The Umeda Tower

The Umeda Tower is a skyscraper in Kita with two 40-story towers connected by glass bridges and escalators that cross an open atrium space. The structure reaches 173 meters high and contains office spaces, shops, and restaurants throughout its levels.

The building was completed in 1993 when Japan's economic bubble burst and the original four-tower plan was reduced to two. This reduction marked a turning point in the city's development during a period of economic change.

The basement recreates an early Showa Period market street with traditional restaurants and architectural details that reflect daily Japanese life in the 1920s. Visitors can taste authentic local dishes and walk through this nostalgic recreation of a historical shopping area.

Access to the Floating Garden Observatory is by glass escalators that transport visitors to the 39th floor where panoramic views of the city extend in all directions. On clear days the view reaches for several kilometers across the landscape.

The structure integrates several interior gardens such as the Island Garden and Vegetable Garden that create green spaces within the concrete structure. These hidden gardens offer visitors an unexpected place to rest amid the urban surroundings.

Location: Kita-ku

Floors above the ground: 43

GPS coordinates: 34.70792,135.50125

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:02