The National Museum of Art, Osaka opened in Expo'70 Commemorative Park in 1977 with the aim of collecting, storing, and exhibiting works, primarily contemporary art from Japan and abroad, as well as conducting related research and projects. In 2004, it moved to Nakanoshima, Osaka, and a new, completely underground museum was constructed.
The building's exterior was designed by Argentine-born Cesar Pelli, and is inspired by the vitality of bamboo and the development and growth of contemporary art. The museum houses a collection of approximately 8,200 works, and hosts a variety of exhibitions from time to time.