The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is an iconic feature of Osaka’s skyline, providing panoramic vistas of the city and Osaka Bay. Standing at 112.5 meters high, it offers a unique perspective of the urban landscape, especially when illuminated at night.
Constructed on July 12, 1997, the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, also known as “Tempozan Ferris Wheel” or “Tempozan Great Wheel,” has become one of Osaka’s most recognized landmarks. It was one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world at the time of its opening. Although it has since been surpassed in height, it remains a significant attraction in the bustling port city of Osaka.
The wheel’s impressive stature, with a diameter of 100 meters, allows for sweeping views over a city that blends history with modernity. From its highest point, visitors can see Osaka Bay, the Rokko mountains, Mount Ikoma, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and even the distant Kansai International Airport. With 60 gondolas, including a special gondola with a transparent floor, the Ferris wheel provides a 15-minute experience above the city. The transparent cabins offer a unique view straight down to the ground, adding an extra element of excitement.
At night, the wheel becomes an illuminated spectacle, with colored lights that display the weather forecast for the following day: orange for sunny weather, green for clouds, and blue for rain.
Located in Tempozan Harbor Village, the Ferris wheel is part of a larger entertainment complex that includes the renowned Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and the Tempozan Marketplace. This waterfront district is a lively hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, attracting both locals and tourists.
The special gondola with a glass floor is particularly popular, so there may be a wait. Wheelchair-accessible cabins and in-cabin announcements in both Japanese and English make the Ferris wheel welcoming to a diverse audience.
The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel provides a memorable perspective of Osaka, captivating visitors with its significant size and the experiences it offers.
Updated 13 Mar 2024 • Report an error
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