\n\u2460 Walking as a mode of transportation, to spend as little time in transit as possible.<\/strong>
\n\u2461Balancing indoor and outdoor destinations to prevent disruptions caused by weather.<\/strong>
\n\u2462Using QR codes for tickets to make the process as smooth as possible.<\/strong><\/p>\n
And of course, having a fun day!\u2028<\/p>\n
Here is what I have planned: \u3010start the afternoon in Umeda \u2192 Umeda Sky Building \u2192 Art Museum and Cafe \u2192 end at an experiential restaurant in the evening<\/strong><\/p>\n First stop: Umeda Sky Building\u2019s Floating Garden Observatory. Once you arrive at Sky Building, hop on the high-speed elevator and zoom straight up to the 35th floor!<\/p>\n Because the elevator has glass windows, you can see a beautiful view stretching out between the buildings. And from the very moment you step on the elevator, you\u2019ll feel like you’re being transported into a whole new world. You\u2019ll walk along the straight sky corridor connecting the 35th and 39th floors. The higher you go, the farther the cityscape stretches below. It was so exciting. What a great anticipation builder!<\/p>\n When you finally reach the top, use the Osaka Enjoy Pass to enter the Floating Garden Observatory. The Floating Garden Observatory is made up of an indoor floor (40th floor) and the rooftop walkway, the Sky Walk. Because the Sky Walk is outdoors, you can really feel the sound of the wind and take in the refreshing air. Gaze out over the gentle flow of the Yodo River and you’ll spot the silhouette of Awaji Island in the distance! After circling the rooftop, head back indoors to the 40th floor for a breather. The refreshing vibe, matching the color of the sky, gives you a boost of energy for your next destination. A typical visit\u2014including getting there, sightseeing, and a caf\u00e9 break\u2014takes about 90 minutes. *The full course introduced in this article would normally cost about \u00a56,800. Next, I headed to Sky Building Tower West, which is in the same building, to visit the Kinutani Koji Tenku Museum. When you enter, you grab a pair of 3D glasses and follow the friendly staff to the Symbol Zone. Here, your journey into Kinutani\u2019s world kicks off with the breathtaking \u201cCelebration: Hiryuu Fujihoumon.\u201d It\u2019s the perfect start to an unforgettable adventure with art!<\/p>\n The 3D images projected onto the round screen\u2014about 3 meters tall and 14 meters wide\u2014truly make you feel like you\u2019re stepping right into the artwork. It\u2019s incredible!<\/p>\n The exhibition rooms are divided into two striking zones: \u201cBlue,\u201d evoking the skies of Italy where Kinutani studied, and \u201cRed,\u201d expressing a distinctly Japanese aesthetic with vermilion walls and lattice patterns. Every six months, the museum changes its theme for a fresh, special exhibition.<\/p>\n Kinutani’s colorful works, created using techniques from frescoes\u2014the classic murals\u2014always reveal something new each time I see them. His artwork naturally gives me such a \u201cpositive\u201d feeling!<\/p>\n This time, I also tried the museum\u2019s VR experience. Once I put on the headset, Koji Kinutani himself spoke directly about the magic of the Sky Museum, gently reminding me how important it is to see the artworks with your own eyes, right in front of them. You can almost feel the colors coming to life and the dynamic brushstrokes in three dimensions\u2014it\u2019s more than just an explanation; it\u2019s a true recreation of the encounter with the art. Even the thickness of the paint and the subtle \u201cbreath\u201d of the pigments, which you can\u2019t catch through a screen, become tangible, and there\u2019s a moment when your eyes and heart suddenly focus in perfect harmony.<\/p>\n Another highlight was the \u201cAtelier Introduction.\u201d The exhibit recreates the tools, layout, and lighting that Kinutani actually used, letting you sense the artist\u2019s presence. From the canvases and palettes to the arrangement of colors and the traces of test strokes on the walls, the very rhythm of creation comes alive in front of you.<\/p>\n Here, you get a sense of the time and discipline behind the artwork, which makes the viewing experience feel even deeper. It\u2019s a space where you can truly feel that Koji Kinutani\u2019s spirit has been poured into the atelier.<\/p>\n Through the VR experience, you understand the meaning of \u201cseeing,\u201d and in the atelier, you touch the place where the art is born. After experiencing both, returning to the exhibition rooms makes the same paintings look completely different\u2014the colors feel denser, and the energy flows in new ways. Definitely give it a try!<\/p>\n After your visit, you can cool down at the Sky Caf\u00e9 on the same floor. If you use the Osaka Enjoy Pass, it looks like you get a 20% discount at the caf\u00e9\u2014another great perk of the pass.<\/p>\n The caf\u00e9\u2019s interior is inspired by the museum\u2019s signature colors\u2014red, blue, and yellow. The chairs and cushions are carefully chosen Italian designs, while the tables feature a touch of traditional Japanese style.<\/p>\n There are counter seats for enjoying the afterglow alone, and table seats perfect for lively conversation. Both are comfortable, letting you quietly savor the experience you\u2019ve just had.<\/p>\n I treated myself to an Italian soda\u2014Kin Fugaku Asahi with Wind and Thunder Gods (Yuzu flavor). The menu names are playfully inspired by the title of the work, and the gentle scent of yuzu refreshes both mind and spirit. For me, the museum and taking a caf\u00e9 break took about 70\u201390 minutes.<\/p>\n And combining it with your visit to Umeda Sky Building, is a good move because it’s all within walking distance. You can visit both sites with minimal time lost in transport. I highly recommend pairing the Kuchu Teien Garden with the Koji Kinutani Sky Museum in the same day!<\/p>\n Using the Osaka e-Pass makes things even easier, since you don\u2019t have to pull out your wallet at each entrance. <\/p>\n *The full course introduced in this article would normally cost about \u00a56,800. I finished my day with dinner at \u201cMagic Soleil” a magic-themed restaurant. The atmosphere is lively and fun, perfect for both families and friends. Many of the menu items are conversation starters, so the table quickly becomes lively and fun. Top performers from all over Japan take the stage on a rotating schedule, delivering one surprise and laugh after another. I tried to figure out the tricks, but couldn’t tell how any of them were done! I couldn’t believe I did it! Pretty amazing, right? Whether you can take photos during the show or not depends on the act and where you are seated. Be sure to follow the instructions from the restaurant. The experience of having dinner and a show all in one is the perfect way to wrap up the day. *The full course introduced in this article would normally cost about \u00a56,800. I spent a moment reflecting on my day. For reference, this is how much time I spent at each destination [Umeda Sky Building Kuchu Teien: 90 minutes \/ Museum + Tenku Caf\u00e9: 70\u201390 minutes \/ Magic Soleil: around 120 minutes (dinner + show)]. The walking distance is manageable, and there are plenty of places to take a break along the way. So the plan is fun and stress-free. Osaka Kita is the kind of area where you can pack your schedule without it ever feeling rushed. The Osaka e-Pass is a convenient e-ticket that gives you free access to more than 25 popular attractions. Purchase your Osaka e-Pass\u2192<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Jonishi Rei<\/strong> X (formerly Twitter): @jonishi_rei<\/a>![\"Osaka](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-1day-en-banner.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nContents<\/h2>\n
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Umeda Sky Building Observation Deck, from the Glass Elevator to the Photogenic Escalator to the Open-air Corridor<\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img01.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nSince the new Grand Green Osaka opened, it feels like Umeda Sky Building is so much closer to JR Osaka Station and the other stations in Umeda.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img02.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nWhen you step off, a new journey awaits\u2014the famed \u201csee-through escalator\u201d that is equally as otherworldly.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img03.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nAll you have to do is show the QR code on your smartphone and you’re in!<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img04.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nThe rooftop sits 173 meters above the ground, offering a full 360-degree panoramic view.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img05.jpg\")
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img06.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nThe sparkling cityscape of Osaka, the sky\u2019s changing gradients throughout the day, the seasonal shapes of the clouds\u2026 Even though the location is always the same, there\u2019s always something new to enjoy in the scenery from the observation deck.<\/p>\n
\nYou can relax at cafe SKY 40, giving your feet a rest while enjoying the view one more time.
\nThis time, I chose the Color Pop Soda Float in blue.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img07.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nThere are counters and tables on both the river-view and city-view sides, so no matter where you sit, you can enjoy Osaka\u2019s cityscape. Here, the stunning scenery truly takes center stage.<\/p>\n
\nOne thing to keep in mind: with the Osaka e-Pass, admission is available only from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., so plan accordingly!
\nIf the weather looks iffy, you can enjoy the indoor floor first and head up to the rooftop once the wind calms down\u2014a flexible approach that\u2019s one of the Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory\u2019s strengths.<\/p>\n
\nHours: 9:30 a.m. \u2013 10:30 p.m. (Free entry with Osaka Enjoy Pass until 3:00 p.m.)
\nClosed: Open year-round
\nAdmission: \u00a52,000
\nAccess: About a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station, about a 9-minute walk from Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station, about a 9-minute walk from Osaka Metro Umeda Station
\nOfficial website:https:\/\/www.skybldg.co.jp<\/a><\/p>\n
\nWith the Osaka e-Pass \u00a52,400 + Magic Soleil special price \u00a51,000, you can enjoy it for about \u00a53,400 \u2014 almost half the cost!
\nPurchase your Osaka e-Pass\u2192<\/b><\/a>\n<\/div>\nKinutani Koji Tenku Art Museum in Umeda Sky Building\u2014An Immersive Experience in Blue and Red, Plus a Cafe<\/h2>\n
\nI took the high-speed elevator to reach the 27th floor, where an iconic sun greeted me at the reception.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img08.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img09.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img10.jpg\")
\nPetals dance to the music, a dragon seems to surge toward you, and the energy of the wind and thunder gods fills the space\u2026 it\u2019s so powerful, you can\u2019t help but feel it in your body.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img11.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img12.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img13.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img14.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img15.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nThe food is a \u201ccream puff disguised as takoyaki.\u201d It looks just like takoyaki, but once you take a bite, the creamy filling and chocolatey sweetness melt in your mouth. It\u2019s the kind of delightful surprise that makes you smile instantly.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img16.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nHours: 10:00\u202fAM\u20136:00\u202fPM; Fridays, Saturdays, and the day before holidays until 8:00\u202fPM (last admission 30 minutes before closing)
\nClosed: Tuesdays (or the following weekday if Tuesday is a holiday), December 30\u2013January 3, and during exhibition changeovers
\nAdmission: \u00a51,300
\nAccess: About a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station, 9 minutes from Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station, or 9 minutes from Osaka Metro Umeda Station
\nOfficial Website:https:\/\/www.kinutani-tenku.jp\/<\/a><\/p>\n
\nWith the Osaka e-Pass \u00a52,400 + Magic Soleil special price \u00a51,000, you can enjoy it for about \u00a53,400 \u2014 almost half the cost!
\nPurchase your Osaka e-Pass\u2192<\/b><\/a>\n<\/div>\nStep into a Magical World at Magic Soleil<\/h2>\n
\nInside, each area has its own theme, creating a whimsical, fantasy-like atmosphere filled with vibrant colors and dazzling lights!
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img17.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nAnd the menu features dishes that really enhance that resort-like vibe. I started with the visually striking \u201cOnion Ring Tower\u201d and a \u201cBIG Beer\u201d\u2014both made a big impression right away!<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img18.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nOnce your stomach and heart are full, it\u2019s finally time for the interactive magic show\u2014about an hour of pure excitement (I\u2019d been waiting for this!).<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img19.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nDuring the show, there were also interactive magic moments where the audience can join in\u2014and I got to participate.
\nI tried a \u201clifting the table\u201d trick, and the moment it actually started to move, I gasped in excitement. <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img20.jpg\")
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img21.jpg\")
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img22.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nWith tricks like quick swaps and slight-of-hand card moves one after another, the show moved at such a lively pace that I almost forgot the time.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img23.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nWhen it\u2019s allowed, snap a memorable shot to remember the experience!<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img24.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nI was still buzzing with excitement all the way home.<\/p>\n
\nShowtimes: Weekdays at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM; Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays at 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 9:00 PM (doors open one hour before each show)
\nClosed: Irregular holidays
\nAdmission: \u00a53,500
\nAccess: About a 9-minute walk from Namba Station (Osaka Metro Midosuji, Yotsubashi, and Sennichimae Lines, and Nankai), 8 minutes from Ebisucho Station (Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line), 9 minutes from Nipponbashi Station (Osaka Metro Sakaisuji and Sennichimae Lines), or 9 minutes from Kintetsu-Nippombashi Station (Kintetsu Line)
\nOfficial Website:https:\/\/magicsoleil.com\/<\/a>
\nWith the Osaka e-Pass, the \u00a53,500 admission fee drops to just \u00a51,000!
\nPlease note: each guest is required to order at least one drink and one food item.<\/p>\n
\nWith the Osaka e-Pass \u00a52,400 + Magic Soleil special price \u00a51,000, you can enjoy it for about \u00a53,400 \u2014 almost half the cost!
\nPurchase your Osaka e-Pass\u2192<\/b><\/a>\n<\/div>\n
\nMy visit to Umeda Sky Building in the afternoon felt like walking in the sky. And I got a huge sense of fulfillment from energy and color at the museum. Plus Magic Soleil was full of uplifting joy, surprise, and laughter.
\nThanks to the Osaka e-Pass, it was was quick and easy to get into each attraction. I didn\u2019t have to waste time lining up to buy tickets\u2014so I was able to fully focus on the experiences themselves.<\/p>\n
\nIn a total of about 4\u20135 hours, I had a great, well-rounded half-day plan for my time in Umeda.<\/p>\n
\nOn rainy days, you might want to switch up the order like this [Museum \u2192 Floating Garden (indoors \u2192 rooftop) \u2192 Magic Soleil].<\/p>\n
\nUsing the Osaka Enjoy Pass makes both transportation and admission smooth, and it really boosts the \u201cdensity\u201d of memorable moments.
\nOn your next day off, I hope you\u2019ll try this full-experience plan and feel the same excitement I did!<\/p>\nOsaka e-Pass<\/h2>\n
\nYou can choose between a 1-day pass (\u00a52,400) or a 2-day pass (\u00a53,000), making it easy to combine with your travel schedule.
\nIt\u2019s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy sightseeing smoothly and efficiently.<\/p>\n\u25cfProfile<\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/10\/osaka-e-pass-kita-area-img25.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\nFormerly a member of NMB48, she is now working as a model based in Osaka.
\nHer future dream is to work as a full-time model. She is currently focusing mainly on gravure (swimsuit\/lingerie\/themed) modeling.<\/p>\n
\nInstagram: @jonishi_rei<\/a>
\nTikTok\uff1a@jonishi_rei<\/a><\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/maido-storage.oss-cn-hongkong.aliyuncs.com\/maido\/uploads\/2025\/11\/osaka-e-pass-bay-area-main.jpg\")