Unforgettable Osaka: Harukas 300 Observatory Guide & Tips

Photos & Text by Dochi Nunna

ⓒ 2026. dochi_nunna. All rights reserved

Scrolling through cherry blossom photos got me dreaming of Japan again...

That's right, I'm currently obsessed with a Japan trip!

While Dochi and I were planning a trip to China earlier this year in March, I've decided to push my Japan adventure to the warmer months of April or May. For now, I'll soothe my wanderlust by sharing some incredible insights!

Despite visiting Japan 5-6 times a year, my first Osaka trip was actually just last year! 💙

My solo journey through Osaka was particularly memorable, and I realized I haven't really delved into the specific spots and itineraries I enjoyed.

So, I thought it was high time to share a detailed record of my Osaka travel course, broken down by location.

Today, I'm diving into the **Harukas 300 Observatory**, a spot I highly recommend for anyone visiting Osaka.

Make sure to add it to your Osaka travel itinerary! 🎶

Top Osaka Observatories Recommended

As you plan your Osaka travel itinerary, you'll quickly discover there are several observatories to choose from.

The big question always is: **Which one should I visit...?**

Osaka boasts three main observatories:

**Umeda Sky Building**

**Tsutenkaku Tower**

And, of course, **Harukas 300**

Since I was traveling solo, my Osaka itinerary was surprisingly flexible, allowing me to visit all three. However, most travelers often combine Osaka with nearby cities like Kyoto, making it tough to squeeze in all three observatories.

In such cases, I recommend **choosing your battles wisely**, and my top recommendation is always **Harukas 300**.

Harukas 300, a 60-story observatory, was once Japan's tallest building when it opened in 2014.

While it no longer holds the top spot, this super-tall building in the Kansai region still offers breathtaking views. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Kyoto, making it an absolute must-visit in Osaka!

If you have a bit more time, or if your hotel is conveniently located near Umeda Station like mine was, I'd also recommend adding the Umeda Sky Building to your list.

And if you're keen on attractions or traveling with kids, **Tsutenkaku Tower** offers a thrilling slide that makes for a great alternative option.

I'll be sharing detailed reviews of the other two observatories soon!

Harukas 300 Observatory in Osaka, Japan

Harukas 300 Observatory, a highlight of my recommended Osaka itinerary, is conveniently located at Tennoji Station.

The station and the building are directly connected, making access incredibly easy...

...or so they say! **I actually got lost trying to find it... seriously, how did that happen? lol** I still wonder which exit I took to end up so disoriented!

Anyway, I eventually managed to find the dedicated elevator to Harukas 300 on the first basement floor.

From there, I took the elevator straight up to the 16th floor!

Tickets & Pricing

As you'd expect for such a popular observatory, purchasing an admission ticket is essential. While you can buy tickets on-site, I highly recommend booking in advance through an online platform.

The primary reason is that it's often **cheaper** than buying tickets at the venue.

Especially, at the time of my visit, Trip.com was offering a special discount, making it almost **~$4 cheaper** than buying on-site. So, make sure to plan ahead and save some cash!

+TIP

If you're planning to visit other cities like Kyoto or Kobe in addition to Osaka, I highly recommend purchasing the Kansai Joy Pass.

With the Kansai Joy Pass, you can choose 3 or 6 popular attractions and restaurants from over 200 options for free entry. This can significantly reduce your expenses compared to buying individual admission tickets for each spot.

Click here for more details on available attractions!

The Kansai Joy Pass is also available on various platforms. As of my research, Trip.com often has the best deals, so I recommend checking there first and choosing the option that best fits your travel plans.

*Note: Trip.com tickets previously offered a special rate valid until March 31, 2026. Always check current deals!

*Klook's pass often includes the Haruka Express train ticket.

Another reason to book in advance is that sunset and nighttime viewing slots for this popular Japanese observatory often sell out quickly.

I actually procrastinated and missed out on evening tickets during my trip! 😭 I ended up having to visit during the day on my last day in Osaka.

While I still thoroughly enjoyed the daytime views from Harukas 300, if you're serious about seeing the nightscape, be sure to book your tickets well in advance!

*When purchasing the Kansai Joy Pass, you can reserve your visit date beforehand.

Exploring Harukas 300: An Osaka Itinerary Must-Do

After exchanging my pre-booked ticket, I took the elevator up to the 60th floor, where a jaw-dropping panorama unfolded before me.

The 60th-floor 'Sky Corridor' is a breathtaking space entirely enclosed by glass, allowing you to walk around and enjoy 360-degree views of Osaka. Even during the bright day, the vista was absolutely stunning.

Although I was a bit disappointed to miss the night view, the weather was on my side, offering clear, sunny skies. The unobstructed, expansive views helped ease my regret considerably.

There's even a cute photo zone in the middle, but since I was traveling solo, I coolly walked past it. (Maybe next time with a travel buddy!)

After soaking in the views from the 60th floor, I took the escalator down to the 58th floor.

True to its name, the Sky Garden is an outdoor park area. You can purchase snacks, coffee, or drinks from the restaurant on the same floor and enjoy them here while admiring the scenery. It looked like a perfect spot for a relaxing break.

I saw families chatting leisurely on the provided benches, creating a wonderfully serene and peaceful atmosphere.

On the opposite side, there were separate table seats by the window. Reading the notice, it seemed you could reserve these spots for dinner, perhaps even a BBQ, with stunning views.

Of course, it would likely be pricier than a regular restaurant, but honestly, visiting during the evening for dinner and the night view would make for an absolutely perfect travel experience.

If I were planning this Osaka trip with family, I'd definitely consider booking a dinner reservation here.

Since I had to catch my flight home that day, I didn't have time for a leisurely coffee. I quickly scanned the souvenir shop and headed back to Umeda Station.

The main highlight of Osaka's Harukas 300 Observatory is truly its magnificent night view, and I was so bummed I didn't get to experience it firsthand...

But hey, that's what I get for procrastinating!

So, learn from my mistake! Don't delay like I did. Make sure to book your tickets or use your Kansai Joy Pass to reserve your visit in advance, and immerse yourself in Osaka's breathtaking nightscape! 🎶

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