At the entrance to Osaka’s Shinsekai district, look up at the silver-gray steel tower rising straight into the sky, and you’ll instantly be surrounded by the strong retro Showa-era atmosphere of an old downtown neighborhood. This is Tsutenkaku Tower, the landmark that embodies the spirit of Osaka! Its bold name means “a tall building reaching the sky.” The streets on both sides are filled with extravagant giant 3D pufferfish signs, colorful kushikatsu signs, and lanterns, with the towering structure standing right in the center. No matter which angle you choose, every photo captures an authentic, iconic Osaka scene!
Head inside and take the elevator straight to the observation deck. Besides getting a sweeping view of downtown Osaka, Tennoji Park, and the bustling cityscape around the distant Abeno building, the most important thing to do is rub the soles of the smiling god of good fortune, Billiken. Legend says that if you sincerely rub the smooth soles of his feet, you can take home plenty of good luck, wealth, and romantic fortune!
In recent years, Tsutenkaku has taken the experience to new heights. It now features not only a thrilling transparent observation deck suspended in the air, but also a massive 60-meter spiral slide called the “Tower Slider.” You can scream your way through the tube from the third floor all the way down to the first basement level—it’s incredibly exciting and fun! After dark, the neon lights at the top of the tower even change color according to the next day’s weather forecast, watching over Osaka’s lively city that never sleeps with a warm and humorous glow.
