The Umeda Sky Building is a prominent landmark in Osaka, Japan, known for its unique architecture and an impressive observation deck offering panoramic views of the city. The Umeda Sky Building is located in the Umeda district of Osaka, one of the city's major business and entertainment hubs. 

Umeda Sky Building

This building is another must-visit if ever you're going on a trip to Osaka.


What to See at the Umeda Sky Building

The Umeda Sky Building consists of two towers that are connected at the top by the Floating Garden Observatory. The design resembles an urban jungle gym.

The highlight of the building is the Floating Garden Observatory. It's an observation deck that's situated on the top floors and it gives you breathtaking views of Osaka and beyond. The deck is an open-air platform surrounded by a circular enclosure, offering a 360-degree view of the city. This was a nice treat as I always make it a point to look for panoramic views whenever I'm visiting a new city.

Umeda Sky Building
panoramic views from the open-air deck

To reach the Floating Garden Observatory, visitors take a glass-enclosed escalator known as the "Escalator through Heaven," which passes between the two towers. This escalator provides an impressive view as you go up the floors. There's also an escalator offering the same stunning views on the way down.

The building complex also features shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The basement floor features the Takimi Koji gourmet street, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese and international cuisines.

Umeda Sky Building
the Escalator through Heaven

Accessing the Umeda Sky Building

It's free to enter the building but there's an admission fee to access the Floating Garden Observatory. As of writing, the fee is JPY1,000 or around PHP370 for visitors aged 16 and up. Seniors and kids can get tickets at reduced rates. Do note that prices are subject to change, and it's always a good idea to check the latest information on the official website for up-to-date pricing.

If you get the Osaka E-Pass, you get free admission to the Umeda Sky Building observatory. All you have to do is present your mobile pass and have the tour staff scan the QR code. 

Umeda Sky Building
the circular enclosure of the Floating Garden Observatory

How to Get to the Umeda Sky Building

The building is easily accessible by public transportation if you're coming from any point in Osaka. If you're taking the subway, the closest station is Umeda Station through the Midosuji Line. From Umeda Station, you can walk to the Umeda Sky Building in less than fifteen minutes.

Alternatively, you can take that bus as various routes operate in the Umeda area. You can use Google Maps or other navigation apps to know which buses to take. Or if you prefer a more convenient way, you can always take a taxi but it'll be a lot more expensive.

Umeda Sky Building

If you're coming from anywhere in the central Umeda area or Osaka Station, just follow the signs to the building. The streets are well-marked, and you can always use Google Maps to guide you.


I'd definitely recommend including the Umeda Sky Building in your itinerary if you're visiting Osaka. It's worth it.