Osaka to open Japan's tallest building

[TOKYO] Japan's tallest building will open today in Osaka, as Asia's third-biggest metropolitan economy aims to lure tourists and stem businesses from moving to Tokyo.

Kintetsu Corp, one of the main rail operators in western Japan, spent 130 billion yen (S$1.6 billion) and four years constructing the 300-meter Abeno Harukas skyscraper, according to the Osaka-based company. It will surpass the 296-meter Landmark Tower in Yokohama, about 32km south of central Tokyo.

The new 60-floor complex, which includes a Marriott International Inc hotel, and a separate proposal for a 500 billion yen casino resort are the latest attempts to bolster the city's economy.