Tsutenkaku Tower 通天閣

Shinsekai is the place to experience the Osaka of old, and Tsutenkaku Tower is the defining landmark of the area. The 100-meter steel tower may not appear particularly tall by modern-day standards, but it has carved out its own place in local history as a symbol of progress and innovation. First head to the top to get a pleasant view of the city, and then go down to the third floor to see exhibits and artifacts showing the vibrant history of the area.

From Umeda Station, take the Midosuji Subway line to Dobutsuen-Mae Station. Upon exiting the station, look up for the 100-meter tall steel structure, and head towards it. The walk will take you a little under 10 minutes.

The first incarnation of the tower went up in 1912, connecting to an adjacent amusement park via ropeway. At the time, its 64-meter height made it the tallest in all of Asia. After the war, local volunteers rebuilt the tower to a 100-meter height, installing bright neon lights that change color with the seasons.

Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai together make a must-visit destination and can fill two to three hours of your schedule. Consider making a full day of it by visiting the adjacent Tennoji neighborhood , home to Abeno Harukas, the tallest building in Japan.