Tempozan Harbor Village Ferris Wheel, Osaka

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel in Osaka is a prominent feature of the Tempozan Harbor Village, an entertainment and shopping complex that also includes the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Opened on July 12, 1997, the Ferris wheel was the tallest in the world at the time, standing at 112.5 meters (369 feet) in height and 100 meters (330 feet) in diameter.

Located strategically next to the Kaiyukan Aquarium, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel offers a comprehensive entertainment experience. The complex is filled with a variety of shops selling Osaka-themed souvenirs and gifts, restaurants that feature local cuisine and offers both the Ferris wheel and sightseeing cruises that captivate tourists and locals alike. This mixture of attractions ensures a full day of entertainment for all ages.

The ride on the Ferris wheel lasts approximately 17 minutes, during which riders can enjoy expansive views of Osaka Bay and landmarks such as Mount Ikoma to the east, the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge to the west, Kansai International Airport to the south, and the Rokko Mountains to the north.

An interesting feature of the Tempozan Ferris Wheel is its weather forecasting capability; it uses colored lights to indicate the weather forecast for the following day: orange lights suggest a sunny day, green lights a cloudy day, and blue lights predict rain. This unique attribute adds a layer of engagement to the experience.

The Tempozan Ferris Wheel was a record-holder until newer Ferris wheels were introduced, including the Daikanransha in Odaiba, Tokyo, and the now-defunct Sky Dream Fukuoka, which surpassed it in size. Despite newer and taller Ferris wheels, Tempozan remains a landmark attraction, offering unforgettable panoramic views and a unique blend of entertainment and cultural experiences in Osaka.