In the Osaka area, it seems easier to find Ferris wheels compared to other cities. You can spot Ferris wheels in Osaka’s Dotonbori, even at the Don Quijote department store, and in the Osaka harbor area. Additionally, at ‘Hep Five’ across from Kansai International Airport, considered a gateway to Osaka, you can also experience a Ferris wheel.
You can also find a Ferris wheel in Umeda, a central area in northern Osaka. The ‘Hep Five Ferris Wheel’ is located within a large shopping mall called ‘Hep Five.’
‘Ferris Wheel in Umeda, Osaka’
Umeda in Osaka is a central commercial district, often mentioned alongside Dotonbori as one of Osaka’s main business areas. While Dotonbori has a somewhat traditional feel, Umeda has a more urban vibe, comparable to Gangnam in Seoul, South Korea.
While Dotonbori is popular among tourists, Umeda is considered even trendier by the local Japanese population.
‘Ferris Wheel at Hep Five Shopping Mall’
The Hep Five Ferris Wheel is situated within the Hep Five shopping mall. Thanks to this arrangement, you can board the Ferris wheel directly from the shopping mall building.
To ride the Ferris wheel, take the elevator to the 7th floor. After confirming your ticket on the 7th floor, you can board the Ferris wheel.
‘Free Access with the Osaka Amazing Pass’
The admission fee for the Hep Five Ferris Wheel is 500 yen for adults, approximately 5,000 won. However, if you use the Osaka Amazing Pass, you can ride for free.
The Hep Five Ferris Wheel is located at a considerable height. Riding the Ferris wheel and looking out of the window can be quite dizzying.
Unfortunately, on the day I visited, it was raining, and the view outside the window wasn’t clear, which was a bit disappointing.
‘Polaroid Photo Opportunity at the Ferris Wheel’
Before boarding the Ferris wheel, they take a Polaroid photo for you. However, if you want to keep the photo, you need to pay 1,100 yen, around 11,000 won. Since it was quite pricey, I decided not to purchase it.
‘Operating Until Late Hours’
The Hep Five Ferris Wheel operates until late hours. The last boarding time is at 10:45 PM, making it a great option for filling your travel itinerary into the late night.
“Osaka Umeda, Hep Five Ferris Wheel”
- Address: 5-15 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture 530-0017, Japan
- Phone: +81 6-6366-3634
- Website: http://www.hepfive.jp/
- Operating Hours: 11:00 – 22:45 (Last boarding at 22:45)