What is the Tower of the Sun?

The Tower of the Sun is a symbolic structure originally created for the 1970 Osaka World Expo by Japanese artist Taro Okamoto. It stands as a representation of human evolution, culture, and energy, with its distinct design featuring three different faces.

Who designed the Tower of the Sun?

The Tower of the Sun was designed by Taro Okamoto, a renowned Japanese artist known for his avant-garde and modernist works that often blend abstract forms with deep cultural symbolism.

What are the symbolic elements of the Tower of the Sun?

The Tower of the Sun features three faces that represent different aspects of human progress. The Golden Face at the top symbolizes the future, the Face of the Sun in the middle represents the present, and the Black Sun at the back stands for the past.

Can visitors go inside the Tower of the Sun?

Yes, visitors can go inside the Tower of the Sun. Inside, there is an exhibition called the Tree of Life, which illustrates the evolution of life on Earth from the beginning of time to modern-day species.

How can I get to the Tower of the Sun?

The Tower of the Sun can be easily accessed via the Osaka Monorail, getting off at the Bampaku-Kinen-Koen Station. The park is a short walk from the station, and the tower is visible from afar.

Osaka

Tower of the Sun

4.6 (8207)Cultural LandmarkTourist AttractionMuseumPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

The Tower of the Sun is an iconic monument located in Expo '70 Commemorative Park, Osaka. Created by the artist Taro Okamoto for the 1970 World Expo, this towering structure stands 70 meters tall and remains one of Japan's most distinctive pieces of public art.

Its striking design features three faces, each symbolizing different aspects of time. The "Golden Face" at the top represents the future, the "Face of the Sun" in the middle symbolizes the present, and a hidden face on the back represents the past.

Inside, the Tower contains an exhibition that explores the evolution of life, displaying models of various creatures along a central "Tree of Life." Visitors can walk through the interior, discovering how Okamoto's vision intertwined art, science, and human history. The bold design and symbolism of the tower have made it a cultural icon, attracting both art enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Hours

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 6-6877-7387

Website

taiyounotou-expo70.jp

Overview

Address

Japan, 〒565-0826 Osaka, Suita, Senribanpakukōen, 1−１太陽の塔地下 1階

Hours

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Traveler reviews

You can buy tickets in advance from their web site. Tickets to the tower already include entrance ticket to the park, so you can skip buying it in the entrance. But if you've bought it, they return money in ticket office of the Tower. The Tower itself is really unusual and worth visiting. Sadly, you can make photos only in the first floor. It would also be nice to add translation of materials in the exhibition in English.

natasha malysheva

Apr 3, 2026

An interesting giant art piece, it's hard to tell from the photos just how enormous the tower is. Unlike other tall buildings which are very... "building-like", the humanoid shape makes it more interesting to look at, and really felt like you are standing next to a giant human. The tree of life inside is also worth seeing, overall a great experience.

Matthew Tung

Jan 26, 2026

Finally visited! I’ve been obsessed with this tower for years. You can go inside, but you MUST reserve a ticket at least a day ahead of time. There are no same-day ticket sales. Okamoto Taro’s sculptures inside are absolutely stunning

ALi

Nov 19, 2025

Very attractive in autumn, especially during maple season. If you want to avoid tourists and enjoy an easy stroll, this is a perfect place to visit.

Wade Lin

Dec 1, 2025

I visited on a weekday late morning and, luckily, was able to buy a ticket on the spot. I found the moody music and images a bit dated but absolutely worth it, if only to have the chance to see the interior structure, especially the arms. I never quite understood this tower, but became quite fond of it as the day progressed, and enjoyed seeing it as the light softened. If you can, do plan to stay into the evening to see the holiday illuminations. Tip: The route involves a climb up an interior stairway, 145 steps spread across 6 floors, and reaching just about halfway up the tower, then a descent down a different, more narrow stairwell. There is an elevator but it seems access may be by reservation.