Tsutenkaku(Tower Reaching Heaven)

Hello, I will summarize a 3-night, 4-day trip itinerary to Osaka. 1️⃣ Dotonbori Glico Sign This is a famous photo spot located in Dotonbori, Osaka. 2️⃣ Hip Ferris Wheel 'HEP Five Ferris Wheel' Located on the 7th floor of the Umeda HEP Five shopping mall, this red Ferris wheel is a great spot for photos during the day and offers a stunning night view of Osaka at night. 3️⃣ Tsutenkaku Observation Deck The Tsutenkaku Observation Deck is divided into an indoor and an outdoor observation deck, standing at 87.5m and 94.5m respectively, offering a panoramic view of Osaka. 4️⃣ Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto Kyoto is famous for its traditional buildings, shrines, and cherry blossom paths, attracting visitors from all over the world for cherry blossom viewing. 5️⃣ Ginkaku-ji in Kyoto Ginkaku-ji is a place where you can enjoy the serene natural scenery of Japan, making it well worth a visit.

🗼【Osaka・Tsutenkaku】A Journey to Experience the "Spirit of Naniwa" at the Symbol of Naniwa Standing tall in the Shinsekai area of Osaka, "Tsutenkaku" is an observation tower cherished by people as a symbol of Naniwa since the first tower was completed in 1912. The current tower was rebuilt in 1956 and stands 108 meters tall. It is a famous spot where you can enjoy a retro atmosphere and the charm of Osaka’s downtown. ⸻ 🌟Highlights & Features ・Golden Billiken: Famous as a god who brings good luck. It is said that if you rub the soles of his feet, your wishes will come true✨ ・Observation Deck: The view from 94.5 meters above ground is breathtaking! On clear days, you can see all the way to Osaka Bay. ・Light Show: The fantastic night view created by the "LED light-up" is also recommended (lit every night). ・Downtown Shopping Street: Around Tsutenkaku, you’ll find kushikatsu, shogi, Showa retro goods, and plenty of “Naniwa culture.” ⸻ 🚉Access ・About a 3-minute walk from Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line "Ebisucho Station" ・About a 7-minute walk from JR "Shin-Imamiya Station" ・About a 10-minute walk from Nankai "Shin-Imamiya Station" East Exit ⸻ 🕒Hours & Admission ・Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (last admission at 7:30 PM) ・Admission: Adults 900 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students 400 yen ※Night discount available (varies by season) ⸻ 🗓Recommended Season & Time ・Autumn to winter at dusk: The air is clear, making the Osaka night view even more beautiful. ・Weekday mornings: Relatively fewer people, allowing you to enjoy the observation floor at your own pace. ⸻ 🧭Travel Tips ・Just beside Tsutenkaku is Janjan Yokocho, where you can enjoy local kushikatsu stalls and Showa-era atmosphere. ・Shopping for retro goods and local ingredients is also recommended at Shinsekai Market. ・Perfect for combined sightseeing with nearby "Spa World" and "Tennoji Zoo." ⸻ “Wow, wow, what a great view!” The city of Osaka seen from Tsutenkaku is filled with nostalgia and energy. Why not touch the "Spirit of Naniwa" while making a wish on the Billiken at your feet? ⸻ #DowntownCharm

Worried about the cold when traveling with kids? This warm winter experience near a Kansai landmark will have your little ones playing so much they won’t want to go home! Who says winter means staying indoors? With this guide in hand, warmth is guaranteed! 📍 Core Location Osaka · Tsutenkaku Area ❄️ Winter Exclusive Highlights Romantic Lights: The area under Tsutenkaku Tower transforms into a sea of lights every night, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a comic world—perfect for photos! Comfort Food: The old shops in Shinsekai Shopping Street downstairs serve kushikatsu (fried skewers) and steaming hot oden, instantly warming you up. Indoor Fun: Nearby “Tsutenkaku Slide” and “Observation Deck Game Zone” are fully indoors, perfect for kids to burn off energy. 👨‍👩‍👧 Three-Day Essential Itinerary • Day 1 Cultural Introduction Arrive in the morning and check into your hotel. In the afternoon, stroll through Shinsekai, check out Janjan Yokocho, and taste the original fried skewers. In the evening, climb Tsutenkaku Tower to watch the sunset and city lights. • Day 2 In-Depth Exploration Visit Tennoji Zoo in the morning (the indoor area is very warm). In the afternoon, explore the Abeno Harukas 300 Observation Deck (floor-to-ceiling windows, warm and cozy). At night, enjoy Spa World’s hot springs (with a children’s water play area). • Day 3 Nostalgia and Shopping Visit Osaka Municipal Museum of Art or Keitakuen Garden (Japanese-style garden) in the morning. In the afternoon, shop for cosmetics and children’s clothes in the Shinsaibashi area. 🏨 Warm Stay Recommendations (Top Accommodations) The Royal Park Canvas Osaka Kitahama – Stylish design, some rooms have direct views of Tsutenkaku Tower, attentive service. Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel – Located inside Abeno Harukas, the tallest hotel in Kansai, unbeatable views, direct subway access to Tsutenkaku. Guest House U-En – A top-notch guesthouse hidden in a residential area, renovated traditional machiya with a garden, offering an authentic Japanese living experience. 🍲 Must-Try Food List Original Kushikatsu Daruma: A Shinsekai specialty, crispy outside and tender inside. Dote-ni: Slow-cooked beef tendon oden, a winter favorite. Pablo Cheese Tart (Tsutenkaku Store): Warm, molten cheese tart, sweet and comforting. 💡 Insider Tips • It’s recommended to buy Tsutenkaku observation deck tickets in advance on Trip.com to avoid queues. • Osaka is windy in winter, so scarves and hats are a must, but indoor heating is strong—layering like an onion is the smartest way to dress. • Many old shops in Shinsekai only accept cash, so bring enough yen. • For families, consider purchasing the Osaka Amazing Pass, which covers transportation and admission to over 30 attractions including Tsutenkaku, offering great value. This winter, no need to travel far to Hokkaido—experience the warmth and joy of Osaka’s vibrant atmosphere. The itinerary is ready, all that’s left is for you to set off!

Located in the heart of the Shinsekai area in Osaka's Naniwa Ward, Tsutenkaku Tower is a landmark rebuilt in 1956, standing approximately 103 meters tall. From the observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of Osaka city and the nearby Tennoji Park. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Awaji Island in the distance. Beneath the tower and throughout the Shinsekai area, you'll find retro-style signs and streets filled with food stalls reminiscent of the Showa era. The area is famous for its kushikatsu (fried skewers), takoyaki, and other street foods, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll while enjoying local delicacies and exploring small shops. If you're looking to experience the local vibe at a relaxed pace, consider starting with the city views from Tsutenkaku Tower's observation deck, then wandering through the Shinsekai streets, following the glow of neon signs and savoring the street food. This combination offers a unique travel experience blending sightseeing, daily life, history, and retro charm.

I've been to Osaka many times, so I won’t specifically cover the popular tourist spots like Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori. This time, I planned a more relaxed 2-day trip to slowly soak in the essence of Osaka～ 🖤 Day 1 ☕ Morning｜Streamer Coffee Company (Shinsaibashi) + LiLo Coffee Roasters Start the day with a cup of coffee; these two cafes are nearby. Streamer’s latte art is top-notch, while LiLo’s pour-over lets you savor the purest flavor of the coffee beans. Afterward, you’ll find yourself at the vintage shop street—perfect for a casual stroll and maybe even some great finds. 🍜 Noon｜Mugen Ramen Sennichimae This place was a random pick with a manageable queue. The broth is rich, the chashu slightly charred, and paired with a soft-boiled egg, it’s perfect. Actually, most ramen shops in Osaka are pretty good, so you rarely go wrong walking into any. 🛍 Afternoon｜Orange Street + Harukas 300 Observatory Orange Street is Osaka’s most famous trendy spot, with a wide selection of Japanese brands—great for leisurely browsing. Then head to Abeno Harukas 300 Observatory; from 300 meters up, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of Osaka, especially stunning at night. 🗼 Evening｜Around Tsutenkaku This area is great for photo ops and check-ins, with twinkling lights creating a special atmosphere at night. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of authentic Osaka dishes like sukiyaki, kushikatsu, and udon—definitely worth trying. 🏨 Accommodation｜FRESA INN Namba Station Front Booked this hotel last minute; the rooms are small but well-equipped. Most importantly, it’s super convenient, just steps from the subway station—ideal for a short stay. 🖤 Day 2 🍰 Morning｜Harbs + Namba Yasaka Shrine Harbs opens at 11 AM, so arriving on time means no lines. Their mille-feuille fruit cake is a must-try. Afterward, take a walk to Namba Yasaka Shrine; the giant lion head at the entrance is very distinctive and makes for great photos. For empty shots, come early. 🍤 Noon｜Ichimi Zen Tempura This is a local favorite small shop. The elderly owner has appeared on many TV shows. Their tempura is crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfectly preserving the freshness of the ingredients. 🎨 Afternoon｜Fujita Art Museum + Nakazakicho The Fujita Art Museum has an impressive collection, and the backyard scenery is beautiful. Try their matcha and dango; even the tea bowls are exquisite. Afterward, explore Nakazakicho, a nostalgic neighborhood full of unique shops and cafes—every place you step into offers delightful surprises. 🌆 Evening｜Abeno Harukas Watch the sunset from the observatory; the whole city is bathed in the red glow of dusk—super romantic! Dinner is right inside the building’s restaurant, where you can enjoy Osaka’s dazzling night view while dining—a perfect end to this relaxed trip. This itinerary is very casual, no rush, just soaking in Osaka’s vibe as you go～ #OsakaTrip

When I traveled to Japan, one thing that shocked me was that the shops in Japan really close early, and the streets are basically deserted after nine o'clock (especially in ancient cities like Kyoto)🥲 Tokyo and Osaka, the big cities, are relatively better, but the nightlife is not as rich and colorful as I imagined💔 This note tells you where you can go to play in Osaka at night~ 1⃣️Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori, this is one of the busiest night markets in Osaka, with food, shopping, and shops all available🍢 It can be said to be the largest and most complete shopping place! And there are many anime check-in places hehe😁 The super famous Glico Man sign is also in Dotonbori oh🙈 2⃣️Umeda Hep Five, there are Ferris wheels and many izakayas here, as well as some large shopping malls, which are also good places to experience Osaka nightlife🎡 If Dotonbori is more down-to-earth, then the Umeda business district will be relatively high-end, with all major luxury stores gathered~ 3⃣️Universal Studios Osaka, the movie city is more atmospheric at night~ Especially the world of Harry Potter🌍 4️⃣Tsutenkaku, also one of the landmarks of Japan, you can see the colorful Osaka city at night. Coming to Tsutenkaku, it's like stepping into an anime, everything is as beautiful as a comic❤️ Of course~ In addition to the above famous landmarks and attractions, you can also choose a bar, invite three or five friends to chat and drink, and experience your own Osaka nightlife🍷

🚦Day 7 Osaka Half-Day Free Tour 🗼We arrived at Osaka Port at 2 PM Tokyo time and started our half-day free tour of Osaka. We bought a one-day subway ticket and arrived at Ebisucho. Exit 3 is the popular spot for taking photos of Tsutenkaku. The towering steel structure of Tsutenkaku, with the tangled wires in the alleys, gives a post-apocalyptic city vibe. Apart from being cautious of vehicles and pedestrians while taking photos, there are no other suggestions. 📽️We wandered around the Shinsaibashi shopping area and accidentally stumbled upon a vintage street. Besides clothes and shoes, various toys from different eras like Peko-chan, Buddy Lee, and Barbie are well-preserved and sold here! The Glico billboard in Dotonbori is also an indispensable part of Osaka's night scene, with the crowd comparable to any popular commercial street in a first-tier city in China. 🚦Day 9 Osaka Parallel World of Dimensions 🎠The second dimension has always been an essential part of Japanese cultural labels, so I chose to spend most of the day experiencing the impact and feelings it brings. The area centered around Jungle Nipponbashi and Animate Nipponbashi stores is a great place to visit. You can find unexpected original merchandise like manga, posters, figurines, DVDs, and more. Due to the mature industry chain and sustainable demand, second-hand and used figurines also continue to circulate here. 🎡The super-complete second-dimension industry also brings new experiences to the catering and entertainment industry. In 2020, a dessert shop derived from the popular serial 'Kaiju No. 8' on 'Shonen Jump+' opened on the upper floor of Shinsaibashi PARCO. The shop prohibits filming, and each meal comes with a limited character coaster. The food developed according to each character's setting is also very distinctive. 🚦Day 9 Kochi A Day in a Small Town ⚓️On the ninth day, we arrived at Kochi, located at the southernmost part of Shikoku Island. Surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, bonito is one of the specialties here. Restaurants on the streets prominently feature various bonito dishes. Although the city is not large, it is fully functional, and a leisurely 'day in a small town' begins... 🫛As we all know, Japan's land area is small, and agriculture here is greatly restricted by the environment. However, in Kochi, seasonal fruits and vegetables can be harvested all year round. Therefore, in small shops on the street, you can see many agricultural and sideline products labeled 'Produced in Kochi Prefecture' with simple and plain packaging, which may also be related to the straightforward and honest personality of Kochi people. It is said that Kochi people are famous for their drinking capacity throughout Japan. Many locals will be noisy in small bars in the city center until late at night. Due to limited time on this trip, if there is another opportunity, I must experience Kochi's nightlife. 🫑Starting from the main gate of Kochi Castle, Otemon, it takes about ten minutes on foot to reach Obiyamachi. This is a fully enclosed arcade shopping street about 650 meters long from east to west. Commercial facilities such as Obiyamachi 2-chome Shopping Street, Ohashi-dori Shopping Street, Harimayabashi Shopping Street, Shinkyo-bashi Shopping Street, and Obiyamachi Centro are all available. Unlike any other Japanese commercial street we visited before, Kochi Prefecture is not large, so the living and shopping needs of local residents must be met here. Shops specializing in school uniforms, custom kimonos, bookstores selling study materials, etc., are mixed in. It is also very interesting to walk in and browse without disturbing other customers. 🧈In the previous days of the trip, I didn't get to eat the cream cake that Japanese anime girls love. At the corner of a small alley, I pushed the door into a seemingly inconspicuous but surprisingly delightful 'local coffee shop' called 'Gendai Kigyosha.' The old-school Japanese-style decoration is very eye-catching. There are no people hurriedly taking photos in the shop. More are Japanese aunts quietly chatting, Japanese uncles focused on Sudoku, and Japanese youths who can read a book all afternoon with just a cup of coffee... Time passes very slowly here, and it was at this moment that I realized the Japanese ability to heal themselves by being alone. 🚦Day 10 Hososhima Miyazaki's Summer 🌊Uma no Se is located at the tip of Cape Hyuga. It is said to be named because the columnar rocks along the coast resemble a horse's back. There is an observation deck on the inside of the cape where you can view the steep cliffs formed by the 70-meter-high and 100-meter-deep columnar rocks. 🌫️Adjacent to Uma no Se is the Sea of Cruz, where huge reefs form a cross-shaped sea area. From the air, the arrangement of these reefs sometimes looks like the letter 'leaf.' Therefore, it is said that the tradition of praying to this place began, and it is also a popular dating spot for couples. 💨Hyuga Aeon Mall is a large shopping center located in Hyuga City. Three buildings surround a huge parking lot, offering a wide range of products from daily necessities, fresh food to fashion accessories. Here, we felt the shopping atmosphere closest to Japanese life, and we also ended all our onshore trips here.

Another must-visit attraction in Osaka is Tsutenkaku. Tsutenkaku means "a tall building reaching directly to the sky," with a height of 100 meters, and 103 meters including the lightning rod. It features an observation deck, a special observation deck, and a snack and souvenir 🛍️ area. If you enjoy thrills, you can try the 60-meter-long slide 🛝 at Tsutenkaku, which is included in the Kansai Thru Pass. Or experience the skywalk. Near Tsutenkaku is Shinsekai Hondori Shopping Street, a great spot for taking photos 📷 of Tsutenkaku! The shopping street has a strong Showa-era atmosphere, with many restaurants 🍴 and specialty shops where you can try Osaka’s famous dish—fried skewers. Like Dotonbori, it has many beautifully designed and large signboards. ——— Shopping Street</ctag> Shopping</ctag> Travel</ctag> Independent Travel</ctag>

I can't even remember how many times I've been to Osaka. The night in Dotonbori is boiling with life. The lanterns along the riverbank bathe the giant claws of Kani Doraku in a golden red, their reflections breaking into countless shimmering lights on the dark water. The savory aroma of takoyaki mixed with the sweetness of grilled eel wafts from the crowded food stalls, sticking to the humid air. Suddenly, a firework shoots up with a "whoosh," scattering golden rain beside the tip of Tsutenkaku Tower—at that moment, everyone along the river looks up, silent, with only the sizzling sound of oil on the iron griddle. Walking south along the street where the electric buzz gradually fades, the noise of people filters away. Turning into the alleys of Nipponbashi, the neon lights thin into sparse lines of kanji characters. Amid the old electric wire smell drifting from Akihabara, a ginkgo tree suddenly glows beside a convenience store—it’s the store’s string lights, turning each leaf into translucent gold foil, rustling with a silver sound in the evening breeze. The quiet here is the breathing of sleeping electronic components, separated from the bustling Dotonbori by two layers of the human world. It turns out that Osaka’s night has two faces: one burns hot with the lively spirit of Dotonbori’s fireworks, the other quietly shines in the silent backstreets, where fire trees and silver flowers glow softly.

🌈Attraction Highlights: Shinsaibashi: One of the busiest commercial districts in Osaka Dotonbori: Glico sign, various snacks Hozenji Yokocho: Full of Japanese style, old eel rice shop Namba Yasaka Shrine: Popular lion head stage Tsutenkaku: Detective Conan filming location, overlooking the whole of Osaka. 🕐️Recommended Activities: ♥1. Shopping: Shinsaibashi is one of the largest shopping districts in Osaka, with many high-end and trendy brand stores. You can buy all kinds of clothes, shoes, cosmetics, handbags, and other goods here. ♥2. Food: There are many restaurants near Shinsaibashi, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. You can try local specialties such as okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and ramen. ♥3. Street Performers: You can often see street performers on the pedestrian street in Shinsaibashi, such as magic, acrobatics, and music. These performances are very interesting and can give you a different experience. ♥4. Night View: At night, the lights in Shinsaibashi are very beautiful. You can take a walk by the river and enjoy the night view. You can also take a water bus to tour the canal and feel the romantic atmosphere. 🏨Accommodation: We recommend Akatsuki House. They have different types of rooms. You can book an apartment at Kishinosato Station. The smart lock is very convenient. The room is very spacious and has a kitchen and washing machine. It is very cost-effective. 💗Other Tips: ☀When shopping, pay attention to price tags and return policies. When tasting food, pay attention to hygiene and the freshness of ingredients. When watching street performers, pay attention to taking photos and safety.

Lately, this street in Osaka has become quite famous! Shinsekai Hondori Street, where you can see Tsutenkaku, feels like stepping into an anime scene :) The various signs come together to create an amazing street. 📍Shinsekai Hondori Shopping Street 新世界本通商店街 The Dotonbori Glico Sign is a signature spot in Osaka. As such, it attracts a lot of people. If you go down under the Ebisu Bridge, you can take photos in a less crowded area. 📍Dotonbori Glico Sign 道頓堀グリコサイン / 1 Chome-10-3 Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071 Japan

#OsakaItinerary Ebisucho, a charming area in Osaka, blends tradition and modernity, boasting unique culture and cuisine. It’s a day trip destination worth exploring in depth. Here’s my carefully planned itinerary to help you experience the local charm of Ebisucho. 09:00 - Depart from Ebisucho Station 🚇 In the morning, I took the subway from downtown Osaka to Ebisucho Station. The convenient transportation and about 15 minutes of travel filled me with anticipation. Stepping out of the station, the morning sunlight bathed the streets, and the surrounding shops and cafes emitted enticing aromas. 09:30 - Explore Shinsekai 🌍 First, I headed to Shinsekai. This is one of Osaka’s historical landmarks, full of nostalgic atmosphere. Walking along the streets of Shinsekai, I saw many traditional snack stalls and shops, such as the famous Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). I ordered a skewer of fried pork at a small shop; crispy on the outside and tender inside, paired with a special sauce that kept me coming back for more. 11:00 - Visit Tsutenkaku Tower 🗼 Not far away, Tsutenkaku Tower is the symbol of Shinsekai. Built in 1912, it deepened my understanding of Osaka’s history. Taking the elevator to the observation deck, I overlooked the entire city of Osaka, and the distant scenery was refreshing. The exhibitions here also introduced the history and culture of Tsutenkaku, allowing visitors to feel the unique charm of this city. 12:30 - Lunch Time: Taste Osaka’s Cuisine 🍜 For lunch, I chose a local restaurant specializing in Osaka’s famous dish—takoyaki. Each takoyaki ball was crispy outside and tender inside, drizzled with delicious sauce and sprinkled with seaweed powder, leaving a lingering taste. Chatting with local friends, I learned about the history and stories of Ebisucho, making the meal even richer. 14:00 - Art Exploration in Ebisucho 🎨 After lunch, I visited the art district of Ebisucho, where many galleries and handmade craft shops are located. I casually entered a few shops to admire works by local artists, feeling the collision of creativity and inspiration. I especially liked a small gallery showcasing contemporary works by local artists, which gave me a sense of Osaka’s artistic atmosphere. 15:30 - Shopping and Souvenirs 🛍️ Next, I strolled through the shopping street in Ebisucho, home to many independent designer shops selling handicrafts and fashion items. I picked out some unique souvenirs as wonderful memories of this trip. 17:00 - Enjoy Coffee Time ☕️ After a day of exploration, I stopped at a local café to enjoy a cup of rich coffee. The cozy atmosphere was perfect for quietly reflecting on today’s journey and savoring the food and art I had just experienced. 18:00 - End of the Day Trip 🌅 As the sun set, I took the subway back to the city center, concluding this fulfilling day trip to Ebisucho. The day’s experience not only let me taste delicious food but also deeply understand the culture and history of Ebisucho. It’s truly a place worth revisiting. The charm of Ebisucho lies in its diversity—whether it’s food, culture, or art, it leaves visitors reluctant to leave. If you plan to visit Osaka, Ebisucho is definitely not to be missed! #OsakaTravel #Ebisucho #FoodExploration #CulturalJourney #ArtJourney