A World of Art Inside the Tower
From the outside, the Tower of the Sun is already an unforgettable sight. However, its interior offers an equally extraordinary experience, resembling an enormous art installation from another world.
The Three Faces of the Tower
The tower’s most distinctive feature is its three faces. The “Face of the Sun” on the front represents the present, while the “Golden Face” at the top represents the future. The “Black Sun” on the rear represents the past.
Together, these three faces symbolize the flow of time and the cycle of life, reflecting Taro Okamoto’s distinctive artistic philosophy.
The Underground “Sun of the Underworld”
During Expo ’70, a fourth face called the “Sun of the Underworld” was displayed in an underground exhibition area. It represented humanity’s primal prayers and spiritual world.
After the Expo ended, the original sculpture disappeared. It was later recreated in time for the reopening of the tower’s interior to the public in 2018, once again attracting considerable attention.
The Tree of Life: A Journey Through Evolution
At the center of the Tower of the Sun’s interior stands a huge artwork known as the “Tree of Life.” This monumental installation represents the process of biological evolution.
From the emergence of the earliest forms of life through the evolution of humanity and toward the future, the story of life is presented as a vast three-dimensional work of art. Visitors can experience this dramatic vision of life and evolution from within the tower itself.
Past, Present, and Future
The interior exhibition is structured across three levels—underground, ground level, and above ground—each associated with a different concept.
The underground area focuses on the origins and mysteries of life. The ground-level space represents the energy and harmony of modern society, while the upper area symbolizes the progress and possibilities of the future.
Moving through these spaces allows visitors to experience an artistic interpretation of humanity’s history, the present world, and its possible future.
From Expo ’70 to the Present Day
The Tower of the Sun was constructed as a symbol of the theme of Expo ’70: “Progress and Harmony for Mankind.” It was originally expected to be dismantled after the exposition ended.
However, its artistic significance led to growing calls for its preservation, and the tower was ultimately retained. It has since become one of the most recognizable landmarks associated with Osaka and Expo ’70.
Preservation and Restoration
Over the years, the tower has undergone restoration work to address deterioration caused by weather and aging. In 2018, the interior exhibition was reopened to the public, allowing visitors once again to experience the artistic world inside the tower.
In 2020, the Tower of the Sun was registered as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, further recognizing its cultural significance.
A Major Tourist Attraction in Osaka
Today, the Tower of the Sun is one of Osaka’s most distinctive tourist attractions, welcoming visitors from Japan and around the world.
Inside the tower, visitors can experience the Tree of Life and other artworks at close range, offering a unique opportunity to encounter the intersection of contemporary art, history, and architecture.
Enjoy the Surrounding Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
The tower is surrounded by the expansive Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, where visitors can also enjoy nature throughout the seasons.
In spring, cherry blossoms create beautiful scenery, while autumn brings colorful foliage. The park is also well suited to walking and picnicking, and various museums and cultural facilities are located throughout the grounds.
Combining a visit to the Tower of the Sun with the surrounding park makes it possible to enjoy art, history, culture, and nature in a single destination.
A Cultural Legacy for Future Generations
The Tower of the Sun is more than a tourist attraction. It has become an important symbol of Japanese contemporary art and culture.
Its unconventional design and powerful artistic message have continued to influence and inspire people across generations. Through ongoing preservation and use, the tower is expected to remain an important cultural legacy for future generations.
When visiting Osaka, take the opportunity to encounter this unique work of art and experience the extraordinary world envisioned by Taro Okamoto.