In the colorful town of Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku Tower stands tall as Osaka’s most iconic tower, much like Tokyo Tower is to Tokyo.
A town filled with wacky artwork, pop-out adverts, and a whole bunch of colors, Shinsekai truly has a “no filter” vibe. In the center of all the mayhem is the Tsutenkaku Tower or “Tower Reaching Heaven.” Indeed, this iconic tower can be spotted from anywhere in Shinsekai, watching over the people like a guardian. More than just a pretty landmark, Tsutenkaku Tower has a rich interior that is worth visiting!
Glico Store
Perhaps the first thing you’ll see when you enter Tsutenkaku Tower is the Glico store, one of Japan’s biggest confectionery brands.
Selling all your favorite Glico products, from Pocky to Japanese candy, chocolates, and cool souvenirs, is a pretty neat place to browse.
We’ve all seen the famous Glico Man in Dotonbori. Well, here, you can buy tons of souvenirs featuring that iconic running man, from take-home figurines to exclusive packaged confectionaries.
Observatory Room
The observatory room on the top floor is an interesting one. For some reason there are cardboard cutouts of anime characters by the windows, adding a certain charm to the experience.
As far as the views go, they are absolutely magnificent with panoramic views of Shinsekai and the greater Osaka area, stretching out to the mountains.
Cool Exhibits
Tsutenkaku Tower is full of interesting exhibits such as this model depicting some time in human history (probably 19th Century Osaka).
In many ways, the tower is much like a museum on the inside, with a heavy influence of Glico (for whatever reason).
My guess is the company was a major shareholder of Tsutenkaku Tower’s early development and is thus getting some well-earned recognition.
In any case, the next time you’re in Osaka, why not head down to Shinsekai and check out this amazing tower that truly reaches the heavens?
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