Osaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan area after Tokyo. About 7% of Japan's total population is concentrated in Osaka, and approximately 10% of foreigners living in Japan reside in Osaka.
Due to its thriving trade in food ingredients from all over the country for more than 300 years, Osaka has developed a unique food culture, earning it nicknames such as "The Nation's Kitchen" and "The City of Kuidaore" (eat till you drop). As a result, it remains one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations for gourmet experiences.
Osaka, ranking among the top tourist destinations in Japan, is not only famous for its food culture but also for its photogenic spots and impactful attractions. In the heart of Osaka, you'll find skyscrapers like Abeno Harukas and the Umeda Sky Building, which are also popular spots to enjoy the Osaka night view 2024.
The night view of Osaka is incredibly beautiful, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad. In this article, we'll introduce the must-see Osaka night view spots for 2024 that you should definitely enjoy when visiting Osaka.
Osaka Has Numerous Spots to Enjoy Dazzling Urban Landscapes
Osaka's nights are filled with a charm different from the daytime, offering various ways to enjoy the dazzling urban landscape.
In densely populated Osaka, countless lights illuminate simultaneously when night falls. From high-rise buildings, a night view like a starry sky spreads below, which is incredibly romantic. In Japan, places with beautiful night views are also popular as proposal spots.
In addition to the night views from high places, you can also enjoy strolling through areas with illuminated structures and impactful neon streets, which is another charm of Osaka.
From here, we'll introduce spots where you can fully enjoy the night view of Osaka, which shows a different expression from daytime, divided by area.
Introducing 12 Spots to Enjoy Beautiful Night Views in Osaka by Area for 2024
Northern Osaka City
Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory
Source: Kansai Denryoku
The Floating Garden Observatory of the Umeda Sky Building is an observatory bridging Tower East and Tower West, offering a 360-degree view of Osaka's night scenery.
The rooftop corridor "Sky Walk" at a height of 173 meters is an open space without a roof, where you can enjoy the beautiful urban landscape while feeling the pleasant breeze.
Especially at night, the lighting at your feet creates a path of light, enveloping the observatory in a fantastical atmosphere. You can enjoy the Osaka night view 2024 as if you've opened a jewelry box.
- Address: 1-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita-ku, Osaka
- Business hours: 9:30 to 22:30 (Last entry: 22:00)
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: 06-6440-3855
- Official website: https://www.skybldg.co.jp/
Group of Historical Buildings in Nakanoshima
The Nakanoshima area in Osaka is a charming night view spot where history and culture breathe.
This area is home to buildings recognized for their high historical value, such as the Osaka City Central Public Hall and the Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library, as well as retro bridges. When night falls, they are beautifully illuminated, creating an even more stylish atmosphere.
Not only is strolling around the area recommended, but enjoying the illuminations from the water by using a river cruise is also suggested. On the river cruise, you can enjoy an even more fantastical scenery as the historical buildings reflect on the water's surface.
- Address: Nakanoshima area, Kita-ku, Osaka
- Illumination hours: From sunset to 22:00 (some until 23:00)
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: None
- Official website: https://www.suito-osaka.jp/special/history/building_nakanoshima.html
Yodogawa Riverside Park
Yodogawa Riverside Park is an excellent hidden spot to view the Umeda area in northern Osaka city center. The illuminated high-rise buildings, including the Umeda Sky Building and Grand Front Osaka, reflect on the surface of the Yodogawa River, creating a fantastical scene.
This place, where the calmly flowing Yodogawa River combines with the lights of the buildings, is an excellent night view spot for photography enthusiasts and couples as it's not very crowded.
One of the attractive points of Yodogawa Riverside Park is that there's nothing obstructing the view. You can fully enjoy the beautiful Osaka night view 2024 of the Umeda area.
- Address: Yodogawa Riverbed, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka
- Business hours: 24 hours
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: 06-6994-0006 (Yodogawa Riverside Park Moriguchi Service Center)
- Official website: https://www.yodogawa-park.jp/annai/nisinaka-juso/
Southern Osaka City
Abeno Harukas HARUKAS300
Source: Official website
The observatory of Abeno Harukas, HARUKAS300, is indeed an excellent spot to view the Osaka night view 2024. From a height of about 300 meters above ground, you can see a panoramic view including Osaka Castle and Tsutenkaku.
On clear days, you can even see the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Awaji Island, Kyoto Tower, and Kansai International Airport.
As Abeno Harukas was the tallest building in Japan until November 2023, there's nothing obstructing the view. You can enjoy a beautiful night view without any interference. Regular nighttime events are also held in conjunction with night view appreciation, so it's a good idea to check before visiting.
- Address: 1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka
- Business hours: 9:00 to 22:00
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: 06-6621-0300
- Official website: https://www.abenoharukas-300.jp/observatory/index.html
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a representative spot where you can enjoy Osaka's vibrant night view and gourmet food. This area is lined with eye-catching large three-dimensional signboards and vivid advertising neon signs, strongly reflecting the bright character of Osaka people.
Particularly famous is the signboard of the Japanese confectionery company "Glico". The pose of a man raising both hands and reaching the goal is popular with tourists, and it has become a spot for taking photos in the same pose.
When illuminated at night, 5 patterns of video are broadcast for 2 minutes every 15 minutes, so be sure to check it out.
If you use the Dotonbori river cruise, you can also enjoy the night view of Dotonbori from a different angle. There are many cheerful people in Osaka, so they will surely wave to you from the bridge.
- Address: Dotonbori area, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Illumination hours: 30 minutes after sunset to 24:00 (Dotonbori Glico Sign)
- Closed days: None
- Phone number: 06-6211-4542 (Dotonbori Merchants Association)
- Official website: http://www.dotonbori.or.jp/ja/
Shinsekai
Shinsekai is an area created in 1912 centered around Tsutenkaku, where you can experience Osaka's deep culture and nostalgic townscape. It strongly retains the atmosphere of good old Osaka. The flashy signboards of restaurants and neon lights shine brightly, making the whole town feel like a festival.
Tsutenkaku, which stands at the center of Shinsekai, is said to be modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris. When illuminated, it creates an even more attractive night view in conjunction with the neons of Shinsekai.
As it's a lively place that attracts not only tourists but also locals, you can experience not only the illuminations but also the cheerful atmosphere typical of Osaka.
- Address: Ebisuhigashi area, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Business hours: Vary by store
- Closed days: Vary by store
- Phone number: Vary by store
- Official website: https://shinsekaiofficial.com/
Tsutenkaku Tower Observatory
Source: Official website
Tsutenkaku Tower, standing at 108 meters tall, is a representative observation tower of Osaka. Not only is it dazzling from the outside, but the night view from its observatory is also highly recommended as part of the Osaka Night View 2024 experience.
While the height of the observatory isn't exceptionally high, the view of Shinsekai spread out below is breathtaking. The special observation deck "Tenbo Paradise" is located outdoors, offering an open and airy atmosphere.
In addition to the night view, each floor of Tsutenkaku Tower features various attractions, such as glittering mirror balls and golden decorations, allowing visitors to enjoy Osaka's characteristically flashy presentations.
- Address: 1-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 10:00 - 19:30
- Closed: None
- Phone: 06-6641-9555
- Official Website: https://www.tsutenkaku.co.jp/index.html
Eastern Osaka City
Osaka Castle
Source: PR TIMES
Osaka Castle was built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a famous shogun who aimed to unify Japan, as his base of operations.
The area surrounding Osaka Castle is now developed as a park, serving as a place of relaxation for Osaka citizens. At night, Osaka Castle and its surroundings, including stone walls, gates, and bridges, are illuminated, creating a majestic atmosphere that's perfect for enjoying the Osaka Night View 2024.
Every year, there's cherry blossom illumination in spring and an illumination event in winter. If your timing is right, be sure to visit during these special occasions.
Osaka Castle Main Tower Observatory
Source: Official website
From the observatory on the top floor of Osaka Castle Main Tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka's vast cityscape. While it usually closes at 5 PM, during specific periods such as summer, the opening hours are extended, allowing visitors to enjoy the night view as part of the Osaka Night View 2024 experience.
With no tall buildings nearby to obstruct the view, you can enjoy an unparalleled vista. Feel free to imagine yourself as Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who aimed to unify Japan, as you gaze upon the night view of Osaka.
- Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
- Closed: December 28 - January 1
- Phone: 06-6941-3044
- Official Website: https://www.osakacastle.net/
Osaka Museum of History
Source: Wikipedia
From the Osaka Museum of History, you can see a precious view where the historical Osaka Castle blends with modern skyscrapers, offering a unique perspective on the Osaka Night View 2024.
While it used to be open until 8 PM on Fridays, the current change in opening hours has eliminated the opportunity to enjoy the night view from the Osaka Museum of History. However, special events like Night Museum are occasionally held, so if your schedule allows, be sure to visit during these times.
The view of the illuminated Osaka Castle Keep and the modern high-rise buildings in the city center is worth seeing, as it showcases the contrast between Osaka's old and new.
- Address: 4-1-32 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 9:30 - 17:00
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Phone: 06-6946-5728
- Official Website: https://www.osakamushis.jp/
Western Osaka City
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
Source: Official website
The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, one of Osaka's symbols, boasts a world-class size with a height of 112.5m and a diameter of 100m. It takes about 15 minutes for one revolution, during which you can enjoy a breathtaking night view as part of your Osaka Night View 2024 experience.
Below, you can see the night view of Universal Studios Japan, the high-rise buildings in the Umeda area, and to the west, the night view of Kobe and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The gondolas have announcements in both Japanese and English, making it easy for foreign visitors to enjoy without worry.
As you can see quite far, you'll be able to enjoy the romantic sparkle of Osaka. The Ferris wheel itself is decorated with colorful LED lights, creating effects like a giant kaleidoscope, fireworks display, and even showing the next day's weather forecast. You can enjoy not only the night view but also the illumination after getting off the Ferris wheel.
- Address: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 10:00 - 22:00
- Closed: None
- Phone: 06-6576-6222
- Official Website: http://tempozan-kanransya.com/tempozan-kanransya.com/
Osaka Prefectural Government Sakishima Building Cosmo Tower Observatory
Source: Official website
The night view from the Osaka Prefectural Government Sakishima Building Cosmo Tower Observatory is one of the hidden gems for enjoying the Osaka Night View 2024. You can leisurely appreciate the beauty of the Kansai Bay Area.
This observatory offers a 360-degree panoramic view, allowing you to see the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Ferris wheel, the Minato Bridge, and a panorama of Osaka city with these landmarks in the background. You can even see as far as Kobe and Kansai International Airport.
It's not usually crowded, so you can enjoy it without stress. There are also several box seats for couples, making it a popular date spot for locals.
You can thoroughly enjoy the night view of Osaka at your own pace.
- Address: Sakishima Cosmo Tower, 1-14-16 Nankokita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 11:00 - 22:00
- Closed: Mondays
- Phone: 06-6615-6055
- Official Website: https://sakishima-observatory.com/
Three Recommended Restaurants to Enjoy Delicious Osaka Cuisine in Prime Locations
The Four Seasons
Source: Official website
"The Four Seasons," located in Hotel New Otani Osaka, is a bar adjacent to Osaka Castle Park with an unparalleled view of Osaka Castle, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the Osaka Night View 2024.
They offer original cocktails and a diverse à la carte menu. Dishes like grilled lamb, cold roast pork, and slider dogs are perfect accompaniments to your drinks.
Through the large glass windows of the mood-filled interior, you can enjoy the illuminated Osaka Castle and the lights of the surrounding buildings while savoring delicious food and drinks, spending a relaxing adult time.
- Address: Hotel New Otani Osaka 18F, 1-4-1 Shiromi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 12:00 - 16:00 / 17:00 - 23:00 (Last order 22:30)
- Closed: None
- Phone: 06-6949-3294
- Official Website: https://www.newotani.co.jp/osaka/restaurant/4seasons/
Osaka Nada Man
Source: Official website
Located on the 24th floor, the top floor of the Imperial Hotel Osaka, "Nada Man" offers a prime location to enjoy the Osaka Night View 2024, with a spectacular view of Osaka's cityscape and the twinkling of high-rise buildings below. Here, you can savor traditional Japanese cuisine amidst this breathtaking night scenery.
Japanese cuisine, known as "Washoku," was registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2013, recognizing it as a traditional dietary culture of the Japanese. Washoku not only maximizes the flavors of ingredients through its cooking methods but also expresses the beauty of nature and the changing of seasons.
In other words, the dishes served at Nada Man can be enjoyed not only for their taste but also visually, with beautiful tableware and sophisticated presentations that are a feast for the eyes.
At Nada Man, you can enjoy exquisite Japanese cuisine served on carefully selected tableware with refined presentations. Take this opportunity to fully appreciate Japanese "Washoku" along with the night view of Osaka.
- Address: Imperial Hotel Osaka 24F, 1-8-50 Tenmabashi, Kita-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 17:30 - 21:30 (Last order 20:30)
- Closed: None
- Phone: 06-6355-3370
- Official Website: https://store.nadaman.co.jp/pages/restaurant_osaka_access
Pierre
Source: Official website
"Pierre," a French restaurant located on the 20th floor of the InterContinental Hotel Osaka, has been awarded one Michelin star in the "Michelin Guide Kyoto-Osaka 2024" for eight consecutive years. From its high-ceilinged and spacious interior, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Osaka city while savoring authentic French cuisine made with seasonal ingredients, making it an excellent spot to experience the Osaka Night View 2024.
One of its unique features is the use of Japanese ingredients, adding a local twist to French cuisine. You can leisurely enjoy delicious food along with the beautiful scenery, creating a dreamy experience.
- Address: InterContinental Hotel Osaka 20F, 3-60 Ofuka-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka
- Opening Hours: 17:30 - 21:30 (Last order 20:00)
- Closed: None
- Phone: 06-6374-5700
- Official Website: https://icosaka.com/restaurant/pierre/