Overview
The Tower of the Sun is a 70-meter tall monumental sculpture created by Japanese avant-garde artist Taro Okamoto for the 1970 Osaka World Expo. Located in Expo '70 Commemorative Park, this iconic structure has become one of Osaka's most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of post-war Japanese optimism and innovation.
Architecture and Symbolism
The tower features four distinct faces: the Golden Face at the top (representing the future), the Sun Face at the front (present), the Black Sun at the back (past), and the Underground Sun (spiritual world). The interior houses the spectacular Tree of Life installation, a multi-story structure depicting the evolution of life from primordial organisms to humans, which visitors consistently describe as breathtaking and awe-inspiring.
Visitor Experience
Exterior viewing is free and available throughout the park, with visitors noting the tower's impressive scale and presence. Interior access requires advance online reservation (¥720 for adults) and includes a guided tour through multiple floors showcasing the Tree of Life, evolutionary exhibits, and original sketches. Many visitors report the interior experience exceeds expectations, with the Tree of Life being compared to Studio Ghibli aesthetics.
Practical Information
The tower is accessible via Osaka Monorail (Banpaku Kinen Koen Station). Advance reservations are mandatory for interior access and can fill up quickly. Photography inside requires renting a special smartphone case for ¥500. The surrounding park offers beautiful grounds perfect for picnics and leisurely walks, with seasonal cherry blossoms in spring.
