Umeda Sky Building: A Floating Oasis in the Sky
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Osaka from the iconic Umeda Sky Building's Floating Garden Observatory.
The Umeda Sky Building, also known as New Umeda City, is a distinctive skyscraper in Osaka's Kita district, near Umeda and Osaka Stations. Designed by architect Hiroshi Hara and completed in 1993, it stands 173 meters tall and consists of two 40-story towers connected at the top by the Floating Garden Observatory. Originally planned as a four-tower complex, the economic downturn of the 1980s led to the current two-tower structure. The Floating Garden Observatory offers 360-degree panoramic views of Osaka. Visitors can enjoy both indoor and open-air viewing decks. The observatory is reached by taking an elevator to the 35th floor, followed by a glass-enclosed escalator that traverses between the two towers. This escalator is known as the world's highest escalator. In addition to the observatory, the Umeda Sky Building features a basement-level restaurant floor called Takimi Koji, which replicates a town from the early Showa Period (1920s Japan). The building also houses the Cine Libre Umeda, a cinema showcasing independent films. The base of the towers includes gardens and green spaces. The Umeda Sky Building is open daily from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM, with last entry at 10:00 PM. Admission for adults is ¥2,000, and for children (ages 4-12) is ¥500.
Local tips
- Visit the Floating Garden Observatory around sunset for stunning views of the city as the lights begin to twinkle.
- Explore the Takimi Koji gourmet street in the basement to experience a taste of 1920s Japan.
- Take the glass-enclosed escalator between the two towers for a unique and thrilling experience.
- Check the official website for special events or seasonal variations in opening hours.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential lines, especially during peak hours.
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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Walking
From Osaka Station, the Umeda Sky Building is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Exit the station on the north side and follow signs for Grand Front Osaka. Walk along the outdoor promenade of the Grand Front Osaka South Building. Cross the street dividing the Grand Front's south and north halls, and look for an underground walkway on the left side of the intersection. Go through the walkway, and you will exit adjacent to the Umeda Sky Building.
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Public Transport
From Umeda Station (Midosuji Line), follow signs to the Umeda Sky Building, which is about a 10-minute walk. Follow the underground walkway as described in the 'Walking' directions to reach the building. Subway fare from Namba Station to Umeda Station is approximately ¥240.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from most major points in Osaka. A taxi ride from Osaka Station to the Umeda Sky Building will typically cost between ¥700 and ¥900, depending on traffic. Ensure the taxi driver knows the destination, as there are many tall buildings in the Umeda area.
