A Cultural Hub Designed by Tadao Ando
The building was designed by internationally renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Its distinctive architecture and cultural programs make it one of the notable destinations in Osaka’s Bay Area.
From Suntory Museum to Osaka Culturarium
Opening as Suntory Museum [Tempozan]
The facility opened on November 3, 1994, as the Suntory Museum [Tempozan], as part of a project commemorating the 90th anniversary of Suntory’s founding.
While the Suntory Museum in Tokyo focused on traditional Japanese artworks, the Tempozan museum primarily collected and exhibited modern and contemporary art, including works and exhibitions related to artists such as Claude Monet, Alphonse Mucha, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.
Another distinctive feature was its collection and display of unique materials, including posters from around the world.
IMAX Theater
The museum also featured an IMAX Theater with a large 20-by-28-meter screen. It became a popular venue where visitors could experience the appeal of large-format visual art and entertainment.
Changes in Management
As visitor numbers declined and maintaining the facility became increasingly difficult, Suntory Holdings decided in August 2009 to close the museum. The facility officially closed on December 26, 2010.
Afterward, the land and buildings were transferred free of charge to Osaka City, bringing Suntory’s operation of the facility to an end.
Renewal and New Developments
Osaka Tempozan Special Exhibition Gallery
In 2012, the facility was reused as the Osaka Tempozan Special Exhibition Gallery. High-profile exhibitions were held there, including the “Tutankhamun Exhibition” and an exhibition of original artwork from the manga series ONE PIECE.
Becoming Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan
In February 2013, the facility was renamed Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan. From April of the same year, Orix Real Estate entered into an operating agreement for the facility.
In 2023, management was transferred to the Japan-China Cultural and Economic Business Association, leading to an even broader range of cultural activities and exhibitions.
Exhibitions and Cultural Partnerships
Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan works in cooperation with nearby attractions such as Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and Tempozan Marketplace, contributing to the development of tourism and cultural activities throughout the Osaka Bay Area.
The facility hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, including art exhibitions and museum-style exhibitions, offering visitors opportunities to discover new ideas, cultures, and forms of artistic expression.
Architecture and Design
The museum was completed in 1994 and designed by the world-famous architect Tadao Ando.
The building has nine floors above ground, with part of the building reaching ten floors, and one basement level. Its striking exterior creates an impressive contrast with the blue sky over Osaka Bay.
Facilities and Uses
Gallery Spaces
The main gallery spaces are located on the 4th and 5th floors and are used for a variety of exhibitions.
Other Facilities
The facility includes a lecture room, IMAX Theater with seating for 446 people, museum shop, café restaurant, lounge, and Mermaid Plaza waterfront space.
With facilities suitable for seminars, conferences, exhibitions, and other events, the complex is also used by a wide range of companies and organizations.
Its activities extend beyond introducing Japanese culture. Taking advantage of Osaka’s international character, the facility also provides opportunities for diverse cultural exchange and international cultural activities.
Architectural Overview
Completion: 1994
Architect: Tadao Ando
Scale: 9 floors above ground, partly 10 floors, plus 1 basement level
Structure: Steel-reinforced concrete (SRC)
Total floor area: 13,491 m²
Location: 1-5-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka City, Osaka 552-0022, Japan
Access
Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan is conveniently located in the Osaka Bay Area.
Osaka Metro Chuo Line: Approximately a 5-minute walk from Osakako Station.
A Cultural Destination in Osaka Bay
Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan has evolved from its origins as the Suntory Museum into a cultural facility offering a diverse program of exhibitions and events for visitors from Japan and around the world.
Beyond its role as an exhibition venue, the facility continues to strengthen its presence as a cultural hub for the Osaka Bay Area. Combined with nearby attractions such as Kaiyukan and Tempozan Harbor Village, it offers visitors another way to experience Osaka through art, architecture, and cultural exchange.