Tsūtenkaku

Overview

Tsūtenkaku is a 108-metre observation tower standing in the Shinsekai district of Naniwa-ku, Osaka. The first tower was erected in 1912, and the present structure is the second, completed in 1956. It is widely recognised as a landmark of the Shinsekai area, and its official mascot Billiken is displayed within the tower.

Highlights

• ●An observation tower measuring 108 metres in height, offering views over the surrounding city
• ●The second tower, built in 1956, succeeding the original of 1912
• ●Designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in 2007
• ●Counted among the 'Six Tower Brothers' and the '100 Landscapes of Heisei'

History

The first Tsūtenkaku was raised in 1912 as a symbol of the new Shinsekai district. The present, second tower was begun in 1955 and opened the following year, in 1956. It was designed by Tachū Naitō, an engineer responsible for many towers. In May 2007 it was designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.

Map

34.6522, 135.5061 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Walk through the streets of Shinsekai toward the tower
2. 2Ascend the observation deck for views over the surrounding city
3. 3View the Billiken mascot displayed within the tower
4. 4Conclude with a stroll through the nearby sightseeing district

Did you know?

💡 The name Tsūtenkaku is understood to mean a tall structure 'reaching heaven'.

Nearby spots