World Expos are usually massive collaborative events, where innovative technologies and solutions are presented for the world to see. Many innovations such as the elevator, and the telephone, and concepts like electric cars and IC chips were all presented at various World Expos around the world. Japan has hosted two World Expos in the past, Expo 1970 in Osaka and Expo 2004 in Aichi. In 2025, Osaka will play host to another edition of this grand event, bringing the international community back to Japan.
Let’s learn a bit more about what to expect from Expo 2025.
The Expo 2025
The Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai (from April 13th, 2025 to October 13th, 2025) is an event aimed at bringing together people and technologies to address the challenges that the world is likely to face in the coming years. It will serve as a platform where countries, corporations, and governments can collaborate and share their wisdom, insights, and innovative solutions on matters such as sustainability, regional economics, and the evolution of society in the future.
The 2025 Expo will take place on an artificial island known as Yumeshima, located near the Osaka waterfront. One of the main highlights of this venue is that it takes advantage of Osaka’s proximity to the Seto Inland Sea, and will allow visitors to feel connected with the sea and the sky at the same time, symbolizing ‘Unity in Diversity’.
Designing the Future – Photo by Tara Winstead from Pexels
The Big Theme: “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”
The Expo’s theme is a call to action for creating a more sustainable and inclusive world, through innovation, collaboration, and tangible solutions to global challenges. At the heart of this event is the ‘People’s Living Lab,’ where participants can collaborate and participate in activities that can inspire solutions for a better life. The Expo’s theme is further divided into three interconnected sub-themes:
Saving Lives: This sub-theme emphasizes groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, food safety, and environmental sustainability. From tackling global health crises to ensuring access to clean water and nutritious food, it will highlight solutions for safeguarding the well-being of the planet and its people. Japan’s innovations, including research from institutions like Kyoto University’s Center for iPS Cell Research, will play a prominent role.
Empowering Lives: Focused on education, technology, and equality, this sub-theme highlights ways to enable individuals and communities to thrive. Key exhibits will explore gender equality, youth empowerment, social inclusion, and strategies to create environments where everybody has the ability to contribute and succeed. The Women’s Pavilion is another prominent section, with its spotlight on initiatives to empower women and promote social inclusivity globally.
Connecting Lives: Celebrating human connections in today’s interconnected world, this sub-theme explores how cultures, industries, and nations can unite to address common challenges like urbanization and digital transformation. The Kansai Pavilion and Osaka Healthcare Pavilion will showcase innovative urban planning, healthcare solutions, and collaborative technologies for creating harmonious societies.
Sustainable Solutions For An Interconnected Future – Photo by Metamorworks
The Expo and Sustainable Development Goals
Another highlight of Expo 2025 is its alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the planet, and fostering prosperity by 2030. Visitors will encounter exhibits and discussions that showcase innovative solutions and promote international collaboration to advance these objectives.
The Expo will also initiate discussions on Japan’s visionary Society 5.0 strategy, which imagines a human-centered future where technology enhances daily life. Building on Industry 4.0, Society 5.0 will integrate AI, robotics, and the Internet of Things to address global challenges like healthcare, urbanization, and sustainability. Through these themes, the Expo seeks to inspire a future where technology fosters human well-being and global progress.
Myaku Myaku, the official mascot for Expo 2025 is ready to greet you – Photo by Mirko Kuzmanovic
Prepare To Meet Myaku Myaku
Every major Expo has its iconic mascot, and for Osaka Expo 2025, that role is taken by Myaku Myaku – a whimsical, colorful character representing the Expo’s core values of life, water, and interconnectedness. The mascot’s name evokes the idea of continuous flow of energy, innovation, and collaboration that sustains our world. Myakumyaku’s design combines vibrant hues and abstract elements, making it both futuristic and approachable. As the face of the Expo, the mascot has already garnered fans worldwide for its quirky and imaginative appearance. Visitors can expect to see Myakumyaku featured prominently throughout the event as a cheerful guide to the Expo’s themes and experiences.
Osaka, host of The Expo 2025 – Photo by Pichai Sodsai on Unsplash
Osaka in the Spotlight
One of Japan’s largest metro regions, the host city of Osaka has been a key attraction for all visitors to Japan for many years. Although just a short ride away by Shinkansen from Tokyo, it has a totally different vibe and personality compared to almost any other major city in Japan. It is a laid-back, yet lively city, famous for its exciting nightlife, delicious food, and friendly people. It also has a castle which reminds people that Osaka is not all about modern life, but it also has a historic and cultural side. The city offers visitors many opportunities to explore nearby attractions once the day’s work is done. If you need any ideas on what to do while you are here, check out our Osaka-based tours and activities.
View of the venue from above – Photo Credit: Expo 2025
Dates & Tickets
Multiple ticket options are available for purchase, including one-day tickets, weekend tickets, season passes for multiple entries, etc. More details are given on the Expo’s official website. To purchase the tickets or passes, visit the official website, and register for an ExpoID. Once the ExpoID is registered, tickets and passes can be purchased as per your choice. If you would like to visit a specific pavilion or exhibit at the venue, you may want to also book a specific time slot for visiting, so as not to be disappointed when visiting.
Official Expo Website: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en
Expo Dates: April 13th 2025 to October 13th 2025
Venue: Yumeshima, Osaka, Japan
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Osaka Expo
Japan’s third time hosting the World Expo promises to be a grand event, as the world will converge at Osaka to make new connections and build a new future. The Osaka Expo 2025 promises a transformative experience with futuristic exhibits, cultural showcases, and international collaboration. The site itself, set on Yumeshima Island, incorporates water and greenery into its design, symbolizing harmony between humanity and nature. With over 150 countries participating, the event will offer a global stage for innovation and dialogue, aimed at creating a better tomorrow.
Whether you’re fascinated by technology, inspired by culture, or eager to see real-world solutions to global challenges, the Expo will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Start planning your visit early to explore this incredible vision of our future society!
Feature photo credit: xalien
If you’re coming to Osaka to check out the Expo, why not join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local?
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