Tempozan and Osaka’s Five Low Mountains
Tempozan is one of the “Five Low Mountains of Osaka.” When considering only naturally formed mountains, however, Japan’s lowest is Mt. Benten in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, which has an elevation of 6.1 meters.
The History of Tempozan
The Edo-Period Construction Project and the Birth of the Hill
Tempozan was created in 1831, during the Edo period, when a major dredging project known as the Tempo-era Okawa Dredging was carried out along the Ajigawa River.
Large quantities of sediment were piled up near the river mouth as part of efforts to reduce flooding and make it easier for large vessels to enter the river. The resulting artificial hill was initially known as Mejirushiyama, meaning “Landmark Mountain,” before later being named Tempozan after the Tempo era.
More than 100,000 workers are said to have taken part in the dredging project. Under the direction of the local magistrate’s office, the large-scale construction project reportedly created an atmosphere resembling a lively festival.
Tempozan from the End of the Edo Period to the Early Meiji Period
In 1854, after the Russian warship Diana made a threatening display in the area, a battery was constructed at Tempozan on the orders of the Osaka Castle governor. The fortification was never actually used and was eventually abandoned after the Meiji period began.
A Western-style lighthouse was later established on the site. The height of the hill was reduced over time, falling from approximately 7.2 meters and reaching about 4.7 meters by 1971.
The mountain name temporarily disappeared from topographical maps in 1993. Following requests from local residents, however, Tempozan was restored to the maps in 1996.
Tempozan Park
Tempozan Park opened in 1958 and has since become a popular sightseeing destination. The park is planted with beautiful cherry trees and pine trees, evoking the scenery depicted in ukiyo-e prints by the famous artist Utagawa Hiroshige, including scenes of people enjoying boat trips in the area.
Interestingly, the park contains several locations that are actually higher than the official summit of Tempozan, including observation areas. A seawall also surrounds the park as part of the area’s flood-control infrastructure.
Monuments and Other Features
Several monuments and objects within the park reflect Osaka’s history.
One monument commemorates the first naval fleet review in Japan, held by Emperor Meiji in 1868. The park is also home to a bronze statue of Sutezo Nishimura, who contributed to the development of Osaka Port.
Visitors can also see a decorative ceramic-tile reproduction of a ukiyo-e print by Utagawa Hiroshige. In addition, a clock tower in the park was installed as part of a project associated with the Kansai Television program Endless Night.
Tempozan Mountaineering Club and Climbing Certificates
Despite its extremely modest height, Tempozan has its own mountaineering club. The Tempozan Mountaineering Club was established in 1997 by local volunteers.
Since 1998, the club has issued paid Tempozan climbing certificates to visitors who reach the summit. Approximately 59,000 certificates had been issued by 2018, making them a popular souvenir for visitors.
The club has even organized a mountain rescue team, although there has never been a request for an actual rescue. Its main role is to provide guidance and assistance to people visiting the summit.
Access
By Train and Bus
Tempozan is approximately a 10-minute walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line.
Osaka City Bus and Nankai Bus services also stop at the Harbor Village and Tempozan bus stops. Limousine buses are also available from Kansai International Airport.
Tempozan Ferry
The Tempozan Ferry, operated by the City of Osaka, connects Chikko with Sakurajima in Konohana Ward.
Because passengers can enjoy a short boat ride while traveling between the two areas, the ferry is a popular transportation option for sightseeing.
Nearby Attractions
Tempozan Harbor Village and the Giant Ferris Wheel
The area around Tempozan is home to several popular Osaka attractions, including Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium and Tempozan Harbor Village.
The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, standing approximately 112.5 meters high, offers impressive panoramic views across Osaka Bay. At Tempozan Marketplace, visitors can also enjoy shopping and a wide selection of restaurants and food outlets.
Tempozan Passenger Terminal
From the Tempozan Passenger Terminal, visitors can board cruise vessels and explore Osaka Port from the water. The cruises provide a different perspective of the city and its waterfront scenery.
With its combination of the sea, historic port facilities, parks, and entertainment attractions, Tempozan has become a popular sightseeing area where Osaka’s urban landscape meets the waterfront.
An Unusual Osaka Sightseeing Experience
Tempozan offers a unique combination of history, nature, and entertainment. Although its “mountain” is only a few meters high, its unusual status, long history, and connection with Osaka’s waterfront make it an interesting destination.
Visitors can enjoy an easy “mountain climb” in Tempozan Park, explore nearby attractions such as the aquarium and Ferris wheel, and discover the history of Osaka Port. For travelers looking for an unusual and memorable experience in Osaka, Tempozan provides a fun way to see another side of the city.