Umeda Sky Building

Umeda Sky Building is a 40-story, 173-meter-tall skyscraper located in the Umeda area of Kita Ward, Osaka. Completed in 1993, it was designed by the world-renowned architect Hiroshi Hara. Its original design has earned high praise both in Japan and abroad, and it is also known as the only building from Japan selected for “The World’s Top 20 Buildings” by the British newspaper THE TIMES.

Architectural Beauty and Structural Features
Umeda Sky Building consists of two towers, the East Tower “Tower East” and the West Tower “Tower West,” joined at the top by a circular structure. This unique design is one of its defining features. Located in this connecting section is the “Floating Garden Observatory,” whose form seems to hover in the sky and leaves a powerful impression on visitors.

Its exterior, with glass surfaces reflecting the blue sky and a bold architectural form, gives the impression that the building and the sky are one. Tower West houses cultural facilities such as event halls and a museum, while Tower East contains a movie theater, the entrance to the Floating Garden Observatory, and a bus terminal, making the building versatile for a variety of purposes.

The Appeal of the Floating Garden Observatory
The Floating Garden Observatory, the biggest highlight of Umeda Sky Building, consists of three levels: the 39th floor, the 40th floor, and the rooftop.

On the 39th floor, there is the UMEDA SKY BUILDING GALLERY SHOP, which offers goods and original items by artists from the Kansai region. It is perfect for finding a gift for someone special or a souvenir for yourself. There is also a bar lounge where you can enjoy meals and drinks while taking in the night view, allowing you to savor a refined adult atmosphere.

On the 40th floor, you will find café SKY 40, a café space with a 35-meter-long glass counter. Here, you can enjoy carefully prepared coffee and colorful soda floats while feeling as if you are floating in the sky.

In addition, the “see-through escalator” from the 35th to the 39th floor is a popular photo spot, offering the sensation of traveling through the air.

On the rooftop, the open-air observation area called “Sky Walk” stretches out, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka in every direction. From the lively daytime cityscape to the sunset sky and the night view, visitors can enjoy different charms no matter when they visit.

If you would like to experience the popular “Heart Lock” at the observatory, it is recommended that you purchase a web ticket with a Heart Lock in advance.

A Retro Underground World: Takimi Koji
In the basement of Umeda Sky Building lies Takimi Koji, an underground area that recreates the streetscape of Japan in the Showa era. A wide variety of restaurants serving Japanese cuisine, ramen, sweets, and more line the passageways, allowing visitors to enjoy dining and tea in an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. It is also a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Shin-Umeda City, Where Urban Life and Nature Meet
Umeda Sky Building stands at the center of Shin-Umeda City, an urban development area designed to combine high-rise architecture with lush natural surroundings. Even in the middle of the city, there are places where visitors can relax on benches and find comfort in seasonal flowers and greenery. Events and markets are also held throughout the year, making it a beloved destination for many people.

A Community-Based Summer Festival and Shin-Umeda City Ondo
Since 1995, two years after Umeda Sky Building was completed, an annual Summer Festival has been held in Shin-Umeda City. The venue, Wonder Square, spans about 2,500 square meters. When the yagura tower is set up and lanterns are lit, the scene evokes a nostalgic Japanese summer atmosphere. Enjoyed by both adults and children, this festival has become an important event that deepens ties with the local community.

In 2016, the Shin-Umeda City Ondo was also created. The music was composed by Tsukasa Okazaki, who also works on the music for Gekidan Shinkansen, the lyrics were written by employees of Umeda Sky Building, and the song was performed by folk singer Kaori Kitsu. The lyrics are filled with the charms of Shin-Umeda City, and many people enjoy dancing to this song during events.

With its architectural beauty, spectacular views, nostalgic Showa-era underground streets, harmony with nature, and events that grow together with the local community, Umeda Sky Building is full of diverse attractions that cannot be fully experienced in just one visit.