing inspiration from mysticism and the occult.
Common questions
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual is recommended; no shorts or flip-flops.
Can I take photos?
Yes, but avoid flash to respect other guests.
Do they have non-alcoholic options?
Yes, they can make mocktails upon request.
Is it easy to find?
Look for the building with a small sign reading 'Akashic Records' near the entrance.
Do they take credit cards?
Many speakeasies in Osaka are cash-only; it's best to bring cash.
Can I bring a group?
The bar is small; groups of 4 or fewer are ideal. Reserve ahead.
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