Kaikyō Yume Tower, Observation tower in Shimonoseki, Japan.
Kaikyō Yume Tower is an observation tower in Shimonoseki that stands 153 meters tall. Its spherical observation deck is enclosed by a transparent glass shell made of thousands of individual glass panels, allowing visitors to see the surroundings from every angle.
The tower was built in 1996 as part of an international trade and cultural center in western Yamaguchi. Its construction marked a turning point for tourism development in the region.
The structure functions as a center for international trade events and exhibitions, facilitating business connections between Japanese and foreign companies.
You can reach the observation deck using a glass elevator, though waiting times can be longer on weekends and holidays. The site has cafes and shops nearby if you want to spend extra time there.
From the observation platform, you can see where the Seto Inland Sea and the Japan Sea meet - a rare geographic view. On clear days, you can also spot the mountain ranges of Kyushu across the water.
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