Expo’70 Commemorative Park | Review by wendy

When visiting Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Osaka, the Tower of the Sun really shouldn’t be missed! This enormous artwork, designed by Japanese artist Taro Okamoto, was the symbol of the theme pavilion at the 1970 Osaka Expo. Towering over the center of the park, it still has a powerful visual impact even after all these years.

What makes it even more special is that you can now visit the inside of the Tower of the Sun instead of just admiring it from the outside! Once inside, you can experience Taro Okamoto’s imaginative art world up close. It’s completely different from simply taking photos outside.

However, you need to make a reservation in advance to go inside! If you’re planning to visit Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, remember to check the tour times ahead of time. Otherwise, you’ll only be able to take photos outside when you arrive, which would be a bit of a shame〜

Nakanoshima is located between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers. It's a rare waterfront oasis in central Osaka and is also considered one of the city's signature “Aqua Metropolis Osaka” landscapes.

Walking along the riverbanks, you can enjoy city views created by the rivers and the high-rises on both sides. It's relaxing and comfortable. When the weather is nice, the surrounding buildings are reflected on the water, creating an especially beautiful blend of city and nature.

If you're planning a day trip around central Osaka, you can also visit attractions such as the Nakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka and the Osaka Science Museum. Take a leisurely walk through Nakanoshima and experience a side of Osaka that's different from its bustling shopping districts.

While visiting Osaka, I explored Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street and also stopped by Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street is about 2.6 kilometers long and is one of Japan's well-known long shopping streets. It's lined with a dazzling variety of food, souvenirs, and general merchandise stores, making it fun to browse as you walk.

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. Once you pass through the torii gate, the liveliness of the shopping street gives way to the distinctive tranquility of a shrine. The old trees, traditional architecture, and solemn shrine buildings all have a strong sense of history.

Unfortunately, renovation work was underway during this visit, and some areas were under construction, which was a little disappointing. Still, if you're planning to visit Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, it's worth stopping by to experience the atmosphere of local Osaka life and history.