During a break between concerts of my favorite artist, I embarked on a two-day Osaka Ferris Wheel Tour with a friend, covering three wheels in total.
Here’s a detailed review of the final destination on our journey:
【HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel】
Located in Umeda, Osaka, HEP FIVE is a shopping and entertainment complex that boasts a ferris wheel attached to the building itself.
As of today, there are nine such building-integrated ferris wheels across Japan. Back in 1997, when this one was constructed, shopping malls were eager to add value through unique attractions. HEP FIVE chose to embody that concept with a bold, red ferris wheel. When it opened in 1998, it was one of the first of its kind globally, garnering much attention.
And oh, that vivid red color! Bold and unapologetic. You’d think something so striking might clash with its surroundings, but this is Osaka—it fits right in, adding character to the cityscape without sticking out awkwardly.
Time to Ride! Or Not…
Despite countless trips to Osaka, I’d never set foot on the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel. But since this was a Ferris Wheel Tour, I was determined to give it a shot.
Unfortunately, my previous ride on another ferris wheel had left me emotionally drained. With a bruised ego and shaky legs, I found myself muttering, “The weather’s bad... maybe I’ll pass this time...”
Let’s be honest—it’s terrifyingly high!!
Though the wheel itself is relatively modest in size at 77 meters in height, its location on the 7th floor of the building means you’re already far above ground before you even board. Add to that the peak height of 106 meters, and you’ll understand my hesitation.
Me: “This must be at least 250 meters above ground!”
Friend: “Not even close.”
Admiring It from Afar
Unable to summon the courage to ride, I resorted to gazing up at the ferris wheel from below.
The reflection of the steel framework on the building’s glass windows was breathtaking. Double the structure, double the joy!
The Struggles of Urban Photography
Capturing a clear shot of a city ferris wheel is no easy feat.
Obstacles abound, and you’ll rarely get an unobstructed view.
But hey, isn’t the challenge part of the fun? After all, overcoming obstacles makes the reward even sweeter.
The Beauty of the Steel Framework
What’s truly mesmerizing about this ferris wheel is its densely packed steel framework. Thick beams of varying lengths and angles crisscrossing—it’s like an architectural symphony.
I could stare at it for hours. Honestly, I think I could eat a meal with this as my visual side dish!
The 52 gondolas, with their rounded shapes reminiscent of takoyaki, are equally charming. So much so, they look good enough to eat!
Sometimes, these gondolas even get creative makeovers with collaboration-themed wraps.
Even if you don’t ride, the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is worth admiring for its audacious design and unique charm. But if you’re braver than I am, go ahead and hop on—you won’t regret it!
Details
- Ride Duration: ~15 minutes per loop
- Price: 600 yen/person (free for children under 5)
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Closed: Irregular holidays (check the official website for updates)
