The Umeda Sky Building is arguably one of the most recognisable landmarks in Osaka. It consists of two 40-storey towers connected at the top by a large observation deck and rooftop garden.
Completed in 1993, the towers were constructed independently. Once both towers were nearly finished, the “Floating Garden Observatory” was assembled at ground level and then hoisted up to the 40th floor.
The concept of connecting the towers at the top was considered a futuristic approach to modern architecture. This design allows people to move between the two towers via both the top and bottom levels — a feature not typically possible with traditional twin tower structures.
One of the main highlights of the design is the observation area, which features both an indoor deck and an open-air deck. The outdoor deck offers a thrilling experience, especially for those who enjoy the sensation of wind rushing by at 173 metres above the ground.
For visitors untroubled by heights, a glass elevator takes you up to the observation deck and a Chinese restaurant and bar on the 39th floor.
At the base of the building is Takimi Koji, a food-themed attraction that replicates a downtown street scene from the early Showa period. This indoor culinary destination is filled with nostalgic artefacts from the early to mid-1900s and offers a wide variety of restaurants to explore.
The Umeda Sky Building is located just northwest of Osaka Station.
Official website:
https://www.skybldg.co.jp/en/
