Umeda sky building, an iconic landmark in Osaka, was designed by Hiroshima Hara and constructed by Takengawa Corporation. The building’s innovative architecture design and its glass elevators from 35th to 39th floor elevates more enchanting glamour to the building.

Umeda Sky Building is ranked as one of the “must-visit” tourist spots in Osaka. First you will go to the 3/F Kuchu Teien Observatory entrance and take the elevator to the 35/F. Then from 35/F you will take the covered escalator (I call it a stairways to heaven) all the way to 39/F and then walk up a flight of stairs to the 40/F observatory deck. Don’t miss the chance of watching the city view in motion while you are on the escalator. Once you reach the 40th floor circular Kuchu Teien (mid air garden) Observatory deck, you take a walk round the deck and be dazzled by the spectacular 360 degree panoramic views of the city. The best time to visit umeda Sky is at sunset hours as you will be mesmerized by the amazing view of the city in the sunset light. The twinkling lights on the galaxy path (a new attraction feature) around the observatory deck will be lit up right after the sunset. You will feel like travelling though the galaxy.

The Umeda Sky entry fee is 2000 yen for adults and its opening hours are from 930am-1030pm. After enjoying the sunset view you can drink a coffee at the Sky 40 and imagine you were sipping a coffee and floating in the clouds (this reminds me of my book written few years ago: Nabivagant : walking on the clouds) Also you can buy a heart shaped padlock with anniversary dates or special dates engraved for treasured memories and lock it at the rails at a platform beneath the circular walk path of the Kuchu Teien.

A note for those who will visit Osaka in August, buy a special ticket to watch the firework of the Naniwa Yodogawa fire festival at the 40/F observatory deck on August 3. The time slot for this special ticket is 330-9pm. Go early to get a good spot.