20 sightseeing spots to enjoy Umeda, from new mega complexes to retro places

Osaka, a major metropolis and popular tourist destination in the Kansai region, is known for its bustling center around Umeda Station, where crowds gather daily. With ongoing redevelopment, new attractions continue to emerge in the Umeda area. Here are some recommended sightseeing spots, from long-established stores with rich histories to newly opened facilities.

1. Osaka Station City: Umeda's proud shopping mall

Osaka Station City is a popular sightseeing spot filled with shops and restaurants. LUCUA, the largest shopping complex in Umeda, features BEAMS, making its debut in the Kansai region. With its direct connection to the station, visitors can enjoy shopping even during brief waiting times. The variety of dining options, including Osaka’s signature gourmet choices, makes it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even casual drinks.

The Atrium Plaza, with its open atrium and light clock, offers a relaxing atmosphere and is always bustling with visitors. The Carillon Plaza, featuring moving planters and a carillon clock, is another iconic spot, as well as the Garden of Serenity, where traditional Japanese beauty merges with modern culture, both of which are popular with tourists.

2. Umeda Sky Building: A sightseeing spot in Umeda that combines modern and retro styles

The Umeda Sky Building is a popular Umeda spot where modern and retro elements blend. With a salon featuring curated gifts, boutiques offering unique designs, and a flower shop, it’s always bustling with tourists enjoying shopping.

A variety of dining options are available, from Japanese and Chinese cuisine to international
dishes, cafes, and bars, allowing you to choose based on your mood. A particularly recommended hidden gem is Takimi Koji, known for its nostalgic charm.

Nestled among Umeda's modern skyscrapers, this Showa-era retro space has been faithfully recreated, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time. Here, you can enjoy Osaka specialties such as okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, Indian cuisine, shabu-shabu, and more, making it an ideal spot to satisfy your appetite.

3. Hankyu Department Store, a long-established department store in Umeda where you can enjoy historic buildings and some of Japan's largest events

Among the department stores that are a must-visit during Umeda sightseeing, Hankyu Department Store stands out for its immense popularity and trust as a long-established store opened during the Taisho period. It’s accessible via underground passageways from various subway stations in Umeda, making it convenient even on rainy days without worry of getting wet.

One of the first things that impresses visitors is the gorgeous interior. With a long history, the department store features furnishings of historical value and a retro design, with its iconic arched ceilings being particularly noteworthy. Architecture enthusiasts can enjoy exploring the store as if it were a museum or gallery.

While window shopping is the classic activity, be sure to check out the event halls that host large-scale fairs and events throughout the year. Especially popular is the Valentine’s chocolate event, one of the largest in Japan, which draws in many female visitors annually. Many women plan their sightseeing around this event during that season.

4. Umeda Loft: Find Any Item You're Looking for

When it comes to shopping in Umeda, *Umeda Loft* is a must-visit. This landmark in Chayamachi offers a wide array of items, making it popular among tourists as a spot to find everything from daily goods to perfect souvenirs. In addition to quirky products at *Village Vanguard*, there’s also a mini theater and a musical instrument store.

With products ranging from cosmetics, healthcare, and stationery to art-related and trendy DIY supplies, Umeda Loft has it all. The store also develops original products suited to the times, offering unique and practical items at affordable prices.

5. Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory: Enjoy an aerial stroll in the heart of the city

The Umeda Sky Building is a high-rise structure formed by two connected towers, recognized globally as one of the 20 Most Iconic Buildings in the World, alongside landmarks like the Sagrada Familia. Located on the 39th and 40th floors is the Kuchu Teien Observatory (Floating Garden Observatory), Japan’s only open-air observatory with no partitions or windows, allowing visitors to experience the wind and enjoy panoramic views from this high vantage point.

It’s a popular spot for tourists, offering stunning views in all directions, including the Osaka cityscape, the Yodo River, and Awaji Island. At the upper level, the SkyWalk gives visitors the sensation of floating in the air while taking in the breathtaking scenery. After sunset, the walkway is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.

6. Cine Libre: A relaxing movie theater for adults in Umeda

Cine Libre is a cinema located in the Tower East of the Umeda Sky Building. Unlike large cineplexes that continuously screen new releases, Cine Libre focuses on a curated selection of art films, including older works, making it a favorite among film enthusiasts visiting the area.

With a more relaxed, adult atmosphere, it’s ideal for dates. In addition to regular showtimes, there are morning and late-night screenings, allowing visitors to make the most of their time before or after sightseeing in Umeda. Be sure to check out the monthly discount days as well.

7. Grand Front Osaka: A classic Umeda tourist spot where you can make new discoveries

Grand Front Osaka is a massive multi-purpose complex that opened in 2013. It’s popular as a shopping mall featuring renowned domestic and international brand stores, as well as unique dining spots like a New York-based bakery restaurant and the Kinki University Fisheries Laboratory, famous for serving Kinki Maguro tuna.

At Knowledge Capital, visitors can casually try out new products developed through collaborations between research institutions, companies, and universities focused on cutting-edge technology. Beyond the classic tourist attractions of shopping and dining, Grand Front Osaka also offers a children’s play area (*Bornelund*), a bouldering facility, and other new spots to explore.

8. Umeda's proud, historic, gigantic underground shopping mall, "Whity Umeda"

Whity Umeda was established in 1963 and has long been known as Umechika, a beloved underground shopping area in Umeda. If you’ve visited Umeda, you’ve probably walked through this area at least once. Adjacent to the Umeda and Higashi-Umeda subway stations, it’s easily accessible and always bustling with visitors.

With around 190 stores offering everything from fashion, jewelry, and accessories to cosmetics, along with a variety of dining options, Whity Umeda is known as a place where you can find anything you need. The shopping zone at the entrance features shops targeting young female tourists, showcasing the unique appeal of Umeda’s underground shopping.

The underground street also includes convenient spots for resting and meeting up, such as a plaza with a Milan-inspired fountain, making it easy to navigate. With about 400,000 daily visitors, this extensive underground shopping street is a must-visit spot when sightseeing in Umeda.

9. Shin-Umeda Shokudogai: A place that continues to attract tourists with its taste and prices

Shin-Umeda Shokudo-gai is a popular dining area where you can enjoy delicious, affordable food in an authentic Osaka atmosphere. Located between Hankyu Department Store and Hankyu Umeda Station, it has a long history dating back to 1950. Known for its quality and reasonable prices, it’s a spot that even locals approve of. The dining area has a nostalgic and homey vibe, and friendly interactions with shop owners are part of the charm.

Originally established as an initiative to support retirees from the former Japan National Railways, the street initially had fewer than 20 shops, but now boasts over 100 eateries. Affordable yet filling, it showcases the spirit of Osaka and is a must-visit for anyone exploring Umeda’s culinary scene.

10. Osaka Science Museum: A planetarium with one of the world's largest screens

The Osaka Science Museum is a museum centered on the themes of energy and space. Its most popular attraction is the planetarium located underground, where a massive dome screen—the largest in the world—displays a stunningly immersive starry sky. It’s sure to captivate both children and adults alike. The seats also have excellent reclining features, so be sure to try them out.

The science shows, where staff demonstrate various scientific wonders right before your eyes, are also very popular. With around 200 interactive exhibits, visitors can spend an entire day without getting bored. It’s an ideal spot for rainy days or for sightseeing with children in Osaka.

11. Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street: The longest shopping street in Japan where you can experience the atmosphere of downtown Osaka

If you want to experience the everyday scenes of Umeda, Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is highly recommended. Known as the longest shopping street in Japan, it stretches about 2.6 kilometers from north to south and is lined with around 600 shops.

Popular for street food, it features a famous croquette shop frequently mentioned in the media and a handmade tofu shop with traditional methods. You can enjoy affordable and delicious sushi, Italian, Mexican, curry, and other international cuisines.

12. The National Museum of Art, Osaka: A place that also focuses on art education for children

For those looking to spend an academic day in Umeda, the National Museum of Art, Osaka is an ideal choice. The avant-garde design of the building’s exterior represents the flexibility of bamboo, symbolizing the growth and evolution of bamboo and contemporary art. Notably, it’s a completely underground museum, a rarity worldwide, offering a unique and otherworldly experience.

Inside, the museum primarily showcases contemporary art from the 20th century onward, with works collected from both Japan and abroad. Themed exhibitions covering various genres are popular events that draw visitors from across Japan. The museum also features a kid’s room stocked with over 300 picture books and offers guided tours tailored for children, making it an excellent spot for families visiting Umeda.

13. Herbis Plaza: Enjoy super brand shops and international gourmet food in Umeda

Herbis Plaza is a fashion building operated by Hanshin Electric Railway. Alongside famous brands and unique select shops, it also features Billboard Live Osaka, a live music venue, and Osaka Shiki Theatre, home to the Shiki Theatre Company, where visitors can enjoy live performances and musicals while sightseeing in Umeda.

The dining area offers a high-quality selection of international restaurants, including Chinese and Thai cuisine. Events such as Christmas illuminations and farmers' markets are held regularly, making it a vibrant spot for a fulfilling visit any time of year. It’s also conveniently connected to The Ritz-Carlton Osaka via a walkway.

14. Kids Plaza Osaka: A popular Umeda tourist spot that brings out the various potential of children

Kids Plaza Osaka is located just a short walk from Ogimachi Station on the Sakaisuji Subway Line and Tenma Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line. As a hands-on facility where children can learn about science and society through play, it’s popular among families visiting Umeda. Kids can experience activities like generating electricity or seeing the world through an insect’s eyes.

Each floor has a theme—Play, Create, Try—making it easy to explore. Activities are designed to encourage active participation, helping foster children’s independence. It’s an ideal spot to keep kids entertained during a visit to Umeda.

15. HEP FIVE: Umeda's symbol and a landmark for tourists

HEP FIVE is a multi-use commercial facility with a striking red Ferris wheel as its symbol. Integrated into the building structure, it’s the world’s first Ferris wheel built into a skyscraper, with part of it connected to the facility. Many tourists capture photos of this unique sight.

The Ferris wheel, equipped with heating and air conditioning, offers a comfortable ride year-round, reaching a maximum height of 106 meters. On clear days, riders can enjoy views not only of Umeda but also Mount Rokko, Mount Ikoma, and even the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. At night, enjoy the dazzling city lights along with the beautifully illuminated Ferris wheel, which is computer-controlled.

Most of the floors inside HEP FIVE are dedicated to fashion, with floors for accessories and dining as well. On the 8th and 9th floors, you’ll find the JOYPOLIS amusement center, making HEP FIVE a great spot for couples and families visiting Umeda.

16. Wear a kimono and travel back in time to Edo-period Osaka at the Osaka Museum of Living Now and Then

The main attraction of the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living is a floor that fully recreates the streets of Osaka from the late Edo period. With full-scale, authentic reproductions of a bathhouse, kimono shop, bookstore, small goods store, and back-alley houses, visitors can feel as though they've traveled back to the Edo period during their Osaka tour.

You can also rent a kimono to stroll around the recreated townscape, which is a unique experience. Additionally, there are models depicting the changing streetscapes of Osaka through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods, making it an ideal spot for those who want to learn more about Osaka’s history.

17. Cherry Blossom Passage "Osaka Mint Bureau"

The Japan Mint Osaka is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, known for its historic Sakura Passage. Since its establishment in 1871 as Japan’s first modern mint with advanced facilities, it has become a place for appreciating nature. The cherry blossoms that bloom densely throughout the area were opened to the public as the Sakura Passage, so that others could enjoy the beauty that was once exclusive to mint employees.

As the peak bloom period changes each year, dates are announced shortly beforehand. Despite the short one-week viewing period, the event attracts around 700,000 visitors from across Japan.

Visitors can see unique cherry varieties, including the year’s Special Blossom and rare types like the Benitemari. When evening falls, the illuminated lanterns create a serene and beautiful atmosphere.

18. Utsubori Park: A tourist spot where you can feel nature

Utsubo Park is a natural park located about 2 km south of Osaka Station. The park’s expansive grounds are divided into East and West sections by Nanwa Avenue. With seasonal flower beds, relaxing fountains, and playground equipment, it’s an ideal spot to visit with children. The rows of zelkova trees offer a refreshing forest-like atmosphere for visitors.

A highlight of Utsubo Park is the 9,000 square meter rose garden, featuring over 3,000 rose bushes in various colors and scents that delight visitors. The elegant rose-shaped lighting fixtures are particularly noteworthy; the LED monuments resemble glowing roses, enhancing the ambiance for evening strolls.

19. Ogimachi Park: An urban oasis within walking distance of Umeda

Ogimachi Park, cherished as an oasis by Osaka locals, is located about 1 km east of Osaka Station and around a 15-minute walk from Umeda Station. Adjacent to Kids Plaza Osaka, where children can enjoy various interactive activities, the park is also known for its large-scale playground equipment like the mountain slider and jungle gym.

The park features a tunnel slide, rock climbing areas, and other facilities that allow kids to play to their hearts' content. It also includes an indoor pool, open year-round. Surrounded by high-rise buildings, this park offers a rare natural space, making it a great spot to stop for a picnic lunch.

20. Umeda's new tourist spot, NU Chayamachi

NU Chayamachi is a fashion building located very close to Hankyu Umeda Station. It features carefully curated select shops and popular goods stores, making it a must-visit spot for shopping in Umeda. With over 75 stores, it offers a variety of options including fashion, accessories, cosmetics, nail salons, and music-related shops. There are also unique boutiques, some of which are firsts in the Kansai region, and pubs where you can enjoy beer—shops for both women and men to enjoy.

◎Summary of sightseeing spots to enjoy Umeda

Umeda, a bustling hub in the heart of Osaka, attracts countless visitors with its dynamic mix of fashion, entertainment, cuisine, and art, always at the forefront of the latest trends. From scenic spots and one of Japan's largest commercial complexes to historic areas full of retro charm, enjoy the best of both modern and traditional Osaka in Umeda.

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