Umeda Sky Building: Floating Garden Oasis
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka from the iconic Umeda Sky Building's Floating Garden Observatory, a fusion of modern and retro charm.
The Umeda Sky Building, also known as the "New Umeda City", is a landmark in Osaka's Kita district, near Osaka and Umeda stations. This 173-meter-tall structure consists of two 40-story towers connected by the remarkable Floating Garden Observatory on the 39th floor. Designed by Hiroshi Hara and completed in 1993, the building was initially envisioned as four interconnected towers, but the concept was scaled down to two. The Floating Garden Observatory provides 360-degree panoramic views of Osaka. Visitors can enjoy the cityscape from behind windows or step onto the open-air deck. The observatory is reached by taking an elevator to the 35th floor, followed by a ride on a glass-enclosed escalator that traverses between the two towers. This escalator is known as one of the world's highest, offering a thrilling experience. In the building's basement, you'll find Takimi Koji Gourmet Street, a dining area that recreates a Japanese townscape from the 1920s. This retro-themed street offers a variety of restaurants serving traditional Osaka cuisine. The Umeda Sky Building also features a Sky Walk, shops for souvenirs, and Cafe Sky 40 on the 40th floor. The building is located near the Grand Front shopping complex and Osaka Station.
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for a romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the city lights.
- Explore Takimi Koji Gourmet Street in the basement for a taste of traditional Osaka cuisine in a retro setting.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting to ensure clear visibility from the Floating Garden Observatory.
A brief summary to Umeda Sky Building
- 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Osaka, 1 Chome Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, JP
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Osaka Station (JR Line), head towards the North Central Exit and walk northwest for about 10-15 minutes. From Umeda Station (Hankyu Line), exit via the Chayamachi Gate Exit and walk northwest for about 15 minutes. From Umeda Station (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line), exit from the Midosuji South Exit and walk north for around 15 minutes. Consider purchasing a rechargeable IC card (ICOCA, SUICA, or PASMO) for easy travel on trains and buses. Single subway fares in Osaka typically range from ¥180 to ¥330 depending on the distance.
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Walking
From Osaka Station, the Umeda Sky Building is approximately a 7-minute walk. Head towards the North side of Osaka Station and follow the signs for Grand Front Osaka. Walk along the outdoor promenade of the south hall of the Grand Front complex. The Umeda Sky Building will be visible to your left. Use the underground walkway on the left side of the street dividing Grand Front's south and north halls. The walkway leads directly to the Umeda Sky Building. This is a free option.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Osaka. Hail a taxi from anywhere in the city and ask to be taken to the Umeda Sky Building. A taxi ride from Umeda Station to the Umeda Sky Building typically costs between ¥1,300 and ¥1,600 and takes about 2 minutes. Be aware that taxi fares can be more expensive during peak hours.
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Car
If driving, use the address 1-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-0076, Japan for GPS navigation. Parking is available at the Umeda Sky Building Underground Parking. The parking fee is ¥500 for the first hour and ¥250 for each subsequent 30 minutes. Alternative parking is available at Osaka Station City Parking (8-minute walk) and Hankyu Umeda Main Store Parking (7-minute walk).
