HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel cover image
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Attraction

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel

HEP FIVE 観覧車

Das HEP FIVE Riesenrad ist ein knallrotes Dach-Riesenrad auf dem Einkaufszentrum HEP FIVE im Osakaer Stadtteil Umeda und bietet in etwa 15 Minuten eine Rundfahrt mit Panoramablick auf die Skyline, den Osaka-Bay und den Berg Ikoma. Die klimatisierten Gondeln mit Bluetooth-Lautsprechern erlauben es, eigene Musik abzuspielen – ideal als romantischer Date-Spot oder für Familien, besonders bei Nacht. Häufig ist die Fahrt in Pässen wie dem Osaka Amazing Pass enthalten und wird für das gute Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis und meist kurze Wartezeiten an Wochentagen gelobt. Derzeit ist das Riesenrad jedoch wegen umfangreicher Renovierungsarbeiten vom 14. Oktober 2025 bis voraussichtlich Ende April 2026 geschlossen, während das Einkaufszentrum normal geöffnet bleibt.

Opening hoursClosed for long-term renovation from 14 October 2025 until around late April 2026 (planned). The HEP FIVE mall, shops and restaurants remain open as usual. Ferris wheel: approx. 11:00–22:45 (last boarding).
Entry feeRegular adult fare: around 800 yen per person.
Recommended timeAround 15–30 minutes (one 15-minute rotation plus time for photos / short queue).
Age requirementsAll ages welcome; children 0–5 years ride free but must be accompanied by an adult.
AddressHEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, 7F HEP FIVE, 5-15 Kakuda-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0017, Japan
Websitehttps://www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/osaka/hep-five-ferris-wheel-85137/ →

HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel – Overview

The HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is an Osaka landmark: a bright-red wheel mounted on the rooftop of the HEP FIVE shopping mall in Umeda. From its air-conditioned gondolas, visitors enjoy a 360° view over central Osaka, including Osaka Bay and Mt. Ikoma on clear days. A full rotation takes about 15 minutes, making it an easy add-on to shopping, dining, or evening plans in Umeda.

Visitor Experience & Atmosphere

Reviews consistently highlight the views as the main reason to ride, with many guests saying the Ferris wheel is best at night when the neon lights of Osaka spread out in every direction. Each cabin is typically private for your group, which makes the experience feel relaxed and intimate—ideal for couples or small families. Bluetooth audio lets you connect your phone and play your own music, adding a fun, personal touch. Many visitors use city passes such as the Osaka Amazing Pass, Osaka e-Pass or shuttle passes, which often include a free ride, reinforcing the impression of strong value for money.

Queues, Timing and Operations

Waiting times vary by day and season. On weekdays, multiple reviewers mention boarding with little or no wait, while weekends and public holidays can see longer queues—up to around an hour at peak times. Because the ride is only 15 minutes, the overall recommended visit time is usually 15–30 minutes, or a bit more if you plan to take photos and browse the mall. Most guests agree that sunset and night are the best times to ride; several specifically recommend arriving in the early evening to watch the city slowly light up.

Strengths

  • Iconic city view: One of the easiest ways to get a high, central viewpoint over Osaka without leaving Umeda.
  • Comfortable cabins: Air conditioning, seating for up to four and Bluetooth music make the ride comfortable year-round.
  • Good value with passes: Frequently included in tourist passes, making it effectively free for many visitors.
  • Convenient location: Directly inside a popular youth-oriented mall with fashion shops, character stores and food options.

Weaknesses & Common Issues

  • Current long-term closure: The Ferris wheel is suspended for renovation from October 14, 2025 until approximately late April 2026, leading to many recent reviews from visitors who arrived to find it closed.
  • Information inconsistency: Some guests complain that Google Maps or third-party ticket sites still show it as open, causing wasted trips.
  • Limited overall thrill: It is a gentle observation ride; some reviewers note that beyond the view, there is “nothing special” if you are not into cityscapes.
  • Crowds at peak times: On weekends and holidays the mall is packed with teenagers and young adults, and queues can be long.

Tips for Visitors

  • Plan your visit for sunset or after dark if you want the most memorable views.
  • If you are using an Osaka city pass, check whether HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel is included during your travel dates.
  • Always confirm the latest operation status on the official HEP FIVE website, especially during the renovation period.
  • Combine your ride with shopping, arcade games or a meal in HEP FIVE to make the most of your time in Umeda.