Abeno Harukas | Osaka

Abeno Harukas (あべのハルカス) is a skyscraper and multi-use complex located in the Abeno district of Osaka, Japan. It is the tallest building in Osaka and one of the tallest in Japan. The tower is a modern icon of the city, offering impressive views, luxury shopping, dining, and accommodation. It is a prominent feature of the Osaka skyline and a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

1. Overview of Abeno Harukas

Height: Abeno Harukas stands at 300 meters (980 feet), making it the tallest building in Osaka and the 14th tallest building in Japan. The tower has 60 floors above ground and 5 basement levels.

Completion: The skyscraper was completed in 2014, after several years of construction, and has since become one of Osaka’s most recognizable landmarks.

Location: Abeno Harukas is located in the Abeno district, which is situated in the southern part of Osaka. It is conveniently accessible from Tennoji Station, one of Osaka's major transportation hubs.

2. Features and Attractions of Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas is a multi-use complex, with each floor dedicated to a specific function, including retail, office spaces, hotels, and observation decks. Here are some of the key features:

a. Retail and Shopping

Harukas 300: The lower floors of Abeno Harukas are home to the Harukas 300 shopping mall, which houses a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to electronics and cosmetics. The mall is known for its wide range of stores catering to both Japanese and international brands.

Kintetsu Department Store: The skyscraper is part of the Kintetsu Department Store chain, which occupies several floors in the building. This upscale department store offers luxury brands, local goods, and gourmet food options, making it a popular shopping destination for visitors and locals alike.

b. Offices and Business Spaces

• Office Floors: Abeno Harukas also houses several floors of office spaces, providing a hub for many corporations and businesses. The office area is spread over floors 16-30, offering premium office space with stunning views of the city.

c. Hotels

• Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower: The building includes the Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower, a luxury hotel occupying floors 39 to 54. The hotel offers high-end accommodations, including spacious rooms and a variety of dining options. Guests can enjoy beautiful views of Osaka, the Osaka Bay, and even the Seto Inland Sea on clear days.

d. Observation Deck - Harukas 300

Harukas 300 is the observation deck located on the top three floors (floors 58-60) of Abeno Harukas, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond. The observation deck is one of Osaka’s top attractions, providing a 360-degree view of the entire city, including famous landmarks such as Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, and even Kyoto's mountains on clear days.

Sky Garden: The Sky Garden is an outdoor observation area on the 58th floor, where visitors can walk around and enjoy the open-air views. The area is especially popular at sunset and during the evening when the city lights up, creating a beautiful and memorable sight.

Interactive Displays: The observation deck also features interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the surrounding cityscape, providing a unique and informative experience.

e. Dining Options

Abeno Harukas has several restaurants located on the higher floors of the building, offering a range of cuisine, from traditional Japanese dishes to international options. Some of these restaurants feature large windows, allowing diners to enjoy the breathtaking views of the city while they eat.

The Sky Restaurant on the 58th floor offers a fine dining experience with a view, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals looking for a special meal in a beautiful setting.

3. Abeno Harukas as a Landmark and Symbol

Modern Osaka: Abeno Harukas is one of the key symbols of modern Osaka, standing as a testament to the city’s growth and innovation. It represents the city’s commitment to becoming a major economic and cultural hub in Asia.

Cultural Events: The skyscraper also serves as a venue for various cultural events and exhibitions. Art galleries and temporary exhibitions are frequently held in the lower floors, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Nighttime Illumination: Abeno Harukas is often illuminated at night, making it one of Osaka’s most visible landmarks after dark. The lighting changes depending on the season or special events, creating a beautiful spectacle for those looking up at the tower from the streets below.

4. Access and Visitor Information

Location: Abeno Harukas is located in the Abeno district, south of the city center. It is situated just next to Tennoji Station, which is a major transport hub in Osaka. Visitors can easily access the tower from various parts of the city via Osaka Metro, JR, or private rail lines.

Access:

• By Train: The building is directly connected to Tennoji Station, which is served by multiple train lines, including the JR Osaka Loop Line, Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, and the Kintetsu Line.
• By Bus: Several buses also serve the area, making it easy to access the building from different parts of Osaka.

Observation Deck Hours: The Harukas 300 observation deck is typically open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (last entry at 9:30 PM). It’s recommended to check the official website for any changes in hours or special events.

Admission Fees:

• Admission to Harukas 300 (observation deck): The entry fee is usually 1,500 yen for adults, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups.
• Admission to other attractions in Abeno Harukas, such as the shopping mall and restaurants, varies depending on the location.

5. Best Time to Visit Abeno Harukas

Daytime Views: For clear views of Osaka and beyond, visiting during the day is ideal, especially for panoramic views of the city, Osaka Bay, and the surrounding areas.

Sunset and Night Views: If you’re interested in seeing the city come alive with lights, visiting at sunset or in the evening offers a beautiful view of the city’s skyline, illuminated streets, and landmarks. The view from the observation deck at night is a must-see experience for those in the area.

6. Conclusion

Abeno Harukas is not only a modern skyscraper but also a multi-functional complex that offers visitors a diverse experience with its observation deck, shopping, dining, hotel accommodations, and cultural events. Whether you're looking for breathtaking city views, shopping, fine dining, or a place to stay, Abeno Harukas provides something for everyone. It stands as a symbol of Osaka’s progress and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.