Osaka Station

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Facts & Figures

Osaka Station is the biggest train hub in Osaka, the busiest station in western Japan, and the fourth-busiest railway station in the world—approximately 2.3 million people use this station daily. Osaka Station is served by many local and interregional trains. Be aware that Shinkansen trains will not stop here. Shinkansen trains are served by the Shin-Osaka Station, 3km away. The whole area offers plenty of department stores, hotels, and entertainment facilities. Enjoy the view from the Toki-no-Hiroba Plaza, which spans over the railway tracks. The plaza is covered by a gigantic glass and steel roof, which is an architectural masterpiece designed by Mitohka Eiji. Toki-no-Hiroba Plaza (Time and Space Plaza) connects the North and South Gate Buildings of Osaka Station. These two buildings form the so-called Osaka Station City.

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History

The Osaka Station was built in 1874. It was one of the first railway stations within the Kansai region and the primary transportation hub in Osaka. The whole area was damaged during the air raids in WW2. The station underwent reconstruction work in 1901, 1940, and 1979. The huge glass and steel roof and the new North Gate Building were added to the complex in 2011.

Sightseeing spots of the Osaka Station City

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North Gate Building - The building opened its doors to the public in 2011. It has 28 stories and you will find there the Lucua and Isetan department stores, a movie theatre, offices, Konami Sports Club, and many garden plazas like Kaze-no-Hiroba and Yawaragi-no-Niwa with amazing views over the city.

Kaze-no-Hiroba Plaza (garden of the wind) - This open space with flowers, benches, and a small water place is located on the 11th floor of the North Gate Building. Take a break there and enjoy the view. The plaza is open from 7:00 am until 12:00 pm.

Yawaragi-no-Niwa Garden (peaceful garden) - It is a beautiful terrace located on the 10th floor of the North Gate Building. It features a traditional Japanese-style garden. Come here to enjoy the amazing view over the northern part of Osaka. The garden is open from 7:00 am until 11:00 pm.

Osaka Station City Cinema - The movie theatre is located on the 11th floor and offers 2564 seats, 12 screens, and barrier-free access. The cinema is open from 9:00 am until 11:00 pm.

Tenku-no-Noen Farm (sky farm) - The small farm is located on the 14th floor. There is a chance for you to harvest different fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

South Gate Building - The biggest part of the building with 29 stories is occupied by the Daimaru department store and the Hotel Granvia. It was built in 1983.

Taiyo-no-Hiroba Plaza (plaza of the sun) - These terraces within the South Gate Building stretch from the 15th to the 17th floor. You will find there flowers, trees, benches, a beer garden, and a cafe. The terraces are open from 10:00 am until 11:00 pm.

Daimaru Department Store - The shopping paradise in the South Gate Building is open from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm.

Toki-no-Hiroba Plaza (Time and Space Plaza) - This bridge/plaza is located on the 5th floor of Osaka Station City. It connects the North and South Gate buildings. You will find there the famous golden and silver clocks, which are a popular meeting point within the station.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

July

Tenjin Matsuri Festival (24th till 25th)
Osaka’s greatest traditional festival (over 1000 years old) and ranked as one of the top 3 festivals in Japan. Enjoy spectacular processions on land and in the water, great fireworks, and a unique atmosphere created by the traditional costumes and music. My must-see recommendation for you.

November/December

Osaka German Christmas Market (18th Nov. till 25th Dec.)
Enjoy this unique event at the Umeda Sky Building. It offers specialties from Germany and you have to try out one Glühwein:)