HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, Osaka - a ferris wheel lit up in the night sky
1 / 10

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Osaka

4.4
·6k reviews·Osaka, Japan

Soar above Osaka on the iconic red HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel for breathtaking city views from its unique oval design atop a shopping complex.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, late afternoon

Fewer crowds, golden hour views

CrowdLow
Loading map...
HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, Osaka - a ferris wheel lit up in the night sky

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel Osaka

Best Time

Weekdays, late afternoon

Fewer crowds, golden hour views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Soar above Osaka on the iconic red HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel for breathtaking city views from its unique oval design atop a shopping complex.

4.4
(6k reviews)

"The HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel offers incredible 360-degree views of Osaka, making it a must-do attraction!"

Vertical photo
TIP

✅ Osaka Amazing Pass

Consider this pass for potential savings on entry and transit. It often covers HEP FIVE!

⏰ Check Opening Hours

The Ferris wheel typically opens around 2 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Top of HEP FIVE Shopping Complex

Soar above Osaka for breathtaking 360-degree views of the cityscape. A must-do for any visitor!

Instagram
Unique Oval Design

Unique Oval Design

HEP FIVE Shopping Complex

Experience the world's first oval-shaped Ferris wheel, a truly unique engineering marvel.

TikTok
Red Whale Landmark

Red Whale Landmark

HEP FIVE Shopping Complex Exterior

Spot the iconic giant red whale that adorns the exterior of the HEP FIVE building.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Consider the Osaka Amazing Pass for potential savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions. It often includes HEP FIVE. Check operating hours, as some sources suggest it opens around 2 PM. TikTokReddit

Location, Location, Location

HEP FIVE is conveniently located in the heart of Umeda, a major transportation hub. It's situated atop a shopping complex, making it easy to combine with shopping or dining. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Sparkling city lights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨Possibly the funnest and least expensive way to see an awesome view of Osaka, Japan! 📍Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel is the world's first oval ferris wheel and it's in the middle of Osaka! It's also the fi...
@leanneinjapan
43.8K likes • 740.9K views

✅ Osaka Amazing Pass

Consider this pass for potential savings on entry and transit. It often covers HEP FIVE! TikTokReddit

⏰ Check Opening Hours

The Ferris wheel typically opens around 2 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

I tested the worlds only ferris wheel inside a department store?! 📍 🇯🇵
@letstestlaurencemore
36.3K likes • 528.9K views
. 📍:Ferris wheel at HEP FIVE / Osaka, Japan 📸:@osakametro_nine 🚇:Umeda Station, Nishi-Umeda Station, Higashi-Umeda Station   #OsakaMetroNiNE #OsakaMetro #OsakaJapan #osaka #visitosaka #visitjapan #os...
osakametro_nine
139 likes • 5.1K views

🛍️ Shopping Combo

Ride the wheel, then explore the shops below. It's a perfect blend of sightseeing and retail therapy. TikTok

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning cityscapes from above, especially beautiful during sunset and at night. Instagram+1

HEP Five red ferris wheel in Osaka I really like seeing Osaka skyline from this ferris wheel. It rotates just right above the Osaka station. Mark this for your trip to Osaka. #japan #osaka #japant...
yasumijapan
4.2K likes • 57.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

✅ Osaka Amazing Pass

Consider this pass for potential savings on entry and transit. It often covers HEP FIVE! TikTokReddit

⏰ Check Opening Hours

The Ferris wheel typically opens around 2 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

🛍️ Shopping Combo

Ride the wheel, then explore the shops below. It's a perfect blend of sightseeing and retail therapy. TikTok

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning cityscapes from above, especially beautiful during sunset and at night. Instagram+1

🥶 Heated Pods (Seasonal)

During colder months, inquire about heated pods for a cozy ride. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel for its stunning panoramic views of Osaka and its unique oval design. Many highlight its convenience within the Umeda shopping district and the value offered by the Osaka Amazing Pass. Some find the ride a bit short, and a few mention it can be crowded during peak times.

"An unforgettable experience! The HEP Five Ferris Wheel offers stunning panoramic views of Osaka, especially at night when the city lights up. The ride is smooth and relaxing, and the air-conditioned gondolas make it comfortable even on warmer days. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s super convenient to access and a perfect break from shopping or sightseeing. Highly recommend it for couples, families, or anyone wanting a unique perspective of Osaka!"

Mathias Ha

"We visited the HEP Five Ferris Wheel and it wasn’t crowded at all. After redeeming the Osaka E-Pass, we could board the gondola within a minute - super fast and hassle-free!

The ride was very smooth and stable, even though it was high up. The gondola didn’t shake at all, even with the wind. We felt safe the whole time. The view of Osaka city from the top was beautiful.

Staff were also very friendly and helpful. A great experience overall - definitely worth it with the Osaka E-Pass!"

MOHAMAD FARHAN MORMIN

"Visited with Osaka Amazing Pass! Chill, slow-paced ride with beautiful city views. I went in the evening, and it was cool to see the neon lights, though the daytime view may have been more appealing. I appreciated that there was a window decal that helps you identify the major sights. We were able to get a glimpse of Osaka castle! Not sure if that was only possible due to darkness and illumination of the castle in the distance."

Anna Sorrentino

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Unique oval design
Convenient Umeda location

What People Dislike

Ride duration
Occasional crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

HEP FIVE is easily accessible via Umeda Station, Nishi-Umeda Station, or Higashi-Umeda Station. It's a short walk from these major transit hubs in Osaka. Instagram+1

While both are popular Osaka attractions, HEP FIVE is located in Umeda, which is a different district from Dotonbori. They are not in immediate walking distance but are connected by Osaka's efficient public transport. Reddit+1

Yes, if you have an Osaka Amazing Pass or a similar transit pass that includes the Osaka Metro, you can use it to reach the stations closest to HEP FIVE. TikTok+1

HEP FIVE is part of a large shopping complex, so there are parking facilities available. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to potential traffic and parking fees. Instagram

The closest stations are Umeda Station, Nishi-Umeda Station, and Higashi-Umeda Station, all of which are major hubs and offer convenient access to the Ferris wheel. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cost is generally affordable, with some sources mentioning around $4 AUD for a ride. It's often included in the Osaka Amazing Pass, which can be a great value. TikTokReddit

It's usually not necessary to buy tickets in advance, especially if you're not using a pass. However, purchasing the Osaka Amazing Pass beforehand can save time and money. TikTokReddit

The Ferris wheel typically opens in the afternoon, around 2:00 PM, and operates into the evening. It's always best to check the official website for the most current hours. Reddit

Yes, the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is frequently listed as an attraction covered by the Osaka Amazing Pass, making it a popular choice for pass holders. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets directly at the Ferris wheel entrance located within the HEP FIVE shopping complex. TikTok

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

The ride usually lasts for about 15 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the panoramic views of Osaka. TikTok

You'll get a fantastic 360-degree view of Osaka's cityscape, including the Umeda district, and on clear days, you might even see further afield. Instagram+1

During colder months, there are options for heated pods, sometimes featuring a cozy kotatsu table, for a more comfortable experience. TikTok

Some videos show people bringing snacks and drinks onto the ride, especially if they've opted for special packages or are enjoying a private experience. TikTok

While it offers great views, some visitors with a fear of heights might find it a bit daunting. However, many find the ride smooth and the enclosed pods reassuring. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset and nighttime offer the most dramatic and beautiful photo opportunities with the city lights. Daytime provides clear, expansive views. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The pods offer unobstructed views, making them perfect for capturing photos and videos of Osaka. Instagram

The giant red whale on the building's exterior is a popular photo spot. The surrounding Umeda area also offers great cityscapes. Instagram

A smartphone is perfectly adequate for most visitors. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive views. Instagram

Tripods are generally not recommended or permitted inside the pods due to space constraints and safety regulations. Handheld shots are best. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is a fun and accessible activity for families. The ride itself is gentle and offers exciting views that children will enjoy. TikTok The surrounding HEP FIVE mall has plenty of shops and dining options, making it easy to keep everyone entertained before or after the ride. TikTok Consider bringing snacks or drinks for the ride, as some visitors have been seen doing so. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Osaka Amazing Pass is highly recommended as it often includes the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, along with many other attractions. TikTok+1 Even without the pass, the individual ticket price is quite reasonable, especially considering the panoramic views you get. TikTok Combining the ride with shopping at HEP FIVE can also be a cost-effective way to experience a key Osaka landmark. TikTok

couples

A ride on the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel offers a romantic setting, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights twinkle below. Instagram+1 The enclosed pods provide a private space to enjoy the views together. Instagram Consider a weekday visit to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Osaka Amazing Pass: Your Key to Savings

The Osaka Amazing Pass is a fantastic option for maximizing your visit to Osaka, and it frequently includes access to the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel. This pass offers free entry to over 40 popular tourist attractions and unlimited use of the Osaka Metro and city buses. TikTok+1 Many travelers find it incredibly cost-effective, especially if they plan to visit multiple sights in a day or two. It can also help you bypass ticket lines at some attractions, saving valuable time. TikTok

When considering the pass, compare the cost of individual admissions to the pass price. For attractions like the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, which is relatively inexpensive on its own, the pass becomes more valuable when bundled with other major sights like the Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, or boat tours. Reddit+1 Remember to check the official website for the most up-to-date list of included attractions and any potential restrictions, such as ticket purchase limits for groups. Reddit

Experiencing HEP FIVE: Beyond the Ride

HEP FIVE is more than just a Ferris wheel; it's a vibrant shopping complex located in the bustling Umeda district. The iconic giant red whale on its exterior serves as a memorable landmark and a popular photo opportunity. Instagram Inside, you'll find a wide array of shops, from fashion and cosmetics to electronics and souvenirs, making it a great place to spend a few hours. TikTok+1

For those seeking a unique experience, HEP FIVE has offered special kotatsu pods during colder seasons. These heated pods provide a cozy environment to enjoy the views, complete with a traditional Japanese heated table. TikTok This offers a novel way to experience the Ferris wheel, turning a simple ride into a more immersive cultural activity. It’s a great example of how Japanese attractions often blend tradition with modern entertainment. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2