LUCUA SOUTH is the newest addition to LUCUA Osaka, opening April 5, 2026, as a third building directly connected to JR Osaka Station. Occupying floors 10F through 16F of the South Gate Building, the project expands LUCUA’s footprint with approximately 35,000㎡ of total floor space, integrating retail and dining into one cohesive destination. It also brings the former 16F dining area under unified management, strengthening the overall scale of the complex.

The development is being rolled out in phases through autumn 2026, with full completion planned for 2027. Anchored by the large-scale LUCUA Characters World and the multi-floor LUCUA SOUTH DINING zone, the project aims to increase circulation within Osaka Station City while attracting new visitors, creating a space designed for everyday shopping, special occasions, and cross-generational entertainment alike.

Spanning floors 10F to 13F, LUCUA Characters World is the centerpiece of LUCUA SOUTH and one of the most ambitious character retail expansions in western Japan. The project will roll out in phases, beginning with an initial lineup in April 2026, followed by a major second wave in autumn 2026 that dramatically increases the scale of the zone. By 2027, the area is expected to house more than 40 character-focused stores, creating a dense, walkable hub for fans of games, anime, and Japanese pop culture.

From the very beginning, globally renowned content will be gathered on the 13th floor.

Nintendo OSAKA: An official store where you can enjoy Nintendo characters and the game world.


Pokémon Center Osaka: Continuing as a hub for one of Japan's most iconic franchises.


ONE PIECE Mugiwara Store: Official merchandise from the hit manga "ONE PIECE".


Capcom Store & Cafe Umeda: Limited merchandise and cafe experiences from popular titles.


Tomica & Plarail Shop: A shop for Japan's leading toy brands.

The second phase, opening in autumn 2026, marks the true expansion moment. A total of 29 new character shops are scheduled to open simultaneously, significantly transforming the scale and variety of LUCUA Characters World. Among them, six have already been revealed.

Making its Kansai debut, this flagship store for Narumiya characters is designed as a “happiness charge spot.” The concept centers on creating memorable, heartwarming experiences through character goods, offering a cheerful space to recharge and rediscover childhood excitement.

From Dragon Quest to Final Fantasy, this official Square Enix shop will feature a wide lineup of merchandise tied to its iconic game franchises. Expect everything from classic staples to the latest character goods.

Built around Shirotan, the baby harp seal character created by Creative Yoko, this shop will offer plush toys, lifestyle goods, and apparel. Since its debut in 1999, Shirotan has attracted fans of all ages with its soft, comforting aesthetic.

Featuring beloved characters such as Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi, along with newer additions, this shop will present a broad selection of goods spanning generations of fans.

Dedicated to the globally popular game Minecraft, this store will bring together plush toys, stationery, keychains, and exclusive items designed to excite longtime players and younger fans alike.

A flagship location for Studio UG characters including Gokigen Panda, Konezumi, and Love Rabbit. The interior is inspired by a nostalgic Japanese school shop, complete with original illustrations and exclusive merchandise available only at the main store.

With these additions and more to come, LUCUA Characters World is shaping up to be more than a collection of stores. It’s becoming a concentrated pop culture destination where global gaming giants, long-running Japanese icons, and contemporary character brands come together in one highly accessible location above Osaka Station.

While LUCUA Characters World may be the headline attraction, LUCUA SOUTH isn’t only about pop culture. Floors 14F through 16F are dedicated to LUCUA SOUTH DINING, a multi-level restaurant zone designed to complement the shopping experience.

At launch, 28 existing restaurants will continue operating, offering everything from Japanese classics such as sushi, tempura, tonkatsu, and unagi to casual cafés and family-friendly dining options. In the coming phases through 2027, the lineup is set to expand even further, with more than 35 restaurants planned in total.

The result is a seamless experience: browse exclusive character goods, then head upstairs for a relaxed lunch, celebratory dinner, or quick café break, all without leaving the building!

Meet beloved characters from around the world, then savor refined Japanese cuisine just steps away. At LUCUA SOUTH, the energy of Osaka’s urban hub, the excitement of character culture, and the pleasure of great food come together under one roof.

To celebrate the opening, a special giveaway campaign will also be held, making it well worth checking the official special website for details. Whether you’re hunting for exclusive merchandise, sharing a meal with friends, or simply soaking in the atmosphere above one of Japan’s busiest stations, this is where new travel memories begin. On your next trip to Japan, why not start right here at Osaka Station?

(Source/Main Image:PR Times)