Nakanoshima may be a peaceful park today, but what would the riverbanks tell us about the history of the trading houses from the 17th Century, when it was dubbed the kitchen of Japan for its rice warehouses? This gentle waterway linked Shikoku and Kyushu to Osaka, bringing stories and treasures on the Seikai route. Beyond Nagasaki, Portuguese and Dutch ships weres Japan's lifeline to China, Malacca, Goa, and Europe on the Medieval Silk Road, so imagine the look on the faces of merchants seeing for the first time, from telescopes to Persian rugs, some of which adorn the floats of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri.
In the 19th and 20th Centuries, Nakanoshima became a center of culture and modernity, with the advent of railways and larger ports, these warehouses were converted into Commercial and Administrative buildings, such as the Sumitomo Bank. The hustle and bustle of this river trade were replaced with calm and greenery, as showcased in Osaka’s first park. Nearby Naniwabashi looks distinctly Parisen, though the entrance to this bridge is guarded by some British-looking lion statues.
A great way to explore is a river cruise, from which the Riverside Grill and Beer Garden takes its cues from. From the reception, you can choose one of two aspects. The park side facing the rose garden has pleasant outdoor tables like you are having a barbeque at a friend’s place. The riverside, on the other hand, has indoor and outdoor seating. Actually, you can sit right next to the river. It is like you are on a boat, watching other boats go past you.
With its emphasis on al fresco dining, it is no wonder that this restaurant, like many summer beer gardens, has a seasonal opening period. Each year it is open from the second week of March (the beginning of Spring) to Christmas Day.
You can enjoy the barbeque menu for lunch or dinner, with a la carte or buffet options. For the famished, the Samgyeopsal course offers a 3-hour buffet with unlimited food and alcohol for ¥5,500, while the premium barbeque course is ¥6,500 recommended as you can enjoy beef, pork, and chicken. Children under 12 can have the buffet for half price.
If you are a Line friend with "beer gardens.jp", you can also get a ¥300 discount coupon. Of course, if you really enjoy the atmosphere here, you can work here as well on a short or long-term basis, as many supervisors started here with no or limited experience.
Reservations are available online, or for a snack such as karaage deep fried chicken or other finger food, you can just turn up and order from the takeaway counter.
