展望タワー

Gazing upwards at Tsūtenkaku Tower, have you ever wondered about its unique name? It translates to “Tower Reaching Heaven,” a rather ambitious title. This isn’t the first tower to hold this name. The original Tsūtenkaku, inspired by both the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, was built in 1912. It was connected to Luna Park, a nearby amusement park, by a cable car. Standing at 64 meters, it was the second tallest structure in Asia. Tsūtenkaku quickly became a beloved Osaka landmark, attracting visitors from everywhere. Tragedy struck in 1943 when a fire ravaged the tower. Instead of repairs, it was dismantled, its steel repurposed for World War II efforts. After the war, the people of Osaka yearned for their tower’s return. A company, Tsūtenkaku Kanko Co. Ltd., was formed. They commissioned Tachū Naitō, known as Japan’s “Father of Towers”, for the redesign. The new, eight-sided Tsūtenkaku was unveiled in 1956. Today, Tsūtenkaku stands tall at 103 meters. The main observation deck, at 91 meters, offers stunning views of Osaka. But there’s more to Tsūtenkaku than just the view. On the fifth floor, you’ll find Billiken, the God of Happiness. This charming figure, with his outstretched legs and mischievous grin, invites you to rub the soles of his feet for good luck. The tower is also adorned with vibrant lights. Hitachi has sponsored the tower since 1957, and its advertisements often appear in lights. But look closely, and you’ll also find public service announcements displayed. Even the lights at the very top have a purpose, acting as a weather beacon, forecasting the next day’s conditions. So next time you see Tsūtenkaku Tower, remember its story of resilience and rebirth. It’s more than a tower. It’s a symbol of Osaka’s spirit.