Overview
Abeno APOLLO Building traces its origins to the former Apollo-za movie theater and continues its tradition of providing entertainment. Today, the building is home to Abeno Apollo Cinema, as well as bookstores, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.
The building is also connected by passageways to the nearby Abeno Lucias and Abeno Q’s MALL, allowing visitors to move easily between the major commercial facilities in the area.
Building Design and Layout
From the ninth floor upward, the floor area becomes narrower. This architectural feature has been used to create a terrace on the south side of the ninth floor.
The building has four passenger elevators and two service elevators. Two escalators operate between the second basement floor and the fourth floor, while one upward-only escalator operates between the fourth and fifth floors.
Some aspects of the building’s barrier-free accessibility have been slower to develop, and there are areas that may be inconvenient for wheelchair users.
Transportation Access
An airport bus stop for Osaka International Airport is located in front of the building, while parking is available in the basement.
As part of the integrated operation with the adjacent Abeno Lucias, the parking facilities and service entrances are managed efficiently together.
History
From Apollo-za to a Modern Commercial Complex
Abeno APOLLO Building began in 1950 as the Apollo-za movie theater. After subsequent expansion and redevelopment, it evolved into a comprehensive commercial building and established itself as a mixed-use destination combining shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Major Milestones
1950: The Apollo-za movie theater opened.
1957: It was renamed Apollo Kaikan and expanded to include multiple movie theaters.
1972: The comprehensive commercial complex Kinei Leisure Building Apollo opened.
1998: Redevelopment work with Abeno Lucias was completed.
2013: The movie theater was renamed Abeno Apollo Cinema.
2017: Apollo Cinema 8 Plus 1 reopened on the fourth floor.
Major Tenants and Facilities
Abeno APOLLO Building houses a diverse selection of tenants, providing visitors with a variety of shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday services.
Representative Tenants
Abeno Apollo Cinema: A cinema complex where visitors can enjoy the latest movies.
Kikuya Shoten: A bookstore offering a wide selection of books and manga.
FamilyMart: A convenient convenience store for everyday purchases.
Daikoku Drug: A drugstore selling medicines and daily necessities.
GiGO: An amusement arcade that has long been popular with visitors.
Kaikatsu CLUB: A facility combining internet café and manga café services.
Former Tenants
In the past, the building was also home to tenants such as Miki Gakki and Taito F Station. These businesses have since closed or relocated as the area and commercial environment have changed.
Access and Surrounding Area
Abeno APOLLO Building is centrally located in Abeno Ward, Osaka City, with convenient access by subway and bus. The surrounding area is also home to several popular destinations, making it possible to combine shopping, dining, entertainment, and sightseeing in a single visit.
Major Nearby Attractions
ABENO HARUKAS: One of Japan’s tallest skyscrapers.
Abeno Q’s MALL: A large shopping mall with a wide selection of brand-name stores.
Tennoji Park: A green urban oasis in the heart of Osaka.
Abeno APOLLO Building: A Historic Entertainment Destination
Abeno APOLLO Building combines a long history with the convenience of a modern commercial complex. Centered around Abeno Apollo Cinema, the building brings together a variety of shops and entertainment facilities.
Its convenient location and connections with neighboring commercial facilities make it a practical destination for both shopping and entertainment. For visitors exploring the Tennoji and Abeno area, the building provides an opportunity to experience one part of the district’s long entertainment history while enjoying its modern facilities.