The Best Observation Decks in Osaka

Looking for the best spots to enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka's cityscape? Osaka has several popular observation decks where you can enjoy beautiful scenery day and night. From contemporary skyscrapers to ancient landmarks, you can experience the charm of Osaka from various locations. In this guide, we'll showcase the must-visit observation decks for your Osaka excursion. Be sure to include these popular spots in your Osaka sightseeing itinerary to create unforgettable memories.

Osaka’s Breathtaking Views

Osaka is one of Japan's largest cities, known for its urban landscape lined with skyscrapers. From the observation decks, you can overlook Osaka's cityscape during the day and enjoy the beautiful night view after dark. During the day, soak in a 360-degree panoramic vista of Osaka, with a vast sense of openness stretching into the distance. As night falls, prepare to be mesmerized by the city's breathtaking illumination, transforming it into a radiant jewel box flipped upside down. 

You can also enjoy taking photos of the panoramic views at the observation decks, or have professional photos taken with your family or friends using paid photo services that these establishments offer. Many spots also feature explanatory panels and exhibits where you can learn about the area's history and culture.

Popular Areas in Osaka

Below are some of the most popular sightseeing areas in Osaka.

Umeda

The center of Osaka, characterized by its modern cityscape lined with skyscrapers. It is the largest commercial area in the Kansai region, with many large shopping malls and department stores.

Namba

Located in the southern part of Osaka, this area is a mix of lively entertainment districts and historic buildings. It is the heart of Minami, Osaka, famous for the Glico sign in Dotonbori and the Kuromon Market, known as a food paradise.

Tennoji

Situated in the southern part of Osaka, this area boasts a harmonious blend of towering skyscrapers like Abeno Harukas and historic landmarks such as Tsutenkaku Tower. It has a long history as a transportation hub and is now a popular tourist spot.

Top 5 Observation Decks in Osaka

Among the many beautiful observation decks in Osaka, here are our top five recommendations:

1. Umeda Sky Building - Floating Garden Observatory

Located in the heart of Umeda, this 173-meter-high observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka. Occasionally, it hosts collaborative events with popular anime franchises, drawing in a broad spectrum of visitors. The building also houses an art museum, which you can enjoy along with the observation deck.

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[Opening Hours]

• 9:30 am - 10:30 pm (Last admission at 10:00 pm)

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[Tickets]

• Adults: 1,500 JPY, Children: 700 JPY
• Tickets can be purchased in advance from the official website or through various booking sites such as Rakuten Travel Experiences. Same-day tickets are available at the entrance of the observation deck.

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Official Website (Klook):https://www.klook.com/en-US/activity

Rakuten Travel Experiences: https://experiences.travel.rakuten.com/experiences/22326

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[Address]

• 531-6039 Osaka, Osaka City, Kita Ward, Oyodonaka 1-1-88 Umeda Sky Bldg 

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[Access]

• 7 minutes on foot from Osaka Station on the JR line.
• 9 minutes on foot from Osaka-Umeda Station on the Hankyu line and Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro line.

[Website]

• https://www.skybldg.co.jp/en/

2. Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku is a 103-meter-high observation tower built in 1912. It is a beloved symbol of the Shinsekai area. From the observation deck, you can take in a panoramic view of Osaka's cityscape, and on clear days, you can see as far as Mt. Ikoma and the Rokko mountain range. The area around the tower is lined with kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables) stalls and shops offering famous Osaka dishes, allowing you to experience the downtown atmosphere of Osaka.

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[Opening Hours]

• 9:00 am - 8:00 pm (Last admission at 7:30 pm)

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[Tickets]

• Adults: 1,000 JPY, Children: 500 JPY
• Tickets can be purchased in advance through various booking sites such as Klook and Rakuten Travel Experiences. Same-day tickets are available at the entrance.

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Klook: https://www.klook.com/activity/76766-osaka-tsutenkaku-admission-ticket/

Rakuten Travel Experiences: https://experiences.travel.rakuten.com/experiences/35481

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[Address]

• 556-0002 Osaka, Osaka City, Naniwa Ward, Ebisuhigashi 1-18-6 

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[Access]

• 3 minutes on foot from Ebisucho Station on the Sakaisuji Line/Hankai Line. 
• 6 minutes on foot from Dobutsuen-mae Station on the Midosuji Line.

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[Website]

• https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/

3. Abeno Harukas - Harukas 300 Observatory

Located in Japan's tallest building, the Harukas 300 observation deck at a height of 300 meters offers a panoramic view of Osaka. Not only can you overlook Osaka's cityscape, but on clear days, you can also see as far as Awaji Island. It's a spot where you can leisurely enjoy the changing faces of Osaka's scenery from day to night. After taking in the stunning view, you can enjoy shopping and dining at the popular Abeno Harukas commercial complex.

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[Opening Hours]

• 9:00 am - 10:00 pm (Last admission at 9:30 pm)

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[Tickets]

• Adults: 2,000 JPY, Junior High and High School Students: 1,200 JPY, Children: 700 JPY
• Tickets can be purchased in advance on the official website or through various booking sites such as Klook and Rakuten Travel Experiences. Same-day tickets are available at the ticket counter on the 16th floor.

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Official Website (tickets): https://www.klook.com/ja/activity/2424-harukas-300-observatory-ticket-osaka/ 

Klook: https://www.klook.com/ja/activity/2424-harukas-300-observatory-ticket-osaka/ 

Rakuten Travel Experiences: https://experiences.travel.rakuten.com/experiences/22110 

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[Address]

• 545-6016 Osaka, Osaka City, Abeno Ward, Abenosuji 1-1-43 

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[Access]

• Directly connected to Tennoji Station on the JR and Osaka Metro line and Osaka Abenobashi Station on the Kintetsu line.
• Tennoji Station is located 6 minutes by train from Namba Station on the Midosuji Line.

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[Website]

• https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/en/observatory/

4. Sakishima Cosmo Tower Observatory

The Sakishima Cosmo Tower Observatory is a stunning 252-meter-high spot overlooking Osaka Bay. By day, bask in a sweeping panorama of the azure waters of Osaka Bay and the majestic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. As night falls, behold the enchanting nocturnal skyline of Osaka. The observatory offers different sights during the day and night, captivating visitors with its ever-changing allure.

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[Opening Hours]

• 11:00 am - 10:00 pm (Last admission at 9:30 pm)
• Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday falls on a holiday).

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[Tickets]

• Adults: 1,000 JPY, Children: 600 JPY
• Tickets can be purchased in advance through various booking sites such as Rakuten Travel Experiences. Same-day tickets are available at the entrance of the observation deck.

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Rakuten Travel Experiences: https://experiences.travel.rakuten.com/experiences/26130 

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[Address]

• 559-00341 Osaka, Osaka City, Suminoe Ward, Nanko-Kita 1-14-16 52F

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[Access]

• 3 minutes on foot from Trade Center-mae Station on the Nanko Port Town Line. 
• Trade Center-mae Station is located approximately 30 minutes by train from Osaka Station.

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[Website]

• https://sakishima-observatory.com/
• https://sakishima-observatory.com/wp/wp-content/themes/sakishimaobs/img/common/pdf/leaf.pdf (EN)

5. HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel

On the rooftop of the HEP FIVE shopping complex in Umeda, you can ride a 106-meter-high ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the cityscape below. HEP FIVE is a well-known shopping destination near Umeda Station, offering fashion and dining options. After exploring shopping and dining, consider taking a ride on the ferris wheel to admire the Umeda scenery. During the day, you'll see the lively city of Osaka, while after dark, you can enjoy the sparkling night view.

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[Opening Hours]

• 11:00 am - 11:00 pm (Last admission at 10:45 pm)

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[Tickets]

• Adults and Children: 600 JPY
• Tickets can be purchased in advance through various booking sites such as Klook and Rakuten Travel Experiences. Same-day tickets are available at the ticket counter on the 7th floor.

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Klook: https://www.klook.com/activity/15996-hep-five-ferris-wheel-osaka/ 

Rakuten Travel Experiences: https://experiences.travel.rakuten.com/experiences/33664 

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[Address]

• 530-0017 Osaka, Osaka City, Kita Ward, Kakuda-cho, 5-15 HEP FIVE 7F

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[Access]

• 5 minutes on foot from Osaka Station on the JR line and Umeda Station on the Hankyu line. 
• Umeda Station is located 15 minutes by train from Namba Station on the Midosuji Line.

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[Website]

• https://www.hepfive.jp/ferriswheel/

Ready to Fall In Love with Osaka?

It’s hard not to fall in love with the city after seeing its enchanting views. Each observation deck provides stunning vistas of Osaka's skyline and nighttime charm, making them a must-visit whether it's day or night. Accessing the observation decks is convenient, as they are within walking distance from major stations or easily reachable by public transportation.