Hep Five Ferris Wheel – A Must-Visit Attraction in Osaka

The Hep Five Ferris Wheel, located in the Umeda area of Osaka, is a iconic landmark that offers a unique and breathtaking view of the city. This attraction is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Osaka from a new perspective.

Location and Access

The Hep Five Ferris Wheel is situated atop the Hep Five department store, which is easily accessible from several major train stations. It is approximately a 3-minute walk from Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station, a 4-minute walk from the Midosuji exit of JR Osaka Station, and about a 5-minute walk from both Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and Higashi-Umeda Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line.

Operating Hours and Admission

The Ferris wheel operates from 11:00 AM to 10:45 PM, with the last boarding time at 10:45 PM. The admission price is ¥600 per person, and children under 5 years old can ride for free.

The Ride Experience

The Hep Five Ferris Wheel stands at an impressive height of around 106 meters and has a diameter of 75 meters. It features 52 four-person cars, all of which are fully air-conditioned for a comfortable ride. Each ride lasts approximately 15 minutes, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the Osaka cityscape.

Scenic Views

On clear days, the view from the top extends as far as the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge in the east and Mt. Ikoma in the west. At night, the city lights create a dazzling display, making the experience equally enjoyable regardless of the time of day.

Building-Integrated Design

The Hep Five Ferris Wheel is notable for being the first building-integrated type of Ferris wheel in Japan. The loading area is located on the seventh floor of the Hep Five building, adding a unique element to the overall experience.

Additional Services and Discounts

By displaying your Ferris wheel ticket stub or advance ticket, you can avail of discount services or special offers at some HEP FIVE stores. Additionally, if you show a Hankyu Hanshin Odekake Card, you can get a ¥100 discount on your Ferris wheel ride.

Nearby Attractions

HEP Five is part of a larger shopping complex that includes HEP Navio, which features a Cineplex and various restaurants. The area is known for its trendy shops and boutiques, making it a great place to spend the day shopping and dining after enjoying the Ferris wheel ride.

Tips for Visitors

• Weather Considerations: The Ferris wheel may be closed during unfavorable weather conditions or natural disasters. It is advisable to check the official website for any updates before planning your visit.
• Combining with Shopping: Your Ferris wheel ticket can also be used to get discounts at select stores within the HEP Five complex, making it a great way to combine shopping and sightseeing.
• Accessibility: The Ferris wheel is easily accessible from multiple train lines, making it convenient for visitors to reach from various parts of the city.