2026 Umeda Guide: Osaka Station, Department Stores, Food & Attractions

LUCUA osaka Department Store Information

Business Hours:

• Shopping Floors (B1F-9F): 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM (some stores may vary)
• 10F LUCUA Dining: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• B2F BARCHIKA & LUCUA Food Hall: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Closed Days: Irregular closures, closed on January 1st, and some temporary closures as announced by the facility.

Highlights

LUCUA osaka is one of Japan's largest station-based commercial facilities, directly connected to JR Osaka Station, located in the North Gate Building of Osaka Station. It includes the East Building "LUCUA" and the West Building "LUCUA 1100," featuring around 500 stores offering a diverse selection of fashion, food, and lifestyle products. Its convenient transportation location and modern design attract both locals and international visitors, making it a shopping landmark in Osaka's Umeda area. LUCUA emphasizes "Lifestyle, Urban, Current, Axis," focusing on fashion and trends; while LUCUA 1100 features "Difference, Contrast, Fusion," combining unique brands with high-end lifestyles for a one-stop shopping experience. The mall offers tax-free services, and some stores support multilingual translation apps for foreign visitors. Additionally, LUCUA osaka provides accessibility features such as wheelchair rentals and priority elevators, demonstrating care for diverse needs.

Floor Guide

• B2F: BARCHIKA and LUCUA Food Hall, featuring about 30 restaurants and food stalls, offering Osaka's takoyaki, kushikatsu, and other Kansai specialties, as well as fresh ingredients and dessert markets, perfect for food lovers and souvenir shopping.
• B1F-9F: Shopping floors covering men's and women's fashion, lifestyle products, cosmetics, and bookstores. LUCUA focuses on trendy brands for young fashionistas and couples; LUCUA 1100 leans towards mature high-end brands, including Japan's only "Tom and Jerry Market" and the @cosme OSAKA flagship store, featuring around 500 beauty brands.
• 2F: TOKIMEKI MARCHE, selling desserts, cosmetics, and miscellaneous goods, ideal for souvenir shopping. An information desk is also available, providing English guidebooks and wheelchair rental services.
• 9F: A relaxation space combining a bookstore and café, perfect for unwinding after shopping.
• 10F: LUCUA Dining, featuring a variety of restaurants, from local Kansai cuisine to international dishes, catering to different tastes.

Historical Background

LUCUA osaka opened in 2011, with the East Building "LUCUA" directly operated by JR West Japan, while the West Building "LUCUA 1100" opened in 2015, operated jointly by JR West Japan and Isetan Department Store, evolving from the former Mitsukoshi Isetan due to intense competition. The opening of the mall transformed the flow of people in the Umeda area, making Osaka Station a key transport hub with shopping and cultural venues nearby. LUCUA osaka continues to introduce exclusive brands and innovative events, such as craft markets and limited product exhibitions, becoming a trendsetter in western Japan. Its modern white-themed interior and open plaza design create a bright and comfortable shopping environment, The white interior and open plaza make the mall bright and easy to browse.

Apple and Butter Strawberry Waltz LUCUA 1100 Store

Product Features

“Apple and Butter” offers a delightful range of desserts made with domestic Fuji apples and high-quality butter. The signature item, “Tart Tart” (¥1,404), sells over 6,000 units monthly, featuring cinnamon-infused stewed apples in a crispy pie crust, delivering a light and layered texture. Additionally, there are apple-shaped “Financier” (from ¥356 for 2) and “Baumkuchen” with apple jam and butter flavor (¥2,095), each bite bursting with rich fruit and warm buttery aromas.

“Strawberry Waltz” focuses on strawberry desserts, starring Fukuoka's “Amaou” strawberries, offering a variety of tempting baked goods. The star product, “Strawberry Chocolate Tart” (from ¥950 for 4), is presented in a strawberry shape, filled with double layers of strawberry and white chocolate, providing a delicate sweetness. Moreover, the strawberry cream-filled cookies (from ¥356 for 2) combine strawberries and raspberry dried fruits, achieving a wonderful balance of crispiness and slight tartness, appealing to all ages. The store also features exclusive packaging designs that are cute and exquisite, making them perfect as souvenirs or festive gifts.

Store Introduction

“Apple and Butter Strawberry Waltz LUCUA 1100 Store” is a dual-brand collaboration under the renowned Fukuoka dessert brand Fumi-an, grandly opened on February 22, 2023, as the first store in the Kansai region. Located within the LUCUA 1100 commercial facility directly connected to JR Osaka Station, it offers convenient access and spans approximately 25 square meters, creating a warm and refined atmosphere. The store combines the apple desserts of “Apple and Butter” with the strawberry desserts of “Strawberry Waltz,” both centered on high-quality local ingredients, showcasing the delicacy and creativity of Japanese sweets. The shop not only provides a variety of room-temperature and fresh desserts but also offers LUCUA 1100 store-exclusive packaging, such as gift boxes and wrapping paper featuring apple and strawberry designs, allowing customers to feel the heartfelt intention while shopping. Whether for personal enjoyment or gifting, this place meets all your dessert expectations!

Kitchen & Market LUCUA Osaka

Product Features

Kitchen & Market LUCUA Osaka is located on the 2nd floor of LUCUA osaka, directly connected to JR Osaka Station. Operated by Hankyu OASIS, it is a "grosserant" (a fusion of supermarket and restaurant) food hall that combines "shopping," "dining," and "gathering." The store offers a diverse range of products, from fresh ingredients to high-quality prepared foods, including:

• Fresh Ingredients and Imported Goods: Offers local Kansai ingredients, imported seasonings, dried goods, sake, shochu, and unique snacks and candies from various countries, catering to home cooking and gift needs.
• Premium Prepared Foods and Bento: Serves fresh sushi, grilled meat, creative salads, Italian prosciutto, and cheese, with some items available for on-site consumption in the dining area, combining convenience and flavor.
• Specialty Beverages: The "Menoteca" bar offers a variety of Italian wines at affordable prices (starting around ¥638 per glass), with all-you-can-drink options for 45 minutes at ¥1,078 or 90 minutes at ¥1,650, perfect for wine lovers.
• Barbecue Experience: The unique "Meat & Eat Square" offers bulk meat products, allowing customers to purchase and enjoy them immediately in the free barbecue area, adding interactive fun.
• Desserts and Breads: Includes stone-baked French bread, specialty rum raisin sandwiches, and seasonal fruit smoothies and desserts, satisfying sweet tooth cravings.

Store Introduction

Kitchen & Market LUCUA Osaka is located within the "LUCUA FOOD HALL" of LUCUA osaka, creating a stylish atmosphere reminiscent of a European market. It is not just a supermarket but a complex space that combines dining and socializing, suitable for solo dining, family gatherings, or casual drinks with friends. The store features over 100 seats in the dining area, where customers can enjoy their purchased prepared foods and drinks, easily creating a personalized dining experience. You can buy ingredients, prepared food, or drinks and eat them here. It is also a practical stop when looking for Umeda underground food. The store also regularly hosts local ingredient exhibitions, such as Hokkaido product fairs, adding to the shopping enjoyment.

Jojoen LUCUA Osaka

Restaurant Features

Jojoen LUCUA Osaka, located on the 10th floor of LUCUA Osaka directly connected to Osaka Station, offers a high-quality yakiniku experience with the philosophy of "Quality ingredients, deliciousness is the best service." The restaurant is known for its carefully selected premium ingredients, with meats strictly chosen by skilled professionals to ensure tenderness and rich flavor. Signature dishes include selected roast beef, premium beef tongue, and premium harami, paired with Jojoen's exclusive secret sauce for an unforgettable taste. Additionally, the Jojoen salad, dressed with a special sauce, is refreshing and popular among customers. The restaurant features an elegant and spacious environment with table seating and private rooms, making it suitable for business dinners, family gatherings, or romantic dates. The attentive service embodies the spirit of Japanese hospitality, ensuring every guest feels at home. Whether for a relaxed meal after shopping or sharing special moments with friends and family, Jojoen provides a feast that satisfies all the senses.

Grand Front Osaka Basic Information

Phone: 06-6372-6300 (Grand Front Osaka Call Center, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM)

Features

Grand Front Osaka is located in the Umeda area of Kita Ward, Osaka City, and is the centerpiece of the "Umekita" redevelopment project north of Osaka Station, which opened on April 26, 2013. This complex commercial facility embodies the concept of "Creating the Future, Connecting People," integrating shopping, dining, cultural experiences, and business functions, attracting visitors from around the world and local residents. The mall centers around the South Building, North Building, and Umekita Plaza, featuring approximately 260 stores, including fashion brands, home goods, specialty restaurants, and cafes, with 73 stores being the first in the Kinki region and 97 being flagship stores in Western Japan or Kinki, showcasing its unique commercial charm. The "Knowledge Capital" within the facility provides a platform for creative and knowledge exchange, regularly hosting exhibitions and events to inspire creativity and innovation. Additionally, the surrounding green spaces and tree-lined walkways allow visitors to experience nature in the metropolis, perfectly blending urban and recreational atmospheres.

Floor Guide

South Building: The South Building focuses on fashion and lifestyle, with floors 1 to 6 featuring international brands and Japanese designer brands like UNIQLO and GU, as well as large bookstores and general merchandise stores. Floors 7 to 9 are dedicated to dining, offering a variety of options from upscale restaurants to casual cafes, such as "World Beer Museum" and "Dancing Club," perfect for food lovers.

North Building: The North Building is characterized by high-end lifestyle and knowledge exchange, with floors 2 to 4 housing brands like Ray-Ban and MUJI, as well as exhibition spaces in "Knowledge Capital" showcasing technology and creative achievements. The 5th floor features HDC Osaka (Housing Design Center), providing home inspiration for visitors seeking high-quality living.

Umekita Plaza: This open space at the heart of the mall hosts seasonal events, such as "MUSIC BUSKER IN UMEKITA" music performances and "ART SCRAMBLE" art exhibitions, offering cultural and entertainment experiences for visitors. The surrounding zelkova and ginkgo tree-lined paths enhance the natural atmosphere, ideal for walking and relaxation.

Historical Background

Grand Front Osaka is located on the site of the former Japan Freight Railway (JR Freight) Umeda Freight Station and is the first phase of the "Umekita" redevelopment project, covering approximately 7 hectares and hailed as "Osaka's last golden location." Since its opening in 2013, the mall has become one of the main shopping and dining complexes in the Umeda area. Celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2023, Grand Front Osaka has launched a new vision, "Let's Create Together," emphasizing the potential for co-creating the future with visitors. The "Knowledge Capital" within the facility focuses on knowledge and creativity, attracting global companies and creators, becoming an important window for showcasing Osaka's innovative capabilities.

Gariguette Osaka Restaurant Information

Restaurant Features

Located in the bustling area in front of Osaka Station, "Gariguette Osaka" is a specialty dessert café focused on traditional French pastry "Mille-Feuille," redefining this classic dessert with a new concept called "Milpresse." The café offers freshly baked mille-feuille made with 100% fermented butter pastry, baked at high temperatures for a short time using a special press, resulting in an unparalleled crisp texture and rich buttery aroma. Customers can enjoy watching the preparation process in the open kitchen, adding to the dining experience.

The signature dessert "Napoleon" (¥1,200) features fresh strawberries paired with rich custard, perfectly balancing sweet and tart flavors. Additionally, seasonal flavors like "Printemps Japonais" (¥1,350) incorporate cherry blossom aroma and Nishio matcha for a Japanese touch. Besides desserts, the café also offers savory mille-feuille options such as "Jambon & Fromage" (ham and cheese) and "Saumon Fumé & Avocat" (smoked salmon and avocado) to satisfy various taste preferences. The café has 35 seats (15 indoors, 20 on the terrace) in an elegant environment, perfect for leisurely enjoying dessert time. However, be aware that there is often a queue outside, so it's advisable to avoid peak hours.

Grand Green Osaka - A New Green Landmark in Umeda, Osaka

Features

Grand Green Osaka, located in the "Umekita Phase 2 Area" in front of Osaka Station, is a mixed-use commercial landmark that combines shopping facilities, hotels, office buildings, and a vast urban park. Its core concept, "Osaka MIDORI LIFE," emphasizes the integration of "greenery" and "innovation," creating an urban space where people coexist harmoniously with nature. The mall, themed "OSAMPO with Green," offers a leisurely shopping and dining experience, allowing visitors to enjoy shopping and culinary delights in a lush environment. The mall consists of the North Building, South Building, and park facilities, totaling 74 stores (19 in the North Building and park, 55 in the South Building), featuring a diverse range of fashion, food, lifestyle products, and health options, attracting both locals and tourists to explore.

Floor Guide

• • North Building 1st Floor: Focused on plants and outdoor living, featuring "KEEPGREEN OSAKA" (plant specialty store), "Patagonia Osaka Umeda" (outdoor apparel and food), "paw's living" (pet supplies), and "ISLAND STYLE CAFE & GRILL Koko Head cafe OSAKA" (Hawaiian cuisine and steakhouse), ideal for nature and leisure enthusiasts.

• • North Building 2nd Floor: Centered on food and culture, featuring "Tako no Tetsu" (takoyaki and okonomiyaki), "CRAFT BEER BASE leaf" (craft beer bar), "A dining ～Asian Restaurant" (Muslim-friendly Asian cuisine), and "Yurindo" (bookstore and stationery), offering a variety of dining and cultural experiences.

• • South Building B1 Floor: Focused on food, featuring "TOM CAT BAKERY" (Kansai's first store, bakery and café), "BIO-RAL" (natural supermarket and café), "Sushi and Tempura Tsurumatsu Shin" (seafood cuisine), and "Shichiwairo" (robata grill and yakitori), providing a rich selection of dining options.

• • South Building 1st Floor (GRAND CHEFS’ VALLEY): A hidden restaurant hub featuring upscale dining and specialty cuisine, perfect for those seeking a refined dining experience.

• • South Building 3rd Floor (UMEKITA GRAND TABLES): An upscale dining area featuring "Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse" (fine dining steakhouse) and more, suitable for business banquets or romantic meals, offering excellent views of Umekita Park.

• • Park Facilities: Located within Umekita Park, "MIRRORGE OSAKA" offers unique dining and event spaces, while "THE JACKSON GARDEN" provides afternoon tea and gourmet food, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere of outdoor dining.

Historical Background

Grand Green Osaka is situated on the site of the former Umeda Freight Station, north of Osaka Station, known as "the last golden area in Kansai." Since 2013, the Umekita project has gradually transformed the landscape of Umeda, starting with "Grand Front Osaka." As the core of the Umekita Phase 2 project, Grand Green Osaka was officially named in February 2023, symbolizing "a vast space full of greenery," aiming to attract a diverse crowd and create a new urban lifestyle. The North Building and parts of Umekita Park opened on September 6, 2024, while the South Building is set to fully open on March 21, 2025, with the entire area development expected to be completed by spring 2027. The project is jointly promoted by nine companies, including Mitsubishi Estate, combining architectural design by Nikken Sekkei and landscape design by GGN to create an innovative concept of "city built within a park."

Makino

Restaurant Features

"Makino" is a cozy soba noodle shop with a warm wooden ambiance, allowing you to enjoy your time leisurely with a glass of sake in a tranquil setting, making it popular for solo diners as well.
The signature dish is "Juwari Soba," made from homemade buckwheat flour ground from buckwheat seeds, offering a crisp texture and a chewy bite. The "Ebi Tempura Soba," made with natural shrimp, is a favorite among regulars during lunch. Dinner showcases the traditional drinking culture of soba shops, where you can start with a variety of side dishes (ate) paired with carefully selected sake (about 10 types available), and finish with flavorful soba noodles for a perfect ending.
Two types of soba are offered: the elegant and smooth "Seiro Soba" (white) and the aromatic and hearty "Denshok Soba" (black), with many foodies opting for the "Two Types Seiro" to compare the flavors. Please note that reservations are not accepted during lunch, and it is recommended to book between 18:00 and 18:30 for dinner to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

Patagonia Osaka Umeda Store Information

Closed: New Year's holidays, third Wednesday of each month

Phone Number: 06-6445-9770

Product Features

Patagonia Osaka Umeda offers a wide range of products catering to outdoor sports and everyday needs. The store features technical clothing and gear for activities like rock climbing, mountaineering, trail running, and fly fishing, as well as high-quality lifestyle apparel suitable for business, travel, and daily wear. Additionally, there is a clothing line designed for children and infants, along with food and beer from the "Patagonia Provisions" brand, emphasizing environmental friendliness through regenerative agriculture and sustainable sourcing, showcasing the brand's commitment to protecting the planet. Notably, the store includes Japan's first permanent "Worn Wear" section for second-hand Patagonia products, cleaned and repaired, priced at about 40% of the original price, promoting sustainable consumption.

Store Introduction

Patagonia Osaka Umeda grandly opened on September 6, 2024, as Patagonia's 24th direct store in Japan and the flagship store in Western Japan. Located on the first floor of the "Grand Green Osaka" commercial facility, directly accessible from Osaka Station, the store covers approximately 383 square meters (about 116 tsubo), making it the largest single-level Patagonia store in Japan. The store features an open space design with warm wooden interiors, creating a natural and comfortable atmosphere. Large glass windows at the front allow passersby to easily view the displays inside, attracting both new and returning customers to explore. The store not only showcases brand products but also includes a special exhibition area and audio-visual space, regularly hosting environmental protection-themed events and repair workshops, conveying Patagonia's core philosophy that "the Earth is our home." The store also features a vintage wooden counter and display tables from the Shinsaibashi store, continuing the brand's 26-year history in Osaka, blending tradition and innovation to provide customers with a unique brand experience.

Umeda Sky Building

Umeda Sky Building is an iconic structure located in Kita Ward, Osaka, known for its unique twin-tower design and sky garden observatory. It is a must-visit attraction in the city, offering breathtaking views and a blend of nature and modern urban beauty that draws countless visitors to experience its magnificent scenery and cultural charm.

• Ticket Prices:
  • Adults: ¥2,000 (Discounted: ¥1,000)
  • Ages 4 to elementary school students: ¥500 (Discounted: ¥250)
  • Combined ticket for Sky Garden Observatory and Koji Kinutani Tenku Art Museum: ¥2,500 (KKday discount price approximately ¥1,800)

Attraction Overview

Umeda Sky Building consists of two 40-story towers, Tower East and Tower West, connected by a sky garden observatory at the top, reaching a total height of about 173 meters, making it the fifteenth tallest building in Osaka. Its unique design, inspired by the concept of a "sky city," was created by architect Hiroshi Hara, aiming to establish a modern landmark that integrates with the Osaka skyline. The sky garden observatory spans the 39th and 40th floors and the rooftop, where visitors can take transparent elevators and experience the thrill of floating in the air. The indoor observatory on the 40th floor features a 35-meter-long glass counter, complemented by "cafe SKY 40," offering specialty drinks and desserts like the Umeda Sky Building-shaped waffles, allowing guests to enjoy leisurely moments while taking in the views. The rooftop "Lumi Sky Walk" is known for its 360-degree open space, adorned with glowing stones at night, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples or family outings. Additionally, the building houses the Koji Kinutani Tenku Art Museum, a cinema, and the restaurant street "Takimi Koji," combining cultural, culinary, and shopping experiences.

Historical Background

Umeda Sky Building was conceived in 1988, with construction starting in June 1990 and completed in March 1993. Developed by Sekisui House in collaboration with Daihatsu Diesel (now Daihatsu Industries) and Toshiba, the latter two became landowners due to historical ties. Architect Hiroshi Hara's design was inspired by the "sky city" concept, partly influenced by the Grande Arche in Paris, aiming to create a modern landmark. In 2008, Umeda Sky Building was selected by British media as one of the "Top 20 Buildings in the World" for its unique shape and architectural aesthetics, alongside the Taj Mahal and Sagrada Familia. In 2013, Sekisui House proposed a greening plan called "Wall of Hope" designed by architect Tadao Ando, but discussions arose over copyright issues raised by landscape designer Motoharu Yoshimura. Although the plan was ultimately not hindered, it reflected the challenges and explorations of integrating architecture with nature.

Cultural Significance

Umeda Sky Building is not just a modern structure; it embodies Japan's cultural philosophy of "coexistence of nature and urban life." The surrounding "Shin Umeda City" is designed based on "feng shui" principles, incorporating the planning philosophies of ancient capitals like Heijo-kyo and Heian-kyo. Through public spaces like "Wonder Square" and green areas such as "Naka Shizen no Mori" and "Hana no no ~ New Satoyama ~," it fosters a harmonious coexistence of nature and the city. The central circular opening in the sky garden observatory, with a diameter of 30 meters, symbolizes the flow of "vitality," echoing Japan's traditional respect for space and natural energy. Additionally, the "Takimi Koji" restaurant street within the building recreates retro streetscapes from the Showa era, evoking nostalgia from Japan's post-war economic growth period, allowing visitors to feel the warmth of history within a modern architectural setting. Umeda Sky Building thus serves as a cultural landmark connecting Osaka's past and future, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its unique architectural beauty and cultural depth.

Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory

Ticket Prices: Adults (middle school and above) ¥2,000; Ages 4 to elementary school ¥500; Free for under 4. Half price for holders of the bereaved person's handbook and their companions (equal number), must show ID at the 39th-floor counter.

Attraction Introduction

The Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory, located in "Shin Umeda City" in Kita Ward, Osaka, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Designed by Japanese architect Hiroshi Hara, this 40-story skyscraper was completed in 1993 and is renowned for its unique twin-tower design, earning recognition as one of the "Top 20 World Buildings" by a British publisher. The observatory spans the 39th and 40th floors and the rooftop, standing 173 meters high, offering a 360-degree panoramic view that includes the city of Osaka, the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, Awaji Island, Mount Rokko, and the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. Visitors can enjoy the bustling cityscape during the day and the romantic night view at night, attracting countless tourists and couples.

Enter from the 3rd-floor entrance and take a transparent elevator directly to the 35th floor, then ascend via the thrilling transparent escalator to the 39th floor, as if embarking on a journey to the sky. The indoor observatory on the 40th floor features a 35-meter-long glass corridor, complemented by "cafe SKY 40," which offers exclusive coffee and specialty desserts, allowing visitors to savor delicious treats while enjoying a romantic atmosphere high above the ground. The rooftop "Lumi Sky Walk" features an open design, allowing guests to bask in the breeze, while the glow-in-the-dark stone pathway at night sparkles like a starry sky, enhancing the dreamlike experience. Additionally, the observatory offers the "Heart Lock" activity, where visitors can purchase colorful heart-shaped locks and engrave their names, hanging them on the "Oath Fence" as a symbol of romantic love.

Historical Background

The Umeda Sky Building was constructed under the leadership of Sekisui House, completing in March 1993, with the aim of creating a central landmark for Osaka's new urban center. Architect Hiroshi Hara's design concept of "Floating Garden Fantasy" merges ancient and modern architectural philosophies, resulting in this futuristic structure that connects twin towers. Its unique "Lift-Up Method" became a highlight during construction, with the upper sections assembled on the ground and then lifted to the top, showcasing the pinnacle of Japanese architectural technology. The Floating Garden Observatory is not only a viewing spot but also embodies Osaka's ambition as an international city, attracting architecture enthusiasts from around the world.

Showa Retro Shopping Street Takimi Koji

Store Introduction

Showa Retro Shopping Street Takimi Koji is located on the B1 floor of the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, featuring a unique dining street that recreates the atmosphere of downtown Osaka during the Showa era. Walking into this stone-paved alley feels like traveling back to the 1950s, with retro street designs evoking a strong sense of nostalgia. Named "Takimi Koji" after the column waterfall in the natural forest, this shopping street combines modern architecture with nostalgic sentiment, creating a unique dining and strolling experience. The street hosts about 20 dining establishments, offering Osaka specialties such as kushikatsu, takoyaki, and yakiniku, as well as Western food, izakayas, and cafes, providing a diverse range of culinary options that perfectly embody Osaka's charm as the "City of Gastronomy."

Product Features

Takimi Koji focuses on dining, gathering classic Osaka delicacies and Showa-style restaurants. One of the most famous establishments is "Okonomiyaki Kiji," a long-established restaurant known for its authentic takoyaki and okonomiyaki since the Osaka Expo era, attracting countless food lovers. In addition to traditional Osaka cuisine, the street also features shops offering yakiniku, Western food, izakaya dishes, and specialty coffee to satisfy various tastes. Furthermore, the shopping street sells some Showa-themed souvenirs and snacks, allowing visitors to take home a piece of nostalgia while enjoying the food. Seasonal events like the Tanabata bamboo boat lanterns, summer firefly releases, and winter Christmas decorations add to the festive atmosphere, providing visitors with unique experiences alongside their dining.

Umekita Green Place

Features

Umekita Green Place is a prime location directly connected to Osaka Station (Umeda area), themed around "greenery" and "interaction." The facility focuses on a green environment, combining natural light and a comfortable breeze to create a vibrant relaxation space. The plaza features a lush outdoor area and incorporates the art display project "WARP," offering visitors both visual and spiritual enjoyment. The mall hosts 20 shops primarily focused on dining, including cafes, dessert shops, and specialty restaurants, catering to a range of needs from quick meals to leisurely afternoon teas. Additionally, convenient takeout services are available, perfect for a relaxed outdoor dining experience at nearby Umeda Park. The facility also introduces Japan's first "AI Mixed Time Prediction Service," using real-time data analysis to help customers avoid peak hours, enhancing dining efficiency and comfort.

Floor Guide

• 1st Floor: Directly connected to the ground exit of Osaka Station (Umeda area), designed for travelers and office workers with quick needs, featuring retail shops and takeout dessert stores like "Le Pinois" and "Yorky’s Creperie / Peace of Bake," offering fresh fruit crepes and Hokkaido cream donuts, ideal for park visitors or commuters looking for quick snacks or desserts. Convenient locker services are also available.
• 2nd Floor: Connected to Osaka Station and the south building of "Grand Green Osaka" via a pedestrian bridge, featuring an urban dining area that includes "Maruya Honten" Osaka Umeda Green Place branch, serving Nagoya-style eel rice, and the British-style "THE PUBLIC PLUM" bar, combining sports viewing with dining experiences. The dining area utilizes AI technology to predict crowded times, helping customers choose the best dining times.
• 3rd Floor: The top floor features the "Oyster & Italian Sky" restaurant, offering a 180-degree panoramic view overlooking Umeda Park, specializing in fresh oysters and Italian cuisine, complemented by an open terrace for customers to enjoy a luxurious dining experience in the city. Perfect for business lunches or romantic dinners.

Historical Background

Umekita Green Place is an important part of "Grand Green Osaka" (originally the Umeda Phase 2 development project), located in the redevelopment area west of Osaka Station that was previously a freight yard. This project is jointly promoted by JR West Japan, JR West Japan Real Estate Development, and JR West Japan Osaka Development, aiming to transform the west side of Osaka Station into an urban landmark that integrates "greenery and innovation." Since the opening of the underground and west exits of Osaka Station in March 2023, facilities such as "JP Tower Osaka" (July 2024) and "Innogate Osaka" (July 2024) have been completed, with Umekita Green Place partially opening its front plaza in December 2024 and fully opening on March 21, 2025. The facility is seamlessly connected to Umeda Park and surrounding buildings via pedestrian bridges, enhancing regional mobility and providing transportation and commercial support for the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo, such as a large bus parking lot at the front plaza for expo shuttle buses. The design concept of the plaza stems from the pursuit of balance between nature and urban life, continuing the cultural and innovative traditions of the west side of Osaka Station through the "WARP" art project.

Inogate Osaka - A New Landmark at Osaka Station

Features

Inogate Osaka is a new comprehensive commercial building directly above the west side of JR Osaka Station, connected to the west ticket gate, set to grandly open on July 31, 2024. Its name combines the concepts of "Innovate" and "Gate," symbolizing a portal for welcoming innovative ideas and new business opportunities. As the core project of the redevelopment plan on the west side of Osaka Station, this 23-story building above ground and 1 basement level, standing approximately 120 meters tall, not only serves as a convenient transportation hub but also integrates office, dining, and commercial spaces, becoming a new landmark in Osaka. Inogate Osaka is linked to nearby "JP Tower Osaka," "Grand Green Osaka," and "Kitamon Building" through connecting passages and pedestrian bridges, creating a convenient urban living circle that meets the diverse needs of business people and tourists.

Floor Guide

• 1st Floor - Water Path (水の路): The entrance features a public art installation "The Fountain Boy" created by renowned manga artist Hirohiko Araki, inspired by the historical fountain imagery of Osaka Station, adding a cultural touch. It also provides a convenient passage to the west ticket gate, connecting JR Osaka Station and surrounding facilities.
• 2nd to 5th Floors - Dining Area "Balchika 03": Home to about 50 dining establishments, featuring Osaka's famous old shops, street food, and internationally renowned restaurants, catering to diverse needs from breakfast to late-night gatherings.
  • 2nd Floor: Cafés for quick meals (like Sarutahiko Coffee) and light meal spots (like Fermented Manma), ideal for office workers and travelers.
  • 3rd Floor: Offers all-day dining options, including international cuisine like the famous Spanish paella from Barcelona's "Chiringuito Escribà."
  • 4th Floor: Focuses on local Osaka favorites and affordable eats, such as the signature pork cutlet rice from "Sarushokudo" and the special fried noodles from "Meiran," perfect for lunch and casual gatherings.
  • 5th Floor: Designed for evening gatherings, featuring popular izakayas and high-demand restaurants like "Isshiki Santori" and "Hakata Kushiyaki Batten Yokato," ideal for unwinding after work.
• 6th Floor - TSUTAYA BOOKSTORE and Starbucks: Operated by Tsutaya, "TSUTAYA BOOKSTORE Inogate Osaka" combines a bookstore, café, and shared workspace, providing a comfortable environment for reading and working, suitable for business people and literary enthusiasts.
• 9th to 22nd Floors - Office Area: Offers flexible office spaces, including shared offices and meeting rooms from Compass Offices, catering to startups, foreign companies, and professionals. The 11th floor "Meeting Space AP" is equipped with advanced audio and video facilities, suitable for meetings, seminars, and events, boasting excellent views of Umeda Park.

Historical Background

The area on the west side of JR Osaka Station, where Inogate Osaka is located, has been a hub of commerce and transportation in Osaka since the station's establishment in 1874. With the passage of time, Osaka Station has undergone continuous expansion and renovation, becoming the largest terminal station in western Japan. In spring 2023, with the opening of Umeda Underground Station and the new west ticket gate, Inogate Osaka became the core project of the redevelopment plan on the west side of Osaka Station, aiming to continue the 150-year historical legacy of Osaka Station while creating a new chapter for future business and culture. This building not only represents a physical commercial space but also embodies Osaka's innovative spirit as a commercial capital, resonating with the upcoming 2025 Osaka Kansai Expo, becoming a symbolic landmark connecting the past and the future.

THE FOUNTAIN BOY | Fountain Boy Exhibition Information

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Exhibition Overview

“THE FOUNTAIN BOY | Fountain Boy” is the first public art piece created by renowned Japanese manga artist Hirohiko Araki, set to be displayed from July 31, 2024, at the 1st floor "Waterway" of the new station building "InnoGate Osaka," directly connected to the west exit of JR Osaka Station. This approximately 2-meter diameter spherical colored glass work is inspired by the iconic sculpture "Fountain Boy" in the history of Osaka Station, blending elements of the "Stand" from Araki's famous work "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure," creating an artistic masterpiece that combines tradition and modernity, local memory and international influence. The piece, themed around the natural phenomenon of water circulation, features seven Stands arranged in "order of strength," symbolizing the fusion of nature and human spirit, attracting countless tourists and manga fans, becoming a new landmark at Osaka Station and a popular meeting spot.

Historical Background

The "Fountain Boy" was originally installed in 1901 on both sides of the main entrance driveway of the second-generation Osaka Station building, consisting of two bronze statues, one holding a lotus-shaped basin and the other holding a dragon-shaped water bottle, symbolizing the cycle of water and life. These statues became a symbol of Osaka Station during Japan's post-war recovery period, providing spiritual comfort and a sign of waiting for travelers. In 1963, the Fountain Boy was designated as a quasi-railway monument, accompanying the people of Osaka for over a century. However, with the reconstruction of the fourth-generation station building in 2004, the statues were removed, with one currently at the Kyoto Railway Museum and the other missing. In 2024, Hirohiko Araki was commissioned by JR West Japan to participate in the "WARP (WEST ART PROJECT)" to recreate the "Fountain Boy" in a new colored glass form, evoking historical memories of Osaka while infusing modern artistic vibes into the city.

Cultural Significance

In "THE FOUNTAIN BOY," Hirohiko Araki integrates the "Stands" symbolizing natural forces from "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure" into the work, selecting seven Stands from different chapters (including "November Rain" from "The JOJOLands" and "Star Platinum" from "Stardust Crusaders"), arranged by "strength," showcasing the harmony and conflict between humanity and nature. The spherical design represents the Earth and infinite cycles, while the vibrant colors and light effects of the stained glass add a sacred and healing atmosphere to the busy station. At the unveiling ceremony, Hirohiko Araki expressed hope that this work would bring "healing, hope, and good luck" to passersby, making it a new cultural landmark in Osaka, continuing the tradition of the "Fountain Boy" as a symbol of waiting and gathering.