Expo '70 Commemorative Park in Suita City, Osaka, was built on the site of the 1970 Japan World Exposition. The vast grounds feature the iconic Tower of the Sun, seasonal nature, Japanese gardens, museums, hot springs, and many other diverse attractions – too much to enjoy in just one day.
What is Expo '70 Commemorative Park?
The iconic Tower of the Sun at Expo '70 Commemorative Park
Located in northern Osaka, this park is famous for the Tower of the Sun created by artist Taro Okamoto. The exposition site features a Japanese garden, Natural and Cultural Gardens, and the EXPO'70 Pavilion displaying materials from the time, offering enjoyment for both adults and children.
EXPOCITY, the large complex facility that opened in 2017
In 2017, the large complex facility EXPOCITY opened adjacent to the park, making it a popular tourist destination in the Osaka suburbs.
The 1970 Osaka Expo featured 77 participating countries and welcomed over 64 million visitors. Its theme was "Progress and Harmony for Mankind." You can still experience this history today.
World's Largest Athletic Tower "Banpaku BEAST"
The massive athletic facility Banpaku BEAST
"Banpaku BEAST," which opened in 2020, is a giant athletic facility standing 24 meters high with 120 different activities. From climbing to balance competitions, it offers fun for both children and adults.
Picnicking in the Natural and Cultural Gardens
Beautiful seasonal flowers in the Natural and Cultural Gardens
The Natural and Cultural Gardens surrounding the Tower of the Sun are a popular spot where you can enjoy picnics while admiring seasonal flowers and autumn foliage. Cherry blossoms in spring, sunflowers in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and plum and camellia in winter create beautiful scenery throughout the year.
The gardens also feature swan boats, an adventure playground, and the free Forest Foot Bath, making them perfect for families and couples.
Popular Playground Areas for Children
Unique playground equipment throughout the park
The park features abundant unique playground equipment. Notable attractions include the 12-meter-high giant roller slide "Yattane no Ki" and the "Wakuwaku Pond Adventure Playground" with soft ground for safe play. Perfect for families with children.
"Solado" - Canopy Walk Experience
The elevated walkway through the forest canopy
Sorado is an aerial observation path in the Natural and Cultural Garden. This elevated walkway runs through the trees, allowing visitors to enjoy the forest scenery from a different perspective than on the ground.
Japanese Garden - Experience the Beauty of Japan
The expansive Japanese Garden with traditional elements
The vast Japanese Garden created for the expo combines styles from the Heian, Kamakura, Edo, and modern periods. You can fully experience Japanese culture through waterfalls, lotus ponds, and matcha tea experiences at the "Senri-an" tea house.
EXPO'70 Pavilion
Historical displays from the 1970 Osaka Expo
This memorial museum displays photographs, posters, and dioramas from 1970, allowing visitors to experience the excitement of the exposition. The original "Space Theater" from that time is also preserved inside.
Tower of the Sun Interior Tour
The Tree of Life inside the Tower of the Sun
The Tower of the Sun, symbol of the Osaka Expo, is now open to the public (reservations required). The 41-meter-high "Tree of Life" features biological models representing evolution, and the "Underground Sun" displayed at the time has been restored.
Nearby Museums
- The Japan Folk Crafts Museum, Osaka
The museum exhibits folk crafts from across Japan, such as ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, woodwork, and bamboo crafts. Its main feature is showcasing the "beauty of use" found in everyday utensils and fabrics. Several special exhibitions are held throughout the year, allowing visitors to enjoy both domestic and international crafts as well as themed displays. Please note that the museum has summer and winter closure periods, so be sure to check the official website for the latest opening information.
- National Museum of Ethnology
Opened in 1977, the museum was built on the site of the Osaka Expo and functions as a joint research institution for universities, focusing on research, education, and exhibitions. While serving as a hub for scholars, it is also open to the public, making it a unique museum. Exhibitions introduce the world's peoples and cultures both by region and by theme. With a collection of over 340,000 items from around the globe, it is the largest of its kind in Japan. Walking through its vast galleries feels like taking a journey around the world.
Sports and Gamba Osaka
The park contains stadiums and ball game fields, and if the timing is right, you might be able to watch training sessions of the Japanese soccer club Gamba Osaka.
Refresh at "Banpaku Oyuba" Hot Spring
After walking around, head to the natural hot spring "Banpaku Oyuba" in the park. The facility is well-equipped with outdoor baths, saunas, and bedrock baths. Towel rentals are available, so you can use it casually without bringing anything.
Popular Nearby Spots
- EXPOCITY: Shopping & entertainment complex facility
- NIFREL: New-style aquarium and zoo
- Red Horse Osaka Wheel: Japan's largest Ferris wheel
Access
- Train: Direct access from Osaka Monorail "Banpaku-kinen-koen Station" or "Koen-higashiguchi Station"
FAQ
- Can I rent wheelchairs or baby strollers? → Free rental available. Nursing rooms are also fully equipped.
- Are there places to rest on rainy days? → Rest areas available in both the Natural and Cultural Gardens and Japanese Garden.
- Can elderly people and small children enjoy it? → Since the park is large, check places you want to visit in advance and take breaks while exploring.
Basic Information
Expo '70 Commemorative Park
Address: 1-1 Senri Banpaku-koen, Suita City, Osaka Prefecture
Phone: 06-6877-7387
Official Website: https://www.expo70-park.jp/