Tsutenkaku Tower
The basics
This retro tower is one of the best places in town to get a feel for vintage Osaka. Besides taking in the views from the observation deck, visitors can watch a cultural performance in the basement theater, do some shopping, or relax in a rooftop garden. Many cycling tours of the city pass beneath the tower.
Things to know before you go
- Tsutenkaku Tower is a hit with kids and first-time visitors.
- Tsutenkaku Tower is wheelchair accessible.
- Plan to spend two to three hours visiting the tower and exploring the surrounding neighborhood.
How to get there
The tower is in the south of Osaka in the retro entertainment district of Shinsekai. It’s a 3-minute walk from Ebisucho Station on the Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line, and a 10-minute walk from Dobutsuen-mae Station.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The tower is open daily through the year from 9am to 9pm, though the ticket office closes 30 minutes early. The views are the best after dark and on clear days.
The Story of Billiken
Spend some time in Osaka, and you’re likely to spot a statue of a Buddha-like figure with pointy elf ears and a mischievous smile. This is Billiken. Created by an art teacher from Missouri, Billiken gained popularity in Osaka when a statue was placed within Luna Park. The replica inside Tsutenkaku was installed in 1980, and today, visitors come to offer donations and rub his feet in exchange for good luck.