After nearly 10 years, Dotonbori Ferris Wheel in Japan to resume operation

The long-dormant Dotonbori Ferris Wheel led many to think it was just decoration. (Photo by Lin Chengyan)

Visitors who have shopped in Osaka’s Dotonbori shopping district will surely recognize the “God of Fortune Ferris Wheel” (えびすタワー) atop the Don Quijote Dotonbori store along the Dotonbori River. Due to the lack of operation for many years, many assumed it was merely an ornament. However, this Ferris Wheel is actually functional, and after responding to visitors’ wishes to ride it, the operator has completed renovations and will reopen it on January 19, 2018—nearly nine years and seven months after it stopped running.

The Don Quijote Ferris Wheel first opened in March 2005 but was suspended in 2008 after cracks were found in its track. For many, riding the Ferris Wheel in Dotonbori was a cherished memory. In response to public demand, the operator carried out repairs and will resume operation on January 19, 2018—about nine years and seven months after it was halted.

Standing 77.4 meters tall, the Ferris Wheel features 32 four-person gondolas that travel along a track mounted on the front of a building, completing one rotation in about 15 minutes. Its unique oval-shaped track has earned it nicknames comparing it to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. Popular for featuring Ebisu, the god of prosperity, and the company mascot “Penguin-kun,” it has become one of the iconic landmarks along the Dotonbori River. The planned operating hours are from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, year-round, with a fare of 600 Japanese yen (approximately NT$157) per person.