Osaka’s landmark tower, “Tsutenkaku,” is registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property. On its golden observation deck, which offers a panoramic view of Osaka’s cityscape, stands a statue of “Billiken,” which is said to bring good luck if you touch the soles of its feet.
In July 1912, the first Tsutenkaku—resembling the Arc de Triomphe topped with the Eiffel Tower—was constructed as the symbol tower of the Luna Park amusement facility. Standing approximately 75 meters tall, it was the tallest structure in the Orient at the time; its name means “a tall building reaching to the heavens.”In January 1943, the first Tsutenkaku was destroyed by fire and subsequently demolished. Later, in 1956, the second Tsutenkaku was rebuilt thanks to a campaign by local residents.The second Tsutenkaku Tower stands 108 meters tall, including the lightning rod. It was designed by Tanao Naito, who also worked on the Tokyo Tower and other structures built around the same time. In recent years, it has continued to evolve year by year with the addition of new features such as a special outdoor observation deck and a tower slide.