Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, located in Suita City, Osaka Prefecture, is a sprawling public park that serves as a lasting tribute to the 1970 Japan World Exposition (Expo ’70). Spanning approximately 260 hectares, the park offers visitors a harmonious blend of cultural landmarks, lush gardens, and recreational facilities.
Expo ’70 was a landmark event, attracting over 64 million visitors and featuring pavilions from 76 countries. The exposition’s theme, “Progress and Harmony for Mankind,” is encapsulated in the park’s design and attractions. Following the exposition, the site was transformed into a commemorative park to preserve its legacy and provide a space for public enjoyment.
Key Attractions
- Tower of the Sun: Designed by artist Tarō Okamoto, this iconic 70-meter-high structure served as the symbol of Expo ’70. The tower features three distinct faces representing the past, present, and future. The museum inside explores the history and significance of the tower, offering visitors a deeper understanding of its artistic and cultural relevance.
- Natural and Cultural Gardens: Covering approximately 98 hectares, these gardens offer expansive lawns, wooded areas, and seasonal flower displays, providing a serene environment for relaxation and recreation.
- Japanese Garden: Spanning about 26 hectares, this meticulously landscaped garden showcases traditional Japanese horticultural artistry, featuring ponds, tea houses, and seasonal flora.
- National Museum of Ethnology: Located within the park, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that explore cultures from around the world, offering educational insights into global diversity.
- Japan Folk Crafts Museum: This museum showcases a diverse collection of Japanese and international crafts, including ceramics and textiles, emphasizing the beauty found in everyday artifacts. Visitors can appreciate the artistry and functionality that characterize these traditional crafts.
- Expo ’70 Pavilion: Housed in the former Steel Pavilion from the 1970 World Exposition, the Expo ’70 Pavilion offers an extensive collection of models, posters, and memorabilia from the event. It provides insights into the innovations and cultural exchanges that took place during the exposition.
Seasonal Highlights
The park is renowned for its seasonal beauty:
- Cherry Blossoms: With approximately 5,500 cherry trees of 12 varieties, the park is celebrated as one of Japan’s top cherry blossom viewing spots. The blossoms typically peak in early April, attracting numerous visitors.
- Plum Blossoms: In late winter to early spring, the park’s plum grove bursts into color, featuring around 600 plum trees in various hues, marking the arrival of spring.
Visitor Information
- Access: The park is easily accessible via public transportation. It’s located near Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station on the Osaka Monorail Main Line.
- Facilities: In addition to its gardens and museums, the park offers recreational areas, walking trails, and seasonal events, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
- Opening Hours: The park is generally open from 9:30 am to 5:00pm and is closed on Wednesday and during New Year Holiday.
- Admission Fees: The various key attractions above have their own admission fees. More info is available at the official website.
Also in the Area: Expo City
Just a short walk from the park’s main entrance is Expo City, one of the largest multi-purpose shopping and entertainment complexes in the Kansai region. This modern development was built on part of the original Expo ’70 site and is a great place to continue your day out after exploring the park.
At the heart of Expo City is LaLaport EXPOCITY, a large shopping mall packed with local and international fashion brands, souvenir shops, and plenty of cafés and restaurants offering both Japanese and Western-style meals.
One of the most eye-catching features of Expo City is the Redhorse Osaka Wheel, Japan’s tallest Ferris wheel at 123 metres. The ride offers panoramic views over the park and surrounding areas, and the gondolas even feature transparent floors for those feeling adventurous.
Other attractions within the complex include:
- Orbi Osaka (a nature-themed interactive attraction produced with BBC Earth – may vary by season)
- NIFREL, a unique aquarium and interactive animal experience curated by the team behind Osaka’s Kaiyukan
- 109 Cinemas for a modern movie-going experience
- Entertainment centres such as a gaming arcade and kids’ play zones
Whether you’re travelling with family or just want to unwind with some shopping and sightseeing, Expo City makes for a perfect addition to your Expo ’70 Park visit.
Official Websites:
Expo Park: https://www.expo70-park.jp/languages/english/
Expo City: https://mitsui-shopping-park.com/lalaport/expocity/en/
