The 2025 World Expo, also known as Expo 2025 Osaka, will be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025! Following the successful Expo in 1970, Osaka once again becomes the focal point of this global event, with participation expected from over 150 countries and tens of millions of visitors.
The aim of Expo 2025 is to “attract talent and resources through the Expo, and harness this momentum to strengthen Osaka, the Kansai region, and Japan’s long-term development.” The central theme is “People’s Living Lab – A Laboratory for a Future Society.” Even before the event begins, participants from all over the world will be gathering to share solutions to global challenges, showcasing cutting-edge technology and collective wisdom both within and beyond the venue. These efforts contribute to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Japan’s national strategy Society 5.0.
Expo 2025 Theme & Vision
The theme of Expo 2025 Osaka is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” aiming to highlight global cooperation and the creation of a coexistent society. The core concepts are “Connection,” “Diversity,” and “Coexistence.” With technology and innovation as the foundation, the Expo will explore solutions to global challenges and promote sustainable development. Exhibits will cover a range of fields including smart cities, environmental technology, artificial intelligence, and healthcare—presenting future-oriented, inclusive, and sustainable solutions from around the world.
Official Mascot: “MYAKU-MYAKU”
The official mascot of Expo 2025 Osaka, MYAKU-MYAKU, is a mysterious creature made of cells and water, symbolizing the continuity of life and culture. Its name is derived from the Japanese word “myakumyaku” (脈々), meaning “continuously”—representing the hope that wisdom, technology, and culture will be passed on to the future.
MYAKU-MYAKU features bright red and blue colors—red representing proliferating cells and blue symbolizing Osaka’s identity as the “City of Water.” The character has a soft, fluid shape, connecting nature and the future, in line with the Expo’s theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” Though it mimics human form, its true identity remains a mystery. Known for its transformative powers and love for interacting with all living beings, MYAKU-MYAKU embodies the values of connection, diversity, and coexistence at the heart of the Expo.
8 Unmissable Highlights of Expo 2025 Osaka
1. 17-Meter Gundam Model
The “GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION” will showcase a brand-new 17-meter-tall Gundam, making its debut in the Kansai region. Striking a pose with its arm outstretched toward the future, the Gundam symbolizes humanity’s aspirations for space exploration. Alongside the towering model, visitors can enjoy virtual reality experiences, light shows, and live performances—a dream come true for Gundam fans and a powerful symbol of futuristic technology.
2. Grand Roof (Ooya-ne)
Another iconic attraction is the Grand Roof, the world’s largest wooden walkway designed by architect Sou Fujimoto. With a diameter of 615 meters, height ranging from 12 to 20 meters, and covering 60,000 square meters, the circular structure incorporates traditional Japanese architectural techniques using cedar and cypress. Inspired by Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera temple, the Grand Roof functions as a central promenade—offering both shade and scenic views, blending Japan’s heritage with modern design.
3. Future Laboratory
With its concept of being a “Living Lab” for future society, the Expo integrates cutting-edge green energy, digital tech, auto-translation, and 5G to overcome barriers of language, culture, and geography. The pavilions use AR and VR to create immersive and interactive experiences for both in-person and online visitors. This lab showcases how future technologies could reshape society—making it an unmissable experience for tech enthusiasts.
4. Water Stage
The Expo’s Water World Area will feature a stunning Water Stage spanning 8,800 square meters, hosting performances that combine fountains, projection mapping, and music. The EXPO Hall’s outer wall will light up with projections, and visitors can enjoy concerts, traditional performing arts, and parades. This multisensory celebration will showcase Japan’s vibrant culture and artistic flair.
5. EXPO International Exchange Hall
This hall is inspired by ancient international exchanges, with architecture that blends natural elements and emphasizes connections to the ocean and land. Its ribbon-like roof design reflects the geography and wind patterns of Kansai. By channeling the forces of wind, water, and light, the hall becomes a symbol of a dynamic future, offering a lively, nature-integrated atmosphere for visitors.
6. EXPO Theater Hall
The EXPO Theater will host a variety of cultural and tech-integrated performances—including music, dance, theater, and multimedia art. Its golden domed roof and bold, rough-edged design nod to the 1970 Osaka Expo’s “Tower of the Sun.” The circular stage and seating create a celebratory space symbolizing “Life Shining into the Future,” making it a hub of creativity and wonder.
7. Kansai Pavilion
Showcasing the unique charm of the Kansai region, this pavilion is themed “Life Shines Through Kansai’s History and Present.” It highlights regional heritage, innovations, and eco-solutions from nine prefectures: Shiga, Kyoto, Hyogo, Nara, Wakayama, Tottori, Tokushima, Fukui, and Mie. The exterior is covered with a white membrane using projection and papercut designs, while inside, each prefecture has its own zone to present local crafts, history, and tourism attractions. It’s a must-visit for those interested in Kansai culture and heritage.
8. Osaka Health & Tech Pavilion – Nest for Reborn
The “Nest for Reborn” pavilion focuses on rebirth, combining perspectives on life and health. It showcases future health management technologies and lifestyles, offering interactive experiences such as meeting your future self (via virtual avatars) and understanding how personal health data could shape tomorrow’s cities. Visitors will also explore future entertainment, food culture, and innovations from Osaka’s SMEs and startups—perfect for those interested in health tech and futuristic living.
