Related articleDramatic Architecture and Views at Osaka’s Umeda Sky Building
Daytime
The Umeda Sky Building from a distance.
Moving closer, the distinct form of the Floating Garden Observatory comes into view.
The escalators to and from the observatory seem to hang in the sky.
Each escalator is 45 meters long. A quick glance over the railing reveals how high up riders are.
Some say the escalators and the observatory make it seem like a space station.
The observatory is open-air so you can feel the wind as you look at the surrounding scenery.
Osaka’s office district and major skyscrapers are to the south.
To the west is the Yodogawa River and Rokkō mountain range. On a clear day, it is possible to see the Akashi-Kaikyō Bridge that connects Honshū with Awajishima island.
Planes take off and land at Osaka International (Itami) Airport to the north.
The glass exterior reflects the sky, clouds, and nearby buildings.
Evening and Night
Visitors flock to the western deck to admire the sunset, so arrive early to grab a good spot.
With no skyscrapers to block the way, the west side offers excellent views of the sunset.
On fine days in February and October the sun can be seen setting near the Akashi-Kaikyō Bridge.
A time-lapse film showing the sunset viewed from the Floating Garden Observatory.
The skyline to the south lights up after sunset.
The building itself is lit up, enhancing its futuristic atmosphere.
Black lights in the observatory set the white clothes of visitors aglow.
The Lumi Sky Walk shines at night.
The night lights of Osaka’s skyline.
The building looks almost as if it were built for a journey into space.
The building is an impressive sight both during the day and at night.
Inside the Building
Visitors can take in the sights while staying warm and dry on the fortieth floor observation deck.
Elevated seats looking out over the city to the south are popular with couples and families.
Counter seats to the north offer a sweeping view of the Yodogawa River.
Sitting in the lounge area is a leisurely way to enjoy the view.
Visitors can buy food and drinks at café Sky 40.
Sky 40 has a wide selection of imported beers.
Exhibits include a video of the building’s construction and other information.
The gift shop sells Umeda Sky Building goods and other Osaka souvenirs.
A retro-style restaurant in the basement serves up local cuisine.
(Originally written in Japanese and published on October 18, 2016. Photographs by Miwa Noriaki.)
