14 Must-See Tourist Spots in Osaka’s Expo Commemoration Park

The site of the 1970 World Exposition held in Suita City, Osaka Prefecture, was reopened two years after its closure as "Expo '70 Commemorative Park" and continues to be beloved by many to this day. With highlights like the "Tower of the Sun" and a Japanese garden, as well as a plethora of events, Expo '70 Commemorative Park is a popular destination enjoyed by both adults and children, attracting numerous visitors.

1. Tower of the Sun

The Tower of the Sun is perhaps the most iconic monument associated with the Expo '70. Designed by renowned artist Taro Okamoto, it stands prominently at the entrance of the Expo '70 Commemorative Park, towering approximately 70 meters tall. This monumental structure is hollow inside and was originally used as an exhibition space during the Expo.
Its psychedelic design was groundbreaking and caused quite a sensation at the time. The tower features three distinct faces: the "Golden Face," symbolizing the future; the "Sun Face," representing the present; and the "Black Sun," painted on the back, symbolizing the past. These faces collectively represent the energy of all creation that transcends past, present, and future, connecting to the concept of Amaterasu, the Shinto sun deity. Despite being over 50 years old, the grandeur of this monument remains undiminished. While currently closed for repairs and earthquake-proofing, there is growing anticipation for its reopening.

2. Japanese Garden

Located on the northern side of the park, the Japanese Garden spans an expansive area of approximately 1,300 meters east to west and 200 meters north to south. Constructed as part of Japan's exhibition at the Expo, the garden aimed to showcase the beauty of traditional Japanese landscapes to the world, at a time when their appeal was not widely known internationally.
The garden is divided into three sections, each reflecting the styles of different historical periods: the Heian period, the Edo period, and post-Meiji restoration. It incorporates design elements from famous Japanese gardens such as those in Kyoto and Okayama’s Korakuen, making it a unique and valuable site. The garden also features tea houses and restaurants, providing opportunities for relaxation during your visit. With its seasonal displays of flora, the Japanese Garden is an unmissable attraction for nature lovers.

3. Natural and Cultural Gardens

The pavilions from the Expo were dismantled after its closure, and in their place, a forest was created atop the artificial ground. This forest, known as the Natural and Cultural Gardens, was designed to gradually slope from the forest near the "Tower of the Sun" towards the village-like areas. The eastern side of the tower features a grassy plain, creating a pastoral atmosphere.
Within the gardens, you’ll find unique spots such as the "Forest Stage," a circular grass area approximately 42 meters in diameter adorned with stones representing the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. There’s also "Spring Fountain" and the "Sorado" observation deck, which rises to the height of the surrounding treetops and offers panoramic views of the park.
The Natural and Cultural Gardens, along with the Japanese Garden, comprise the majority of the park’s area, making them ideal for leisurely strolls. Grab a park map and explore a walking course that suits your preferences!

4. Contemporary Art Forest

Located within the Natural and Cultural Gardens, the Contemporary Art Forest features 14 outdoor art installations harmoniously displayed amidst the serene forest. The largest collection of these artworks is around the "Sunny Pond" area, where pieces like A, Dark Clouds, and The Mourning Flower are exhibited. In the "Northern Earth Pond" area, visitors can admire works such as "Empty Cylinder" and We Keep Walking.

5. Expo Fun Bicycle Plaza

The Expo Fun Bicycle Plaza, situated within the Natural and Cultural Gardens, offers a variety of whimsical bicycles, including banana-shaped bikes, rabbit-shaped bikes, and tandem bikes for two riders seated side-by-side. With around 40 different types and a total of 100 bikes, both children and adults are sure to have a great time.
The plaza is divided into sections such as a "toddler area," a circuit course, and a two-wheel course, ensuring that even small children can ride safely.
Admission to the Natural and Cultural Gardens is required to access the plaza, which is included in the park's entrance fee: ¥260 for adults and ¥80 for elementary and middle school students. For the bicycle plaza, an additional fee of ¥500 for 30 minutes (for ages 3 and up) is charged.
Information as of February 2024.

6. Sorado

Over 40 years since its construction, the park’s original plantings have grown into a mature forest. Sorado allows visitors to experience the forest from above, providing a bird’s-eye perspective of the trees. This attraction includes a 19-meter-high observation tower and an aerial walkway, offering a three-dimensional view of the forest's size and health.
The name "Sorado" is a combination of the words "sora" (sky) and "road." Entry is via the Tree Climbing Tower, and the walkway is one-way. From the observation tower, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view, with the autumn foliage being particularly stunning from this vantage point.

7. Yattane Tree

The "Yattane Tree" is a playground area featuring two large slides and various play structures designed for toddlers and children. The two large slides, about 12 meters tall and 30 meters long, extend like octopus tentacles from the central "Acorn Dome." This dome symbolizes the acorn seeds donated from around the world during the Expo '70 and represents the wish for children to grow up healthy and full of energy.
The Yattane Tree is located in the "World Forest" area, near the park entrance. This area is free to use, so you only need to pay the park entrance fee.

8. Park Golf at Expo Park

The "Park Golf Expo Park" is a golf course located within the park. Park golf, a less familiar term to some, is a simplified version of golf played in a park setting. Unlike traditional golf, the distances between holes are short—under 100 meters—making it easy for anyone to enjoy.
The rules are simple: hit the ball from the designated spot and compete based on the number of shots it takes to sink the ball into the hole. The course offers a 9-hole half-round and an 18-hole full-round. While easy to play, the courses feature various challenges, such as bunkers and slopes, adding an element of strategy and fun.

9. Genki Onsen "Expo Oyuba"

Adjacent to the Park Golf Expo Park is "Genki Onsen Expo Oyuba," a 100% natural hot spring facility perfect for a day trip. The spring water is sourced from 700 meters underground, with a sodium-chloride composition (neutral, low-tonicity, low-temperature). Facilities include large open-air baths, a variety of specialty baths, saunas, and stone baths, along with a restaurant. It’s a popular spot to relax and rejuvenate after exploring the Expo '70 Commemorative Park.
Enjoy the brown, cloudy hot spring water in baths like the large open-air "Seven Changes of the Grand Bath" and the "Earth Bath" with 100% pure spring water. Other facilities include esthetic baths, seated jet baths, high-concentration carbonated baths, and the daily "Festival Bath." Three types of saunas are also available.
Inside the facility, the dining area "Tsurukame TSURUKAME" offers lunch and dinner, as well as café and bar options.

10. Expo Tennis Garden

The Expo Tennis Garden is a tennis facility operated by Mizuno Sports, hosting over 50 tournaments and events throughout the year. The facility includes 32 outdoor courts and 4 indoor courts, with 10 of the outdoor courts featuring artificial turf. All courts, both outdoor and indoor, are equipped with lighting, allowing for night play.
The Sports House provides showers and lockers, and there’s also a restaurant inside, so you don’t need to worry about meals. If arriving by car, park at the "West No. 1 Parking Lot" of Expo '70 Commemorative Park, then walk about 5 minutes to the garden.

11. Nordic Walking Course

Nordic walking is a sport originating in Finland, where participants walk designated courses using two poles. Expo '70 Commemorative Park features the first officially recognized Nordic walking course in Asia, established in 2012. The park also provides pole rentals.
Using a map, you can enjoy walking courses of your preferred length while admiring the park’s gardens and landscapes. During busy periods, be mindful of others by walking in a single line on narrow paths or temporarily refraining from using the poles to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.

12. Expo '70 Commemorative Park Autumn Festival

During the autumn foliage season, the "Expo '70 Commemorative Park Autumn Festival" is held at the Japanese Garden's "Han'an and Banri-an" area. These areas, typically closed to the public, are open twice a year during the autumn festival and the plum blossom season, making it a unique opportunity to visit.
The garden features a variety of trees, including rare species like the Hakusan Viburnum and Kurokawa Holly. There’s also a "Suikinkutsu" water harp, where the sound of water resembles the notes of a koto (Japanese harp). Sipping tea and enjoying sweets in this serene setting adds a special touch to the experience.

13. EXPOCITY

EXPOCITY is a large commercial complex located on the southern side of Expo '70 Commemorative Park, across from the monorail. It was developed by Mitsui Fudosan in 2015 on the site of the former "Expo Land" amusement park. The centerpiece is the "Lalaport EXPOCITY" shopping mall, which houses over 300 stores.
The area also includes eight entertainment facilities, such as an aquarium, Pokémon EXPO Gym, a transparent Ferris wheel, and a mobile amusement park. The "Pop Jet" fountains, where water sprays from the ground, are especially popular with children who enjoy getting soaked on hot days.

14. Forest Bistro Grill Minpaku

Forest Bistro Grill Minpaku is a café and restaurant located inside the National Museum of Ethnology. It offers family-friendly menu items such as hamburgers and omelets, along with kids’ plates. The restaurant also features homemade pasta and desserts, making it a great choice for couples as well.
It’s a 15-minute walk from "Koen Higashiguchi Station" on the Osaka Monorail, or about a 20-minute walk from "Bampaku Kinen Koen Station."

Summary of Attractions within Expo '70 Commemorative Park

Even after nearly half a century, Expo '70 Commemorative Park remains a vibrant and captivating destination. Filled with facilities and events that appeal to people of all ages, it’s a must-visit area for anyone traveling to Osaka.