Oasis 21 is a multi-level complex in the Sakae district of Nagoya, next to Hisaya Odori Park and the Nagoya TV Tower. Its glass roof, the Spaceship-Aqua, sits about 14 m above the ground, with water flowing across its surface. You can walk the roof and look out over the city, with the TV Tower reflected in the water. Below, a shopping level, an event space and a bus terminal make the stop practical in any weather. Come in the evening to see the roof lit up, then browse the shops underneath.
From urban park to landmark
Oasis 21 opened in 2002 as a new kind of urban park, one that combines the city environment with information for visitors. It won the Good Design Award in 2003 for creating an urban park landscape that was new at the time.
The complex spreads its levels out horizontally rather than stacking them vertically. Its designers used the space on the ground and below ground in an open way, instead of filling the site with dense towers. In 2017, a photogenic tourist attraction ranking selected by visitors placed it second in Japan, and it remains one of the best-known spots in the Sakae and Fushimi area.
Three levels, one complex
The ground level is the Green Earth, a lawn plaza with benches where you can rest. Below ground, the Galaxy Plaza holds shops, restaurants and an event space where festivals and performances are held through the year.
The top level is the Spaceship-Aqua, a glass roof with a shallow pool of water. The structure holds about 15 tons of water, which flows across the glass. The water also helps keep the complex cool, and it gives the roof its reflective look at night. A bus terminal for city and highway buses sits within the complex, so it is a useful transit stop as well as a place to walk.
Walking the Spaceship-Aqua
A garden path runs around the edge of the roof. You walk above the water and look down on the surrounding streets, with the Nagoya TV Tower close by. The lighting changes with the seasons, and at night the colored lights and the TV Tower's glow both show up on the water's surface.
During the day, the sun reflects hard off the glass, but the roof is much quieter than it is at night. Clear photos are easy to take in daylight.
Getting there and getting help
The complex connects directly to Sakae Station through exits 4 and 4A. It is also linked to the Meitetsu Sakaemachi Station, so you can reach it underground when the weather turns.
A tourist information center is inside the complex for visitors who need directions or advice. The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and the site offers an assistive hearing loop.
Saturday morning farmers' market
Every Saturday morning, around 20 tables and stalls are set up at the complex. Farmers and their families sell organic and natural produce, including vegetables, rice, fruit and processed farm goods. The selection changes with the season, so you may find something unusual on some weeks.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee for Oasis 21?
No. Oasis 21 is free to visit, including the Spaceship-Aqua roof.
How do I get to Oasis 21?
The complex connects directly to Sakae Station through exits 4 and 4A, and it is also linked to the Meitetsu Sakaemachi Station. It has a bus terminal for city and highway buses.
How long do you need at Oasis 21?
Allow 30 to 45 minutes without an event. Longer if you plan to shop or browse the Galaxy Plaza.
Is Oasis 21 wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
When is the farmers' market at Oasis 21?
It is held every Saturday morning, with around 20 tables and stalls of farm produce.
