The Umeda Sky Building is a unique architectural masterpiece in Umeda not far from Osaka JR Station. This 40-story building is a worthwhile attraction for anyone looking to see the city of Osaka from up high.
So let’s check out the history, design, and top attractions of the Umeda Sky Building and its awesome observation deck.
Umeda Sky building’s Creative Architect
The Umeda Sky Building is a skyscraper located in Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan. It was designed by the Japanese architect Hiroshi Hara and completed in 1993. Hara is known for his innovative and contemporary designs, and the Umeda Sky Building is considered one of his most iconic works.
Hiroshi Hara is a renowned Japanese architect who was born in 1956 in Osaka, Japan and is known for his unique approach to architecture, which combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design elements.
Umeda Sky Building’s Unique Design
The Umeda Sky Building is one of Hara’s most famous works and is considered a masterpiece of contemporary architecture. The building is made up of two towers that are connected by a unique floating garden observatory, known as the “Floating Garden Observatory”.
The observatory offers stunning views of Osaka and is suspended between the two towers, providing visitors with a unique experience.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Umeda Sky Building’s design is the way in which it integrates nature and technology. The floating garden observatory is an excellent example of this, as it features a unique water feature that creates a soothing ambiance and helps to regulate the temperature inside the building. In addition, the building’s facade is made up of a series of reflective panels that create the illusion of the building disappearing into the sky.
Another interesting feature of the Umeda Sky Building is the way in which it incorporates elements of traditional Japanese architecture. For example, the building’s design is based on the concept of “tenjo tengei”, which is the idea of connecting heaven and earth. This is reflected in the building’s overall shape and the way in which it blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
The construction of the Umeda Sky Building was completed in 1993 and it quickly became one of Osaka’s most popular attractions. The building has won numerous awards for its innovative design and is considered a prime example of contemporary Japanese architecture.
Umeda Sky Observation Deck
The Umeda Sky Building’s observation deck, known as the “Floating Garden Observatory”, is located on the top floor of the building and offers visitors stunning views of Osaka and the surrounding areas. The observation deck is unique in that it is suspended between the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building, giving visitors the feeling of being suspended in mid-air.
To reach the observation deck, visitors must first take an escalator to the 35th floor of the building. From there, they take a short elevator ride to the 39th floor, where they are greeted by a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The observatory is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing visitors to take in the view from all angles.
The Features of the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck
The Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck is a circular observatory made of glass and steel that is suspended between the two towers of the Umeda Sky Building. The observatory is known as the “Floating Garden Observatory” and is one of the most popular attractions in Osaka. Here are some of the features that make the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck a must-visit attraction:
- 360-degree views of the city
- Futuristic design and architecture
- Glass elevators with views of the city
- Cafe and restaurant with panoramic views
- Souvenir shop with unique gifts and merchandise
The Floating Garden Observatory
The Floating Garden Observatory is the main attraction of the Umeda Sky Building. The observatory offers breathtaking views of the city and is the perfect place to take photos. You can also enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal at the Sky Restaurant while enjoying the view.
The Glass Elevators
The Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck is accessible by a unique glass elevator that takes visitors up to the 39th floor. The elevators offer stunning views of the city as they ascend to the top. The ride is especially thrilling for those who are afraid of heights as the elevator is made entirely of glass.
The Sky Restaurant
The Sky Restaurant is located on the observation deck and offers delicious Japanese cuisine such as sushi, tempura, and wagyu beef. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails that can be enjoyed while taking in the view.
The Takimi Koji Gourmet Street
The Takimi Koji Gourmet Street is a food court located on the basement floor of the Umeda Sky Building. The food court features a variety of restaurants that offer Japanese cuisines such as ramen, sushi, and takoyaki. The food court is designed to look like a traditional Japanese street and is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat.
The Tenku no Noen Rooftop Garden
The Tenku no Noen Rooftop Garden is a rooftop garden located on the 9th floor of the Umeda Sky Building. The garden is open to the public and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view. The garden features a variety of seasonal flowers and plants and is a popular spot for couples and families.
Tickets to the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck
There are a few ways to get tickets to the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck:
- Purchase tickets at the ticket counter on the 3rd floor of the Umeda Sky Building
- Buy tickets online in advance from the Umeda Sky Building website
- Purchase tickets as part of a tour package
The cost of admission to the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck is 1,500 yen for adults and 700 yen for children aged between 4 and 12 years. Children under 3 years of age can enter for free.
Opening Hours
The Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck is open every day of the year from 9:30 am to 10:30 pm. The last entry to the observation deck is at 10:00 pm.
Directions to the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck
The Umeda Sky Building is located in the heart of Osaka and is easily accessible by public transportation. Here are some of the ways to get there:
- By train: Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Osaka Station and exit at the Central North Exit. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to the Umeda Sky Building.
- By subway: Take the Midosuji Line or the Tanimachi Line to Umeda Station and exit at the East Exit. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to the Umeda Sky Building.
- By bus: Take the Osaka City Bus No. 34 or 55 and get off at the Umeda Sky Building Mae bus stop.
Umeda Sky building vs Haruka Observitory
Recently the Umeda Sky Building has had some competition in the observatory game in the form of the Abeno Harukas Observatory down on the other side of town in Tennoji.
The Umeda Sky Building and the Harukas Observatory are both great choices for seeing the views of Osaka but they offer visitors different experiences.
The Umeda Sky Building as we have seen is a unique skyscraper that features a floating garden observatory suspended between two towers not to mention its famous glass escalator.
The Harukas Observatory, on the other hand, sits at the top of the Abeno Harukas skyscraper, which is the tallest building in Japan. The observatory is located on the 58th, 59th, and 60th floors of the building and offers panoramic views of Osaka.
While both attractions offer incredible views of Osaka, the Umeda Sky Building’s observatory is suspended between two towers, providing a unique and memorable experience. The Harukas Observatory, on the other hand, is located in the tallest building in Japan and offers a more traditional observatory experience, similar to Roppongi’s Roppongi Hills Tokyo City View Observation Deck in many respects with multiple floors and panoramic views through huge windows.
Ultimately, which one to visit you’ll surely be impressed and both attractions are highly recommended for anyone visiting Osaka and looking to enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
Final Thoughts
Like Osaka castle, the Umeda Sky Building is an icon of the city yet it is often overlooked by visitors. The building offers a great package and can make the perfect way to start I night off on the town.
The breathtaking views of the city and the unique glass elevators make it an unforgettable experience. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck is sure to leave you with lasting memories and some great photos of your trip to Osaka.
