Daibiru Honkan

Daibiru Honkan is a landmark office building located on Nakanoshima, a narrow island in the heart of Osaka between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers. Completed in 1930, this 10-story structure was one of the first high-rise buildings in Osaka and exemplifies early modern architecture with its clean lines, symmetrical facade, and subtle Art Deco details. The building's exterior features pale yellow tiles and vertical window bands that create a sense of height and elegance. Visitors often admire the building from the outside while strolling along the riverfront, as it stands out among the surrounding greenery and water. Inside, the lobby retains original design elements such as marble floors and brass fixtures, offering a glimpse into Osaka's prewar commercial history. The building is not open for general tours, but its exterior is a popular photo spot, especially when illuminated at night. Its location near Osaka City Hall and the Museum of Oriental Ceramics makes it a convenient stop on a cultural walk through Nakanoshima.

Don't miss

• Admire the Art Deco-influenced facade with pale yellow tiles and vertical window bands
• Photograph the building from the riverside promenade for a classic Osaka skyline shot
• Visit the lobby to see original marble and brass details (if accessible)
• Combine with a walk along the Nakanoshima riverfront parks and museums

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Daibiru Honkan

Cheapest way inOsaka: 2-Hour Highlights & Local Spots Walking Tour4.9★ · 464 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →Most bookedOsaka Food Tour: 15 Delicious Dishes & 3 drinks at 5 Eateries4.9★ · 3,137 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$82 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleOsaka Kickstart: Hotspots & Hidden Gems Tour4.9★ · 1,777 travelers3-7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$43 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• The building is primarily an office; there are no shops or cafes inside.
• Best photo spot is from the opposite side of the river, near the Nakanoshima Park.
• Combine with a visit to the nearby Museum of Oriental Ceramics or Osaka City Hall.
• Night illumination makes the building stand out against the dark sky.

A bit of history

Daibiru Honkan was built in 1930 as the headquarters of Daibiru Corporation, a real estate company. It was designed by architect Togo Murano, who later became a leading figure in Japanese modernism. The building survived World War II bombings and remains a symbol of Osaka's early 20th-century modernization.