Expo 2025 Osaka Opens Its Doors

Expo 2025 Osaka, officially known as the World Expo 2025, has opened to the public and will run until October 13, 2025, under the forward-looking theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” The event is being held on Yumeshima, a man-made island in Osaka Bay, and marks Japan’s third time hosting a World Expo—previously held in Osaka in 1970 and in Aichi in 2005.

The Expo is envisioned as a platform to tackle global challenges through innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, aligning closely with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It aims to serve as a testing ground for future technologies, smart city infrastructure, and new ideas that address healthcare, climate change, aging populations, and digital transformation.

A Landmark Structure and Vision

At the heart of the Expo site stands a breathtaking architectural centerpiece designed by Sou Fujimoto—a massive circular wooden structure spanning 700 meters in diameter. This symbolic “ring” encircles the central area of the Expo and is both a gathering space and a metaphor for unity, sustainability, and harmony between humanity and nature.

The Expo site itself is designed as a “People’s Living Lab,” where visitors can experience prototypes of the future in real-time, including advanced mobility systems, zero-emission transport, hydrogen-powered infrastructure, and interactive AI-driven experiences.

Global Participation

More than 160 countries and regions are participating, alongside numerous international organizations and private sector innovators. Each national pavilion offers a unique perspective on how to build a better future, blending cultural identity with cutting-edge design and technology.

Highlighted pavilions include:

Spain – A creative and sustainable space by ENORME Studio, Néstor Montenegro, and Smart and Green Design
Portugal – Featuring Kengo Kuma’s signature natural material aesthetics
Switzerland – Designed by Manuel Herz, focusing on health and well-being
France – Created by Coldefy and Carlo Ratti, blending art and AI
Italy – A vision of regenerative architecture by Mario Cucinella
Netherlands – A circular economy-focused design by RAU
Saudi Arabia – A futuristic, immersive pavilion by Foster + Partners
Bahrain – Minimalist elegance from Lina Ghotmeh
Japan – Showcasing smart technology and local traditions by Nikken Sekkei
China – A blend of innovation and heritage from China Architecture Design Group

Other remarkable installations include the Ocean Dome by Shigeru Ban—crafted from recyclable materials to raise awareness of marine conservation—and the serene Forest of Tranquility by SANAA, a meditative escape inspired by Japanese forests.

A Look to the Future

Expo 2025 Osaka is expected to attract over 28 million visitors during its six-month run, making it one of the most significant global events of the decade. It also acts as a stepping stone toward Japan’s broader goals in technology, environmental leadership, and international collaboration leading into the 2030s.