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In the bustling city center of Umeda, a futuristic building reaches the sky, that is the Umeda Sky Building. This 173-meter-high skyscraper is not only one of the city landmarks of Osaka, but also famous for the Kuchu Teien Observatory on the top floor. If you want to overlook the panoramic view of Osaka in a short time and experience the romance of the intersection of the city and the sky, this is the best choice.
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The Umeda Sky Building was built in 1993 and designed by the world-renowned architect Hiroshi Hara. The entire building consists of two 40-story buildings in the north and south, which are connected to the circular observatory through the top-level aerial bridge, forming a spectacular scene like a "gate in the sky". From a distance, the entire building looks like a building in a modern science fiction movie, with great visual impact. Whether it is day or night, it is the most eye-catching existence in Umeda.
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The building is located at 1-chome, Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka City, with extremely convenient transportation:
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It is about a 10-minute walk from the Umeda Station on the Midosuji Line of the subway
It is about a 7-minute walk from the Central North Exit of JR Osaka Station
Go along the "Umeda Underground Street" and pass through the "Shin-Umeda Shokudo Street" to arrive
It is recommended that travelers go during the day as much as possible. The route is clearly marked and you can enjoy the scenery of Osaka city along the way.
The Sky Garden Observatory of Umeda Sky Building is open all year round, from 9:30 am to 10:30 pm every day, and the latest admission time is 10 pm. Whether it is to enjoy the panoramic view of the city during the day or overlook the brightly lit Osaka at night, it can meet the viewing needs of different travelers.
The ticket price for the observatory is 1,500 yen for adults and 700 yen for children (4 years old to elementary school students), while children under 4 years old can enter for free. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window or ticket vending machine on site, or you can make an appointment in advance through the official website or travel platform to avoid queuing on site.
If you want to avoid the crowds, it is recommended that travelers choose to enter before 10 am or after 5 pm. Especially at dusk, not only is the temperature pleasant, but you can also see the charming scenery of the sunset over the city, which is the golden time for viewing.
1. Transparent viewing elevator: a surprising journey before taking off
Take the transparent elevator from the 3rd floor to the 35th floor, and then take the escalator to the entrance of the Sky Garden on the 39th floor. This elevator is like a space capsule. As the height rises, the scenery in front of you becomes more and more shocking. It is the first stop for many tourists to take photos and check in.
2. 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka
The observatory is located on the 40th floor of the building. The outdoor observatory is designed in a circular shape and is completely open. You can see:
East: Osaka Castle, Tempozan Ferris Wheel
West: Akashi Strait, Awaji Island
South: Namba, Abeno Harukas
North: Mountain view in the direction of Kyoto
Whether it is the clear view under the blue sky and white clouds during the day or the brightly lit city lights at night, it is a visual feast.
3. Lovers' sanctuary: Lover's Seat
The observatory is equipped with a "lover's seat" for two people and a "heart-shaped lock wall" symbolizing love. Couples can take photos and lock memories here, making it a popular date spot.
The sky garden at night is particularly dreamy. The ground of the observatory is paved with fluorescent stones, as if you are on the Avenue of Stars. The night view of Nakanoshima in the distance, the neon lights of Dotonbori, and the sea of lights of densely packed high-rise buildings in Umeda complement each other, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
If time permits, you can choose to climb to the top at night to enjoy the gradual beauty from sunset to night, which is a profound visual experience.
1. Café SKY 40: Enjoy the scenery while drinking coffee
The observatory has a cafe that provides light meals, coffee, beer and other drinks. It is recommended to sit by the floor-to-ceiling glass windows and enjoy the leisure time in the sky.
2. Souvenir shop
There is a souvenir shop downstairs, selling models, key chains, postcards, etc. related to the Umeda Building, which are suitable for gifts or collections.
After visiting the Umeda Sky Building, you may also visit the following attractions:
Grand Front Osaka: shopping, food, exhibitions
Umeda Underground Street Whity: one of the largest underground shopping malls in Osaka
HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel: another good choice for overlooking downtown Osaka
Nakanoshima Park and Library: a green and cultural walking route
The square below the building: you can take a complete picture of the Umeda Sky Building twin towers + sky bridge
Climb to the top in the evening: capture the dreamy picture of Osaka and the fluorescent stones on the ground of the observatory under the sunset
Lovers' Seat Background: leave a romantic memory for couples' photos
Travel Tips
It is recommended to bring a coat in winter, and the outdoor observatory is windy
Drones are not allowed on the observatory
There may be queues for tickets during peak hours, so it is recommended to make an online reservation in advance
Please pay attention to the privacy of others when taking photos and avoid occupying popular photo spots for a long time
See the magnificence and romance of Osaka at a glance Umeda Sky Building is not only an architectural wonder, but also a "secret place in the sky" in the eyes of every tourist. Here, the hustle and bustle of the city seems to have subsided, replaced by an unobstructed view and a relaxed mood. Whether you are visiting Osaka for the first time or an old friend who has visited many times, this towering landmark is always worth your climb to the top and marvel again. Don't hesitate, start your next trip to Osaka from the Umeda Sky Building's sky garden!
