After a visit to the ‘art island’ of Nakanoshima, steer your steps to nearby Higobashi for further inspiration in the form of art books from around the world. Having celebrated 20 years in business in 2024, Calo is an essential stop on the Osaka bookstore circuit, boasting a diverse and stimulating selection of tomes covering everything from photography to film and music, with a healthy portion of self-published books and zines thrown in too.
Hidden away on the fifth floor, the shop includes a gallery, with exhibitions featuring mainly Kansai-based artists but occasionally highlighting works and publications from further afield – one recent event shone the spotlight on Indonesian indie publishers. Once you’re done browsing, peruse your finds in peace and quiet over a cup of black tea and some chicken curry or cookies at the in-house café.