A masterpiece of modern architecture born from innovative ideas
Located in the southeast of Australia, Sydney is the world's most populous city. Its beloved symbol is the Sydney Opera House (hereafter referred to as the Opera House), which was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2007.
This structure, located at Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbor, is characterized by its unique shape reminiscent of a white shell or a sail of a sailing ship, and is popular as one of the most popular photo spots in Sydney. Inside the Opera House, in addition to the opera house, there is a concert hall, a drama theater, a studio theater, etc., and it is the center of culture and art in Sydney.
Features of the Sydney Opera House
Among the many World Heritage Sites around the world, the Opera House has a somewhat unique character.
For example, the reason it was recognized as a World Heritage Site is one of them. Currently, there are 10 criteria for World Heritage sites, but the majority of properties that are actually registered as World Heritage sites meet multiple criteria. However, the Opera House was recognized for registration based on only one criterion: "It is a masterpiece that represents the creative talent of mankind."
Another unique point about the building is that it is a relatively new one, having been completed in 1973. It is not difficult to imagine how the unforgettable beauty of the structure, once seen, helped push it towards being registered as a World Heritage Site, which could be called "unusual."
Another characteristic of the Opera House is that it took 14 years to build the building. Construction began in 1959 based on a basic design by Danish architect Jorn Utzon, but the construction was difficult due to the extremely unique shape of the roof. The total construction cost ballooned several times over the initial estimate, and when the ruling party changed in 1965, construction was halted due to budgetary approval. Utzon withdrew from the project, and other unexpected circumstances occurred. After that, several architects collaborated and the building was completed in 1973.
Although the Opera House has a complicated background, it is now highly regarded as one of the greatest masterpieces of 20th century architecture. If you visit Sydney, be sure to experience its beauty for yourself.
Morning, noon, and night. Enjoy the beautiful, ever-changing scenery
To fully enjoy the beauty of the Opera House, we recommend changing the location and time to see its different faces.
For example, Mrs. Macquarie's Point, located on the east side of the inlet around the cape where the Opera House is located, is a viewing spot that overlooks the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The view of the large bridge, which is about 1,149 meters long, stretching deep into the World Heritage Site is so beautiful that it makes you want to say, "This is Sydney!"
In addition, the "Kirribilli" district, which spreads out across the river from the Opera House, is a spot where you can see the Opera House from the front. You can enjoy a slightly different view from the sideways view of the Opera House that you often see in photos.
Of course, the scenery of Sydney, where the Opera House is located, changes depending on the time of day: in the morning when it is illuminated by soft sunlight, in the daytime when the distinctive design of the Opera House stands out, at dramatic dusk, and at night when it is beautifully lit up...
The Sydney scenery, centered around the Opera House, is very photogenic, so we recommend walking around with a camera in hand looking for your favorite view spots!
If you want to experience the charm of the opera house, go inside
After enjoying the beautiful exterior of the Opera House, be sure to head inside.
Sydney Opera House is the cultural epicenter of Sydney, with over 1,500 performances taking place every year. With a wide variety of shows, from opera and ballet to classical concerts and children's shows, you're sure to find something you like.
If you want to learn more about the architecture of the opera house, we recommend joining an interior tour. On a guided tour of the building, you can learn about the unique history and stories surrounding the opera house. There is also a 30-minute Japanese tour, so even those who are not good at English can rest assured (please check the official website for information on the schedule).
In addition, the Opera House also has restaurants such as the Opera Bar, where you can enjoy Australian cuisine and seafood on the terrace overlooking the sea, and the beautiful formal dining restaurant Bennelong. Being able to immerse yourself in the world heritage site while enjoying a delicious meal is a unique way to enjoy the Opera House.
Sydney Opera House
| address | ： | Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000 |
|---|---|---|
| access | ： | Approximately 14.9km from Sydney Airport (approximately 18 minutes by car) |
| World Heritage Registration Year | ： | 2007 |
| Types of World Heritage Sites | ： | cultural heritage |
| Registration Criteria | ： | It is a masterpiece of human creative genius. |
Comment
The Opera House shows different faces depending on the time and place you visit, but the World Heritage Site's appearance from the sea is also magnificent! Sydney Harbour, also known as "the most beautiful bay in the world", offers a variety of cruise activities, so be sure to join us!
*Some content was updated on June 8, 2022.
The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
