Last updated on September 24th, 2024
Access the Umeda Sky Building and Kuchu-Teien Observatory for an amazing experience. Check out our comprehensive travel guide to this unique architectural marvel.
The Umeda Sky Building, also known as the Kuchu-Teien Observatory, is a famous landmark in Osaka. This impressive building is recognized as one of the top 20 architectural marvels in the world and has won various prestigious awards. It was initially constructed with two towers, and later a center floating observatory that connected between the two towers, resulting in a unique and striking design. The building features glass escalators leading to the observation deck.
I had the opportunity to visit the Umeda Sky Building twice during my last few visits to Osaka. I would love to share our experience of visiting this iconic landmark in my detailed travel guide blog.
Introduction: Osaka Umeda Sky Building
The Umeda Sky Building (梅田スカイビル) is situated in the outskirts of the Umeda business district in Kita-ku, Osaka. It stands at an impressive height of 173 meters with 40 stories. This remarkable building consists of twin towers connected by the Kuchu Teien Observatory located on the 39th, 40th, and rooftop floors.
The Kuchu Teien Observatory features a unique circular ring structure and offers excellent views of the city through its windows and from its open-air deck.
Visitors can reach the top using elevators, escalators, and stairs, all of which are quick and easy to navigate. This structure is amazing, providing a 360-degree view of Osaka.
Osaka Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory
Address: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan
Opening Hours: daily from 9:30 to 22:30 (Last Admission at 22:00)
Admission Fee: ¥2,000 (Get your Umeda Sky Building Ticket from Klook)
Pro Tips: The admission to Umeda Sky Building is free with Osaka Amazing Pass / Osaka e-Pass before 15:00.
How To Get To Osaka Umeda Sky Building
Firstly, you will need to get to the Umeda area. The closest stations are JR Osaka Station, Umeda Metro Station, or Osaka Umeda Station via Hankyu/Hanshin train. From there, it takes about a 10 to 15-minute walk from either of these stations to reach the Umeda Sky Building.
We arrived from Umeda Metro station, which is more convenient from our hotel in Shinsaibashi. Walking to the building gives visitors a chance to experience the lively streets of Umeda City, with many restaurants and cafes in the area.
Following the navigation, it took about 15 minutes to walk from the metro station.
Osaka Umeda Sky Building Ticket
There is an admission fee for entry to the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka. Entry tickets cost ¥2,000 for adults. This admission fee is actually cheaper compared to many other observatories in big cities.
You can get a single entry access admission ticket to Umeda Sky Building or use the Osaka Amazing Pass / Osaka e-Pass to access the Umeda Sky Building for free before 15:00!
The best time to visit is at nighttime when the city is all lit up.
The Umeda Sky Building is open to visitors every day from 9:30 to 22:30, with last admission at 22:00. It remains open on weekends and public holidays, although operating hours may vary during special events.
Pro Tips: If you have the Osaka Amazing Pass or Osaka e-Pass, you can enjoy free admission by presenting the pass between 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM. However, free access is not available for the evening or night view. Nevertheless, you are entitled to a 20% discount with the pass.
My Visit to Osaka Umeda Sky Building
We purchased the 2-Days Osaka Amazing Pass, which granted us access to the Osaka Umeda Sky Building for free. When we visited in the morning, we traveled from Umeda Metro station, which was more convenient from our hotel in Shinsaibashi.
After a 15-minute walk, the distinctive Umeda Sky Building became visible as we approached.
We finally reached the Umeda Sky Building area. The entrance was easy to find as it was inside an indoor building with well-signage. The ticket office is located at 39th floor.
We took a quick ride up in the glass lifts to the 35th floor, but there was a long line at that time. The staff were friendly and helped organize the crowd.
From there, we passed through a see-through, tunnel-like escalator from the 35th floor to the 39th floor Kuchu Teien Observatory.
A highlight of our visit is the journey through the tunnel-like escalator. The escalator was a great addition to the building, providing a thrilling ride that prepared us for the amazing views from the top.
Kuchu Teien Observatory Deck
The 39th floor housed the lower enclosed Kuchu Teien Observatory Deck, which includes a restaurant, bar, and shops. On the 40th floor, there is a gallery and a café with floor-to-ceiling windows where you can enjoy the scenery.
The indoor viewing area at Kuchu-Teien Observatory, providing a great experience even in rainy weather. The downtown district of Kita and Umeda, with its modern architecture, offers truly stunning views.
On the top floor of the Kuchu Teien Observatory, located on the rooftop at 173 meters (590 feet) above ground. The observation deck is situated on the highest floor of two connected skyscrapers.
You can either take the stairs or the elevator to reach the upper open-air observatory, which offers a panoramic 360-degree view of Osaka. The circular walkway allows you to enjoy a full 360-degree panorama of the Osaka skyline.
From here, you can marvel at the wonderful 360-degree view, catch a glimpse of Kyoto in the distance, and be amazed by the number of bridges spanning the river below in Osaka.
Besides the breathtaking city view, we are fascinated by the way the two towers are connected with the circular ring structure. It is truly remarkable, unique, and iconic.
The observatory also sells heart-shaped engraved love locks that couples can lock in a designated spot in the upper observatory. If you wish to do this, you have to buy and order the love lock in advance.
Art Gallery
If you have more time, you can also visited an art museum that was included in the Amazing Pass. Admission fee is ¥1,300 for adult.
The exhibition was interesting, and the art gallery is definitely worth a visit. You can take some time wandered around, looking at some fascinating pieces of artwork.
Overall: A Visit to Osaka Umeda Sky Building
All in all, a visit to Osaka Umeda Sky Building with Kuchu-Teien-Observatory is highly recommended. It is truly worth it, especially since it’s included with the Osaka Amazing Pass or Osaka e-Pass. I really liked the design and reaching the top of the building, and the escalator was pretty cool. After exploring the Osaka Umeda Sky Building, we went for okonomiyaki for lunch at the Umeda undercover street.
Lastly, this travel guide to Umeda Sky Building is part of travel blog in Kansai region. Free feel to continue to read on our Kansai trip to other interesting places including Osaka, Kyoto, and Uji.
Osaka Itinerary: Things to do in Osaka: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
- Osaka Amazing Pass itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
- Travel Guide to Osaka Castle (Osakajo)
- Travel Guide for Osaka Bay Cruise Santa Maria
- Shinsekai Tsutenkaku Tower and Slider
- Where to Stay in Osaka: Namba or Umeda
- Osaka Food Guide: Top 8 Unique Food To Eat in Osaka
Kyoto itinerary: 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto
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