From the mid-Meiji to early Showa periods, Ryounkaku was a tall tower located in Chayamachi. Built as the symbol of Yurakuen, an amusement park with a large pond and hot springs, this wooden structure was 39 meters tall and consisted of 9 floors. At the time, it was a trendy spot among many young visitors who came to enjoy tea while looking out over Osaka from the observation deck.

Osakans have always loved high places!

The first tall tower in Osaka was built during the mid-Meiji period. Chobokaku was a five-story tower built in Namba, followed by the nine-story Ryounkaku in Chayamachi. Both towers featured an observation deck on the top floors, and it was trendy at the time to go and take in the scenery of the city from up on high. Technology continues to advance, but Osakans still love the charm of high spaces.