Expo '70 Commemorative Park, Osaka - A street light in front of a building
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Expo '70 Commemorative Park Osaka

4.3
·21k reviews·Suita, Japan

A vast park on the site of the 1970 World Expo, featuring the iconic Tower of the Sun, museums, gardens, and seasonal blooms.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms & tulips bloom

CrowdMedium
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Expo '70 Commemorative Park, Osaka - A street light in front of a building

Expo '70 Commemorative Park Osaka

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms & tulips bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast park on the site of the 1970 World Expo, featuring the iconic Tower of the Sun, museums, gardens, and seasonal blooms.

4.3
(21k reviews)

"A sprawling green oasis with a retro-futuristic icon, perfect for a day of exploration and natural beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all its attractions. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Photo Ops Beyond the Obvious

While the Tower of the Sun is a main attraction, explore other areas for unique photo opportunities, like the Japanese Garden. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tower of the Sun

Tower of the Sun

Center of the park

Iconic symbol of the 1970 World Expo, this striking sculpture is a must-see for its unique design and historical significance.

Japanese Garden

Japanese Garden

Within the park

A serene escape featuring traditional landscaping, tranquil ponds, and meticulously maintained flora. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Museum of Ethnology

Museum of Ethnology

Within the park

Explore diverse cultures and artifacts from around the world, offering an educational and engaging experience for all ages.

Seasonal Flower Gardens

Seasonal Flower Gardens

Various locations

From vibrant tulips in spring to colorful autumn foliage, the park's gardens offer a stunning display of nature's beauty throughout the year.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially outside of peak spring and autumn seasons. Weekends can get busy with local families enjoying the vast green spaces. Consider visiting during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Getting There & Around

The Osaka Monorail's Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station is the most convenient access point.Instagram+2 Once inside, the park is expansive, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. Renting a bicycle can be a great way to cover more ground.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Cherry blossoms & tulips bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stop taking your photos directly in front of #OsakaCastle where all of the tourists queue to enter—instead walk left and find this giant stone surrounded by shrubs for THE BEST photo opp! 📸🏯 #osaka #o...
@victoriahui
21.6K likes • 533.9K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all its attractions. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Photo Ops Beyond the Obvious

While the Tower of the Sun is a main attraction, explore other areas for unique photo opportunities, like the Japanese Garden. :camerawithflash:

Pas kecil baca komiknya, skrg bisa liat aslinya ☺️. #towerofthesun #osaka #expo70commemorativepark
@kent.hadi
14.7K likes • 220.4K views
Osaka Monorail’s Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station, the closest station to Expo ‘70 Commemorative Park Station, has five turnouts to control train destinations. #train #trains #monorail #osakamonorail #suita...
takashiokita
97.8K likes • 9.8M views

🚲 Rent a Bicycle

To cover the vast grounds efficiently, consider renting a bicycle. It's a fun way to see more of the park. :bicycle:

💧 Bring a Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key, especially during warmer months. You can refill your bottle at various points within the park. :droplet:

up north from the osaka you might know, 50 minutes away– this beautiful park awaits 🌷 📍Expo '70 Commemorative Park, Suita, Osaka #osaka #japan #travel #japantravel #park #spring
deniseuson
0 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all its attractions. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Photo Ops Beyond the Obvious

While the Tower of the Sun is a main attraction, explore other areas for unique photo opportunities, like the Japanese Garden. :camerawithflash:

🚲 Rent a Bicycle

To cover the vast grounds efficiently, consider renting a bicycle. It's a fun way to see more of the park. :bicycle:

💧 Bring a Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key, especially during warmer months. You can refill your bottle at various points within the park. :droplet:

🗺️ Plan Your Route

With multiple attractions, it's wise to have a general plan to make the most of your visit. Check the park map beforehand. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(21k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Expo '70 Commemorative Park for its vast green spaces, iconic Tower of the Sun, and diverse attractions like the Museum of Ethnology and beautiful gardens. It's a popular spot for families and those seeking a peaceful escape. Some find the park's size overwhelming and recommend planning your visit to maximize time.

"As a fan of 20th Century Boys, this place instantly became a must visit for me when I’m in Osaka. The statue is incredible. I love the striking design and surreal vibe. It really blew my mind seeing it in person. It feels like stepping into a scene from the manga or being transported back to the 70s. Just standing in front of it was such a cool experience.

Beyond the statue, the surrounding of the Park is a great place to explore. It is peaceful. When I went, there happened to be a ramen expo and it was amazing and definitely made the trip feel even more worth it. The park also seems to host different seasonal events, so it is a fun place whether you are into the statue, the food, or just want to relax in a nice outdoor setting."

Earn S.

"Personally, I really love this park! The train ride from Osaka city center is pretty convenient. I actually entered through the west side gate by accident, there was no tourist there at all, which made the whole experience feel even more peaceful. The nature is beautiful and super refreshing to be around.

I spent about two hours in the National Museum of Ethnology. It's a cool place to explore. After that, I exited from the main gate and got some great photos of the Tower of the Sun. I’d highly recommend visiting if you’re looking for a nice change of pace from the busy city!"

Xinning Gu (Fay)

"After my visit to the 2025 Osaka expo, I decided to visit the expo ‘70 park and that was a good thing!
The tower of the sun is truly amazing and inside you can see the tree of life, which is quite impressive, especially when you consider that it was made 55 years ago!
The museum is also superb, showing many things from the ‘70 expo, including the original face of the tower of the sun.
Originally I had thought that I would spend a couple of hours at the park, but I ended up spending closer to 6 hours.. it was that engrossing!
Highly recommended!!"

viking252200

What People Like

Iconic Tower of the Sun
Spacious green areas
Diverse attractions

What People Dislike

Park is very large

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is to take the Osaka Monorail to Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station, which is directly connected to the park.Instagram+2 From central Osaka, you can reach this station via various train lines connecting to the Monorail.

Yes, there are several parking lots available for visitors arriving by car. However, public transport is generally recommended to avoid potential traffic and parking hassles.

Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station on the Osaka Monorail is the closest and most direct access point to the park.Instagram+2

From Umeda Station, you'll typically take a train to connect to the Osaka Monorail. The total travel time to Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station is usually around 40-50 minutes.

The Japan Rail Pass generally covers JR lines. The Osaka Monorail is not a JR line, so it is not covered by the JR Pass. You will need to purchase separate tickets for the Monorail.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the main park grounds is generally free. However, some specific attractions within the park, such as the Museum of Ethnology or special exhibitions, may require separate admission fees.

The park's opening hours can vary depending on the season and specific attractions. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Yes, the Tower of the Sun is accessible, and visitors can go inside to view the exhibits. There might be an admission fee for entry into the tower itself.

Discounts are typically not available for general park entry as it's often free. However, check for potential package deals if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions within the park.

For specific attractions like the Museum of Ethnology or the Tower of the Sun, it's advisable to check their individual websites for advance ticket purchase options, which can sometimes save time.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the iconic Tower of the Sun, the Museum of Ethnology, the Japanese Garden, and various seasonal flower displays like tulips Instagram and cherry blossoms.Instagram+1

Absolutely! The park offers vast open spaces for kids to run around, playgrounds, and educational attractions like the Museum of Ethnology, making it a great family destination.Reddit

To fully explore the park and its main attractions, plan for at least half a day to a full day, especially if you intend to visit the museums or enjoy a leisurely pace. Reddit

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes within the park offering various dining options. Alternatively, the adjacent Expo City shopping mall has numerous food choices.Reddit

Generally, you can bring your own food and drinks. However, it's always good practice to check specific rules for any particular areas or events within the park. Some Reddit users suggest it's allowed, but to be mindful of security checks.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Tower of the Sun is a prime subject, especially with the surrounding greenery. The Japanese Garden offers serene shots, and the seasonal flower fields provide vibrant backdrops.Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and the enjoyment of other visitors. It's best to check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation.

While general photography is usually permitted, some indoor exhibits within museums might have restrictions. Always look for signage indicating 'No Photography' areas.

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the Tower of the Sun. Midday can be harsh, but also provides clear views.

Yes, taking photos of the monorail and station is generally allowed, as seen in various social media posts.Instagram+2 It's a unique aspect of accessing the park.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Expo '70 Commemorative Park is a fantastic destination for families. The park's vast open spaces are perfect for children to run and play freely. Beyond the playgrounds, the Museum of Ethnology offers engaging exhibits that can spark curiosity in young minds.Reddit The Tower of the Sun is also a visually stimulating landmark that kids often find fascinating. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots, making for a relaxed and budget-friendly family outing.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

For solo travelers, Expo '70 Commemorative Park offers a great opportunity for independent exploration and reflection. The sheer size of the park means you can easily spend hours wandering through different sections, from the serene Japanese Garden to the educational exhibits. The Tower of the Sun provides a unique focal point, and the seasonal flower displays offer ever-changing beauty. It's a place where you can set your own pace and discover hidden corners at your leisure.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find plenty to capture at Expo '70 Commemorative Park. The Tower of the Sun is an iconic subject, offering dramatic shots, especially during the golden hours. The Japanese Garden provides opportunities for serene landscape photography, while the seasonal flower fields are a dream for macro and vibrant color shots.Instagram+1 Don't forget to capture the unique architecture of the Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station and the Osaka Monorail as part of your photographic journey.Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Tower of the Sun: A Retro-Futuristic Icon

The Tower of the Sun is the undisputed centerpiece of Expo '70 Commemorative Park, designed by the renowned artist Taro Okamoto. It served as the symbol of the 1970 Japan World Exposition, embodying the spirit of progress and the future. Standing at an impressive 70 meters tall, its distinctive design features three faces: the golden Sun Face looking towards the future, the black Sun Face looking towards the past, and the red Sun Face on the back representing the present. Inside, a "Tree of Life" exhibit showcases the evolution of life, adding another layer of meaning to this artistic marvel.TikTok Visiting the tower offers a glimpse into Japan's post-war optimism and its embrace of modernism.

Many visitors find the Tower of the Sun to be a fascinating and somewhat surreal experience, a true relic of a bygone era of grand international expositions. Its bold colors and unique form make it an unforgettable landmark. While the exterior is striking, the interior exhibition provides a deeper understanding of its symbolism and the themes of the 1970 Expo. It's a must-see for anyone interested in art, history, or unique architectural achievements.

Exploring the Park's Diverse Attractions

Beyond the iconic Tower of the Sun, Expo '70 Commemorative Park is a sprawling green oasis with a variety of attractions catering to different interests. The Museum of Ethnology is a significant draw, housing an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that explore the cultures of peoples from around the world. It's an excellent place for educational enrichment and gaining a broader perspective on global diversity.Reddit For those seeking tranquility, the Japanese Garden offers a meticulously designed landscape with serene ponds, traditional tea houses, and seasonal flora, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

The park also boasts impressive seasonal flower gardens, which are a major highlight during spring and autumn. Visitors can marvel at vibrant tulip festivals Instagram and the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms Instagram+1 in spring, or the rich hues of autumn foliage. These natural displays transform the park into a picturesque setting, perfect for leisurely walks and photography. The vast open spaces are also ideal for picnics and recreational activities, making it a popular destination for local families and tourists alike.Instagram

Accessing the Park: The Osaka Monorail

The Osaka Monorail plays a crucial role in connecting visitors to Expo '70 Commemorative Park. The Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station is the primary gateway, offering direct access to the park grounds.Instagram+2 This elevated rail system not only provides a convenient mode of transport but also offers unique aerial views of the surrounding landscape as you approach the park. The station itself is an interesting point of interest, with its distinctive track layout noted by some observers.Instagram+2

While the Monorail is the most direct route, it's important to note that it is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass, requiring a separate fare. Travelers coming from different parts of Osaka will need to connect to the Monorail line. Planning your route in advance, especially if you are unfamiliar with Osaka's public transport system, is highly recommended to ensure a smooth journey to this expansive park.

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