Tsutenkaku Tower is a well-known landmark located in the Shinsekai district of Osaka, Japan. The tower was originally built in 1912 and has since undergone several renovations and restorations. The current tower stands at 103 meters tall and is made of steel.
It’s known for its distinctive design, which features a large observation deck at the top of the tower and a giant steel ball at the top, known as the “Tun-Tun Ball”. The observation deck offers visitors panoramic views of Osaka, and the tower is also home to several restaurants, souvenir shops, and other attractions.
The tower has a long and interesting history, and it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout the years. During World War II, the tower was dismantled and used for scrap metal, but it was later rebuilt in the 1950s. In the 1970s, the tower was again demolished and replaced with a new steel structure that still stands today.
Today, Tsutenkaku Tower is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Osaka’s unique and vibrant culture. It is located in the Shinsekai district, which is known for its lively atmosphere and colorful neon signs, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Osaka.
How to Visit
To visit Tsutenkaku Tower, the easiest way is to take the subway to Dobutsuen-mae Station, which is served by both the Midosuji and Sakaisuji subway lines. From the station, it is just a short walk to the tower.
Alternatively, you can take the JR Loop Line to Shin-Imamiya Station, which is also within walking distance of the tower.
Observation Deck
The observation deck at Tsutenkaku Tower is located at the top of the tower and offers stunning panoramic views of Osaka and the surrounding areas. Visitors can take an elevator to reach the observation deck, which is located at a height of 91 meters (299 feet) above the ground.
The observation deck is open-air and offers unobstructed views of the city, making it a great place to take photos and enjoy the scenery. The deck is surrounded by a safety railing and is spacious enough to accommodate large crowds.
In addition to the stunning views, the observation deck also features several telescopes that visitors can use to get a closer look at the city. There are also several information panels that provide information about the history and culture of Osaka.
The observation deck is open from 9:00am to 9:00pm, and the last admission is at 8:30pm. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and the admission fee is very reasonable.
Overall, the observation deck at Tsutenkaku Tower is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Osaka. With its stunning views and unique atmosphere, it is a great way to experience the culture and history of this vibrant city.
Tsutenkaku Tower Slide
There is a slide at Tsutenkaku Tower called “Billiken’s Sky Walk.” It is a 40-meter-long slide that starts from the observation deck and goes down to the fifth floor of the tower. The slide is named after Billiken, a popular character in Japanese folklore who is believed to bring good luck and happiness.
The slide is a fun and unique way to experience the tower and is suitable for both children and adults. To ride the slide, visitors must first purchase a separate ticket in addition to the observation deck admission fee.
Riders are given a special mat to sit on, and they slide down the spiraling slide at a speed of about 25 kilometers per hour. The slide is safe and well-maintained, and riders are required to follow certain rules and safety guidelines.
Overall, the Billiken’s Sky Walk slide is a fun and unique attraction at Tsutenkaku Tower, and it is a great way to add some excitement to your visit.
Tsutenkaku Lunar Tunnel
The Lunar Tunnel is a unique attraction located inside Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka, Japan. It is a short tunnel that is illuminated by colorful lights and features various lunar-themed displays and exhibits.
The tunnel is designed to represent a journey to the moon, and visitors can walk through it and experience the sights and sounds of outer space. Along the way, there are displays of the phases of the moon, lunar landscapes, and even a space capsule.
The Lunar Tunnel is a popular attraction at Tsutenkaku Tower, especially with children, as it offers a fun and interactive way to learn about space and astronomy. The tunnel is also a great place to take photos, as the colorful lights and unique displays make for some great photo opportunities.
The admission fee for the Lunar Tunnel is separate from the observation deck and the Billiken’s Sky Walk slide, but there are combination tickets available that include admission to all three attractions.
Admission Fees
Here are the current prices for the tower:
Observation Deck: 800 yen for adults, 500 yen for children (ages 4-12)
Billiken’s Sky Walk: 600 yen for adults, 400 yen for children (ages 4-12)
Luna Tunnel: 500 yen for adults, 300 yen for children (ages 4-12)
There are also various combination tickets available, which offer discounted admission to multiple attractions at the tower. For example, the “Tower Set” ticket includes admission to the observation deck, the Billiken’s Sky Walk slide, and the Luna Tunnel, and costs 1,500 yen for adults and 900 yen for children.
Opening Hours
Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka is typically open from 9:00am to 9:00pm daily, including holidays. However, the last admission time for the observation deck, Billiken’s Sky Walk, and the Lunar Tunnel is at 8:30pm.
Travel Passes
In addition, there are several passes and discount tickets available that can help you save money on admission to Tsutenkaku Tower and other attractions in Osaka. For example, the Osaka Amazing Pass includes free admission to over 40 attractions in Osaka, including Tsutenkaku Tower, as well as unlimited use of public transportation in the city.
Overall, the admission fees and passes for Tsutenkaku Tower are very reasonable and offer great value for the experience.
Restaurants
Along with the observation deck, Tsutenkaku Tower is also home to several restaurants, souvenir shops, and other attractions, making it a great place to spend a few hours exploring.
Directions From Dontonbori to Tsutenkaku Tower
The easiest way to get from Dotonbori to Tsutenkaku Tower is by taking the subway. Here are the step-by-step directions:
- From Dotonbori, walk to Namba Station (about a 5-10 minute walk).
- Take the Midosuji Subway Line (Red Line) towards Nakamozu and get off at Dobutsuen-mae Station. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Exit the station from Exit 5 and walk straight for about 5-10 minutes until you reach Tsutenkaku Tower. You will see the tower from a distance, so it should be easy to find.
Alternatively, you can also take the JR Loop Line from JR Namba Station to Shin-Imamiya Station and walk to Tsutenkaku Tower from there. However, this route requires a bit more walking (about 15-20 minutes) and can be a bit confusing for first-time visitors.
Overall, taking the subway from Dotonbori to Tsutenkaku Tower is the easiest and most convenient way to get there, and it should take around 20-30 minutes depending on your walking speed.
What Other Observation Decks Are There in Osaka?
There are a few other observation decks in Osaka that also offer stunning views of the city. Here are a few options:
Harukas 300: Located in the Abeno Harukas skyscraper, this new deck offers panoramic views of Osaka and the surrounding areas and has become one of the most popular destinations in Osaka.
Kuchu Teien Observatory: Located on the 40th floor of the Umeda Sky Building, the Kuchu Teien Observatory offers stunning views of Osaka from a unique vantage point. The observatory is suspended between the two towers of the building and features a “Floating Garden” concept.
Hep Five Ferris Wheel: Although not a deck, the Hep Five Ferris Wheel is a popular attraction located in the Umeda district. The ferris wheel stands at a height of 106 meters with cabins that are enclosed and air-conditioned, making it a comfortable experience even in the summer heat.
Osaka City Central Public Hall: The Osaka City Central Public Hall is a historic building located in the Nakanoshima district of Osaka. The building’s observation deck is located on the top floor and offers views of the city and the nearby river. The observation deck is open to the public for free, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Osaka Castle: And let’s not forget good old Osaka Castle with its more traditional but no less memorable top-floor lookout.
Sum Up
Overall, visiting Tsutenkaku Tower is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Osaka, and it is a great way to experience the unique culture and history of this vibrant city.
