Tsutenkaku Tower | Osaka

Tsutenkaku Tower (通天閣) is one of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks, standing tall in the Shitenno-ji area of the city. Originally built in 1912, it has become a symbol of Osaka's post-Meiji era and represents both the city’s modernity and its rich cultural history. The tower is a key tourist attraction, offering an excellent view of the city and a taste of Osaka's unique charm.

1. History of Tsutenkaku Tower

Original Construction (1912): Tsutenkaku Tower was first constructed in 1912 as a symbol of Osaka’s modernity, inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It stood at a height of 64 meters and was designed by architect Tachu Naito.

Reconstruction (1956): The original tower was destroyed in World War II due to bombing, but it was reconstructed in 1956 to its current height of 103 meters. The new structure was built using modern materials, and the design was updated to include some space-age elements.

Symbolism: The name Tsutenkaku translates to “sky-reaching tower,” reflecting its ambition to reach the sky and symbolize Osaka’s rise as a modern, thriving metropolis. The tower’s design and prominence have made it a beloved cultural symbol for the city.

2. Key Features of Tsutenkaku Tower

a. Observation Decks

One of the biggest draws of Tsutenkaku Tower is its observation decks that offer sweeping views of Osaka and beyond.

Main Observation Deck: Located at 91 meters above ground, this deck offers fantastic views of the city, especially at night when Osaka is illuminated by its neon lights and skyscrapers. You can see Osaka Castle, the Umeda Sky Building, and other prominent landmarks from this vantage point.

Top Observation Deck: At 103 meters, this is the highest point of the tower, and on a clear day, you can see as far as Kobe, Kyoto, and even the Seto Inland Sea. The top deck provides a more open-air experience with unobstructed views of the surrounding areas.

b. Famous Neon Signage

Tsutenkaku is particularly famous for its bright neon lights and colorful signage. The tower lights up in various colors during the night, making it an even more attractive landmark. The tower’s lights are often changed depending on the season, with special lighting effects for holidays or events.

One of the most well-known features is the billboard-style neon signs that adorn the tower, including advertisements and whimsical designs.

c. Billiken Statue

At the observation deck, visitors can see the Billiken statue, which has become a popular feature of the tower. Billiken is a figure from American pop culture that became a symbol of good luck in Japan. The statue is often referred to as the “God of Happiness” and has become a popular object for visitors to rub its feet for good luck.

The Billiken statue has become an integral part of the Tsutenkaku experience, and visitors often take photos with it or rub its feet, hoping for a bit of extra fortune in their lives.

d. Museum on the First Floor

On the ground floor of the tower, there is a small museum dedicated to the history of Tsutenkaku and its significance in Osaka's culture. You can learn about the original construction of the tower, the challenges it faced during World War II, and how it has evolved over time.

The museum also provides historical exhibits related to the Shitenno-ji area, including Osaka's early history and development.

e. Restaurants and Shops

In the area surrounding Tsutenkaku, you will find many restaurants offering Osaka's famous street foods like takoyaki (octopus-filled dough balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). There are also small shops selling souvenirs, traditional crafts, and quirky goods.

Inside the tower itself, there are also cafes and snack stalls, where visitors can relax while enjoying a treat or drink.

3. Tsutenkaku's Location: Shinsekai

Shinsekai (新世界) is the vibrant district surrounding Tsutenkaku Tower. It was developed in the early 20th century and designed as a representation of modernity, combining influences of both Western and Japanese culture.

Shinsekai is a fascinating place to visit, with retro architecture, local eateries, and a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors to a different time. It’s also famous for its nostalgic, old-school feel, with its colorful street signs, small shops, and kushikatsu restaurants.

Visitors can enjoy wandering through Shinsekai and exploring attractions like the Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine and Jan-Jan Yokocho, a lively alley known for its many food stalls and bars.

4. How to Get to Tsutenkaku Tower

Tsutenkaku Tower is easily accessible via public transportation:

By Subway: Take the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line to Ebisucho Station, or the Midosuji Line to Namba Station. From there, it's just a short walk to the tower.

By Train: You can also take the JR Line to Shin-Imamiya Station and walk to Tsutenkaku from there.

By Bus: There are various buses that stop near the tower, but the subway is typically the most convenient option.

5. Best Time to Visit Tsutenkaku Tower

Evening/Night: Tsutenkaku is particularly beautiful at night when the tower lights up with its neon glow. The night view from the observation deck is spectacular, with the city of Osaka illuminated beneath you.

Weekdays: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on a weekday, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier.

Seasonal Events: Tsutenkaku is also a great place to visit during special events, such as New Year's celebrations or summer festivals, when the tower may be lit up in special colors or there are additional festivities around the area.

6. Ticket Information

General Admission: Tickets for entry to Tsutenkaku Tower’s observation decks are typically around ¥800 to ¥1,000 for adults.

Combination Tickets: Sometimes, Tsutenkaku offers combination tickets that include entry to nearby attractions in Shinsekai or the Tennoji Zoo, which can be a great way to save money if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

7. Conclusion

Tsutenkaku Tower is one of Osaka’s most iconic landmarks, offering not only spectacular views of the city but also a glimpse into the history and culture of Osaka. Whether you're enjoying the neon-lit views from the observation deck, exploring the surrounding Shinsekai district, or experiencing some of the nostalgic charm of Osaka, Tsutenkaku is a must-visit spot that captures the spirit of Osaka—a mix of tradition and modernity, culture and innovation.