Tokyo has Ginza; Osaka has Shinchi in Kita. Its gateway is Dojima Avanza — where Mainichi Newspapers Osaka HQ once stood. After moving to Nishi-Umeda ~20 years ago, Mainichi and two major insurers built this landmark (1999). Palaceside Building's sibling — Junkudo Osaka flagship inside.
In the garden stands Dojima Yakushi-do — striking mirrored facade. Legend says Prince Shotoku built a hall here when storm-tossed timber for Shitenno-ji drifted ashore. Sandwiched by Dojima and Sonezaki rivers, the island became "Dojima."
Besides Yakushi, Jizo and Kobo Daishi are enshrined. Elderly neighbors pray; salarymen stop before drinks — prosperity for business or popularity in Shinchi?
A Kita power spot — visit when in Kansai.