Tsutenkaku Tower

The icon of Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku Tower is one of Osaka’s most popular observation spots.

Built in 1912 and then rebuilt in 1956, this now 108-meter tall tower is a National Tangible Cultural Property, making it a must-see while in the area. Interestingly, it was originally modeled after not only the Eiffel Tower, but also the Arc de Triomphe.

On the first floor, you can see the tower’s first-ever ceiling mural — which lights up at night. From here, you can also head down to the basement floor, where you’ll find WakuWaku Land, a collection of shops themed around some of Osaka’s big food brands. This floor is also where you can access the elevator to the observation deck — Billiken (a smiley good luck figure) is waiting for you there.

The excitement continues onto the second floor (Under Floor) where you can find Billiken Gate, Billiken’s “Mouth of Truth”, and other official shops.

On the third floor, you can travel back in time — specifically 100 years — and learn about the history of Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku, and the ever-popular chocolate sticks, Pocky.

The fourth floor is home to the Light Observation Platform. This disco-like room features colorful lights and disco balls, offering a whole new way to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

On the fifth floor, you’ll find the ever-so-lucky Gold Billiken Statue and the Eight Deities of Good Fortune. Whether you’re wishing for luck in business or marriage, this is the power spot to visit. This floor also hosts the mian observation deck, where you can take in breathtaking views of Osaka’s urban landscape.

Tembo Paradise (TIP THE TSUTENKAKU)

Slightly higher than the regular observation deck, there’s a special outdoor platform which gives visitors a chance to experience the view from outside. This protrudiing observatory with its transparent floors gives the sensation of floating in the air — not for the faint-hearted.

Tower Slider

For some fun, consider going on the Tower Slider — a 60-meter-long steel slide that takes you from the third to the second floor. Being 22 meters above ground, you can take in the views of Osaka, albeit at a speedier pace than normal. Those who participate even get a video of them sliding down the slide.

Note: Those under the age of 5 and over 66, less than 120 cm tall, and more than 100kg, are not permitted to slide.

Tower Dive & Walk

If you are feeling adventurous, you can circle the rooftop of the observatory (26 meters above ground). Then, dive from 40 meters above ground, giving the sensation that you are flying in the air.

Note: The age requirement for this is 15 years and above.

How to buy tickets for Tsutenkaku Tower

Although you can buy tickets on the day, we recommend doing so in advance from Klook. Tickets for just the observation deck are ¥1,200 for adults and ¥600 for children.

On weekends and holidays, Tsutenkaku Tower becomes the most popular attraction in the area, meaning waiting times can easily increase. We recommend going along as early as possible to avoid the queue. Even the nighttime slot gets busy.

As mentioned, some of the extra attractions cost extra and require a timed entry:

• Tembo Paradise (TIP THE TSUTENKAKU): An additional ¥300 for adults and ¥200 for children.
• Tower Slider: ¥1,000 for adults and ¥500 for children.
• Tower Dive & Walk: ¥3,000 for adults and ¥2,000 for children.

How to get there

Tsutenkaku Tower is a 3-minute walk away from Ebisucho Station, and a 6-minute walk from Shin-Imamiya Station.