Expo 2025 Osaka: A Grand Opening to a Global Celebration

Expo 2025 Osaka: A Grand Opening to a Global Celebration

On April 13, 2025, Expo 2025 Osaka officially opened its doors on Yumeshima Island, marking the beginning of a six-month global showcase under the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives." With participation from over 160 countries and regions, the Expo promises a diverse array of innovations, cultural exhibits, and architectural marvels.​

The opening ceremony was a grand affair, attended by dignitaries including Emperor Naruhito and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. A highlight of the event was a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony by a choir of over 10,000 voices, symbolizing unity and hope for the future.​

A central architectural feature of the Expo is the "Grand Ring," a massive wooden structure encircling the exhibition grounds. Spanning approximately 2 kilometers in circumference and reaching up to 20 meters in height, the Grand Ring serves as the main promenade for the Expo site, offering visitors panoramic views and shelter from the elements.​

Visitors can explore a myriad of pavilions showcasing cutting-edge technologies such as robots, flying cars, and artificial hearts. Cultural exhibits feature pop culture icons like Hello Kitty and Gundam, while Ukraine’s pavilion presents immersive wartime experiences. The Expo also boasts unique attractions like the world’s longest sushi conveyor belt and a Martian meteorite display.​

Despite some challenges, including construction delays affecting several national pavilions and ticket sales falling short of targets, the Expo has already sold about 9 million tickets and aims to attract 28 million visitors by its close in mid-October.​

The Expo's mascot, Myaku-Myaku, a quirky blue creature, has captured public attention and become a symbol of the event's spirit.​

As Osaka hosts its second World Expo since 1970, the city invites the world to engage with innovations that envision a harmonious and sustainable future.