News On Japan

Namba’s Iconic Tsutenkaku Tower May Be Sold, Negotiations Underway

OSAKA, Nov 11 (News On Japan) - A proposal has emerged to sell the operating company of Tsutenkaku Tower, an iconic symbol of Osaka’s Shinsekai district. As inbound tourism rebounds in the post-pandemic era, questions are rising over the future of this popular landmark.

The much-loved “symbol of Naniwa” could be approaching a major turning point. It has come to light that there is a proposal to sell the company operating Tsutenkaku, located in Shinsekai, Osaka. Nankai Electric Railway is reportedly among the potential buyers, though the sale price and timing remain undecided.

Takayuki Takai, President of Tsutenkaku Kanko: "We must preserve Tsutenkaku for the next 100 or even 200 years. We’re exploring various possibilities through negotiations with different companies. At this point, no concrete decisions have been made."

Tsutenkaku has become a favorite spot among international tourists as well. Although visitor numbers plummeted during the COVID-19 pandemic, last fiscal year saw approximately 1.37 million visitors—surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Standing at 108 meters, Tsutenkaku doesn’t match the Tokyo Skytree’s 634 meters in height, yet it captivates visitors with its uniquely Osaka charm.

The current proposal for a sale has emerged as the attraction’s revenue continues to grow. According to sources, the plan aims to ensure long-term operations at Tsutenkaku, enhancing its economic impact on the surrounding area. The idea of dismantling the tower is reportedly not under consideration.

Local Bakery Owner: "Tsutenkaku is a given here. Losing it would be absolutely unacceptable."

Rickshaw Puller: "We make a living with Tsutenkaku right here. If it’s for a positive future, I think that’s good."

Takai: "We’re having daily discussions with various companies. One of those conversations somehow leaked out (laughs). Nothing has been decided as of now. It even makes me wonder, ‘Am I being pushed out?’ But I don’t shy away from change. I always strive to make the best choices for Tsutenkaku and to fulfill that role."

Source: YOMIURI

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Business NEWS

The prototype line for next-generation semiconductors developed by Rapidus is now ready, as a nationwide initiative to boost Japan's chip industry takes a major step forward in Hokkaido.

The Japanese government approved a cabinet ordinance on April 1st to introduce a new pre-screening system for foreign companies investing in Japan. The revised regulation will take effect on May 19th.

The Bank of Japan's March Tankan survey, a key quarterly economic report, showed that business sentiment among large manufacturers has deteriorated for the first time in four quarters.

Tokyo has made it mandatory to install solar panels on newly built houses starting April 1st, as part of its broader effort to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

The new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the Kansai region holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

Sukiya, one of Japan's leading beef bowl restaurant chains, announced it will temporarily close nearly all of its stores after an insect was found in a food item served at one of its outlets.

Fuji Television announced a sweeping overhaul of its management structure on March 27th, including the retirement of longtime executive Hisashi Hieda, who served on the board for 41 years.

The Trump administration announced on March 26th that it will impose an additional 25% tariff on imported automobiles and key auto parts. According to the proclamation signed by President Trump, the tariffs are set to take effect on April 3rd and will apply to all imported vehicles, including those from Japan.