Umeda, also known as Kita, is the northern part of Osaka and a place you absolutely must visit during your stay in the city. It is a center of modern architecture, huge shopping complexes, and observation decks, as well as a place where history blends with a modern lifestyle.
Umeda was our base throughout our entire stay in Osaka. Quieter than the city center, yet with a huge number of attractions within walking distance or a short subway ride. In this guide, I’ll show you what to see in Umeda and how to feel the true pulse of northern Osaka.
UMEDA (KITA) – DISTRICT LOCATION
UMEDA SKY BUILDING
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- LOCATION: Umeda Sky Building
- OPENING HOURS: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- TICKET PRICES: ¥2000, reduced (ages 4–12) ¥500, ¥3300 – couple option (details on the website)
- DETAILS ON THE WEBSITE: Umeda Sky Building
EXTERIOR
Umeda Sky Building is impressive even from a distance. The two futuristic towers, connected at a height of 173 meters, look like something out of a science fiction movie and have been one of Osaka’s most recognizable landmarks for years.
The building was designed by architect Hiroshi Hara, whose vision was to create a “city in the sky” a structure that not only dominates the skyline but also invites visitors to explore it.
On the south side of the building, beautiful gardens have been designed. In some areas, you truly feel like you are in a jungle.
OBSERVATORY DECK – FLOATING GARDEN OBSERVATORY
The main attraction is the Floating Garden Observatory, a circular observation deck on the roof, offering a spectacular panorama of Osaka. The view at sunset and after dark is among the most beautiful in the city, especially when the illuminated streets form a dense network of lights stretching all the way to the horizon.
Glass elevators and escalators suspended high above the ground lead to the observation deck, which in itself is an unforgettable experience.
Inside the building, there are restaurants, cafés, and Takimi Koji – an underground street styled to resemble the early 20th century, full of traditional dining spots, which contrasts with the futuristic architecture of the towers. It’s a great place for a break during sightseeing or for a dinner with local flavors.
UMEKITA PARK
Umekita Park is the green heart of modern Umeda and a perfect example of how Osaka combines futuristic architecture with spaces for relaxation. The park was created on the site of former railway infrastructure and today serves as a symbol of a newer, more open, and resident-friendly part of the city. Surrounded by skyscrapers, hotels, and modern complexes, it provides a pleasant contrast to the concrete panorama of northern Osaka.
The park is part of the larger Umekita (Grand Green Osaka) project, which aims to transform northern Osaka into one of the city’s most modern and eco-friendly districts. Thanks to its proximity to Osaka and Umeda stations, it is an ideal spot for a short break during sightseeing, a picnic, or a peaceful walk after a busy day in the city.
NAKATSU DISTRICT – OTHER VIEWS
Nakatsu is the part of northern Osaka located just next to the bustling Umeda. However, it offers a completely different city rhythm: calmer, more local, and authentic. Just a few minutes’ walk from the skyscrapers and shopping centers, you can find yourself among narrow streets, low-rise buildings, and small cafés that seem to live at their own pace.
AREA AROUND UMEDA STATION
The area around Umeda Station is one of the most important spots in Osaka. This is where railway lines, the metro, and the Shinkansen intersect, making it the city’s main transportation hub. For many travelers, it is also their first encounter with Osaka. Umeda Station and Osaka Station are surrounded by huge shopping centers, office buildings, and hotels. In this part of the city, everything is close by. Restaurants, cafes, and shops can be found both above ground and underground. The extensive network of underground passages allows you to get around the area regardless of the weather. The network is so vast that walking from one station to the metro can take even several minutes.
It’s also a great spot for shopping and dining. Near Umeda Station, you’ll find popular department stores, food courts, and restaurants serving both Japanese and international cuisine. In the evening, the area lights up with neon signs and takes on a distinctly metropolitan vibe.
TENJIN-BASHI-SUJI STREET
Tenjin-bashi-suji is the longest covered shopping street in Japan. It stretches over 2.5 kilometers across several districts in northern Osaka. This street offers a perfect glimpse into the daily life of the city. Walking along this unique street, it’s easy to notice the contrast between tradition and modernity. Alongside old shops and family-run restaurants, there are modern cafés and bars.
OSAKA TENMANGU SHRINE
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Osaka and the spiritual heart of the Tenjin-bashi-suji area. The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and education, and is therefore often visited by students praying for success in their exams. The shrine grounds provide a peaceful contrast to the bustling shopping street nearby. Wooden gates, lanterns, and decorative architectural details create a classic Japanese shrine atmosphere. It is especially beautiful in spring, when the plum blossoms bloom, a symbol associated with the shrine’s deity.
Entrance to the shrine grounds is free, and visiting can easily be combined with a walk along the longest covered shopping street in Japan.
NAKANOSHIMA ISLAND
ROSE GARDENS
Nakanoshima is a narrow island located between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers, right in the center of Osaka. It is one of the city’s most important cultural and business areas, while also offering a peaceful space perfect for a walk. In its eastern part, there are beautiful rose gardens. This is a place to relax away from the city’s hustle and bustle, especially in spring during the rose bloom or in the evening when the area is subtly illuminated.
MUSEUMS AND CITY HALL
On Nakanoshima Island, you can find the National Museum of Art, Osaka, the Museum of Oriental Ceramics, as well as elegant concert halls and galleries. A distinctive landmark is also the Nakanoshima Public Hall, a historic neoclassical building that stands out against the modern architecture. In the evenings, animations are projected onto the city hall building, and the illuminated riverside avenue looks as if a festival is taking place.
Along the island stretches Nakanoshima Park, a popular walking spot with views of the river and the surrounding skyscrapers.
WHERE TO STAY IN OSAKA?
Choosing accommodation in Osaka mainly depends on how you want to spend your time. The city offers everything: from modern hotels to cozy hostels and traditional ryokans. If you decide to book accommodation in Osaka, I recommend using the Booking.com portal, which we have trusted dozens of times. Through the link, you can get a 15% discount on your booking!
Enter your preferred dates and book safely:
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