“A visionary eco-conscious urban park combining glass architecture, water, light, and greenery in central Nagoya.”
Oasis 21 is not only one of Nagoya’s most recognizable modern landmarks, but also a pioneering example of environmentally conscious urban design. Conceived as a “public space of the future,” the complex integrates a city park, event plaza, commercial areas, and a major transportation hub into a single, harmonious structure.
The centerpiece of Oasis 21 is the glass rooftop known as Spaceship-Aqua, officially referred to in Japanese as
“Mizu no Uchu-fune” (水の宇宙船 – Spaceship of Water).
This transparent oval structure is covered by a thin layer of flowing water, which reflects natural light down into the lower levels while also helping to cool the surrounding environment. This innovative use of water plays a key role in mitigating the urban heat island effect in the dense Sakae district.
At night, Oasis 21 transforms dramatically through a carefully designed LED light-up system. The rooftop and surrounding structures are illuminated in color schemes that change according to seasons, festivals, and city events, ensuring that no two nighttime visits look exactly the same—especially when paired visually with the nearby Chubu Electric Power MIRAI TOWER.
At ground level, the Field of Green provides a gently sloping lawn filled with seasonal flowers and trees, including cherry blossoms in spring. It functions as a rare green refuge within Nagoya’s commercial core.
Below ground, the Galaxy Platform serves as a large open-air event plaza hosting activities throughout the year. During winter (approximately December to March), this space is transformed into the popular Oasis 21 Silver Rink, a synthetic ice-skating rink enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
How to Get There
-
From Nagoya Station: Take the Higashiyama Subway Line to Sakae Station (approx. 5 minutes).
-
From Sakae Station: Follow signs to Exit 4 or use the direct underground passage to Oasis 21.
Travel Tips
-
Magic Hour Photography: Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to capture both twilight skies and the gradual illumination of city LED lights.
-
Reflection Shot (Must-Try Angle): On the Spaceship-Aqua rooftop, place your camera close to the water’s surface to capture stunning reflections of MIRAI TOWER for professional-grade architectural photos.
-
Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout Oasis 21, ideal for real-time navigation and photo uploads.
-
Shopping & Souvenirs: The basement level features popular stores such as Jump Shop (Shonen Jump merchandise) and Donguri Republic (Studio Ghibli collectibles), making it a perfect post-visit shopping stop.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission (including access to the rooftop walkway)
Opening Time:
-
General Public Areas & Rooftop Access: 06:00 – 23:00 (daily)
-
Spaceship-Aqua (Glass Rooftop Walkway): 10:00 – 21:00
-
Shops: Mostly open 10:00 – 21:00
-
Restaurants: Mostly open 10:00 – 22:00