The Tsūtenkaku Tower, an enormous construction and tribute to a god of good fortune, has become an icon of Osaka. Take an hour or two to discover the eight-sided tower, its commanding views over the city and its statue of Billiken, a Japanese god of happiness.
Towering at 64 metres (210 feet) high, the Tsūtenkaku Tower was the tallest tower in Japan at its time of construction in 1912. The famous Japanese architect and engineer, Tachu Naito, redesigned and rebuilt the tower in 1956 and brought it to 103 metres (338 feet). Today, the tower remains a spiritual and visible symbol of resilience and prosperity in Osaka.
The tower is a popular tourist destination and lines for its elevator may be lengthy. The ride to the top is well worth the wait. Discover the story behind the building of the tower on the display panels in the lift and gaze out the window as the ground rapidly disappears from beneath your feet.
Stop off at the fifth floor to find a statue of Billiken. It’s said to be good luck if you make a donation and rub his feet.
Once you reach the top, experience the unparalleled, 360-degree view of the Osaka city skyline. See the streets from a bird’s-eye view and work out where you might want to visit next.
Browse through the souvenir shop as you exit and pick up a Tsūtenkaku Tower charm. Get a tower-shaped water bottle, an origami swan or a miniature statue of the smiling Billiken.
If the lines are too long during the day, come back at night and see the bright neon lights highlighting the tower’s octagonal shape. The lights, many of them huge advertisements, make for a handy landmark when exploring the city.
After your visit, enjoy a meal from the food courts located below the tower. Go to the lawns of nearby Tennoji Park to relax.
Tsūtenkaku Tower is easy to reach via the city’s subway system. The tower is open year-round from morning to night. A small admission fee is charged for entry. Discounts apply to children and students.
