Discover something new about the world and yourself! Highlights and what to expect from the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

The Expo, short for "International Exposition," was first held in Osaka, Japan, in 1970. Thanks to its location, many have come to know it under the nickname "Osaka Expo”. The Expo is an international event that invites visitors enjoy a look at the latest technologies, envision future societies and immerse in the full joys of Japanese and world cultures. Each Expo has a different theme and concept, with the theme for this year’s Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai as below:

Hosting the Expo in the 21st century makes the pursuit of tackling global issues all the more imperative.
Visitors here are brought to the front step of all new discoveries and chance to immerse in a broader sense of global cultures.
With this comes the birth of new technology, products and sheer chances to glimpse into our days ahead like never before.

No mention of Expo Osaka, Kansai can go without touching on Japan’s national strategy, “Society 5.0”. Society 5.0 refers to a human-centered society that achieves both economic development and the resolution of social issues through a system that highly integrates cyber space (virtual space) and physical space (real space).

Society 5.0 envisions a new society where global challenges are addressed through cutting-edge technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), AI (Artificial Intelligence), robotics, and big data.

As Society 5.0 aims to resolve social issues, it also represents a society where Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been achieved. A glimpse of Society 5.0 his slated to hit the showcase at Expo Osaka, Kansai through the "Future Society Showcase Project”, bringing to life various aspects of this new society.

The event will incorporate the latest technologies and systems from various fields, such as carbon neutrality and digitalization into the venue and exhibits, offering attendees an early chance to experience this new kind of society.

To make the most of the event, here’s a deep dive into the theme and concept behind everything going on at Expo Osaka, Kansai. The theme of the Expo Osaka, Kansai is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives." It emphasizes the idea of each individual contemplating their desired way of life, maximizing their potential, and collaboratively creating a sustainable society that supports these lifestyles within the international community.

For the attendees, this means coming face to face with new social challenges with the latest advances in science and technology to help them realize what “happy life” might really look like for them.

The concept of a "People’s Living Lab" translates to a "Society 5.0 Living Lab”. Step up here to find a range of cutting-edge technologies to create a venue that embodies the realization of Society 5.0. Specifically, this includes anything from the development of flying cars connecting ports within and outside the expo venues, rides on EV buses for venue access and circumnavigation to real demos of automatic translation systems that enable conversations with people worldwide.

Did you know that the Expo Osaka, Kansai has an official mascot? You won’t want to be caught without knowing "MYAKU-MYAKU," the mascot that’s now a veritable symbol of the Expo.
"MYAKU-MYAKU" is a mystical creature born from the union of cells and water, with its red parts representing cells and the blue parts water, that are all capable of morphing into new shapes. That means that while today it may look human today, its true form is a puzzling mystery. Thie unique design of MYAKU-MYAKU has garnered extra buzz for its beguilingly cute appearance. The backstory behind its birthplace and one-of-a-kind personality have been meticulously crafted, making it worth exploring further.

The name "MYAKU-MYAKU" embodies the hope that the essential elements humanity has inherited, think DNA, wisdom, technology, and cultural history, will continue to flow down "through the veins" into the future. It also reflects the Expo's theme of "connection," using the word "myaku" (vein) to signify this theme. Be sure to check out the official merchandise featuring "MYAKU-MYAKU" as well.

Here’s the lowdown of everything to know and love at Expo Osaka, Kansai. With so much to see, you’re bound to set your next journey for Expo Osaka, Kansai.

With the guide above you should have a general gist of the goings-on at Expo Osaka, Kansai.
Below is a detailed overview of the specific experiences to expect at the pavilions, one of the unmissable draws at Expo Osaka, Kansai.

Did you know that the very first Expo in Japan and Asia was also held in Osaka, back in 1970? It took place during the height of Japan's economic boom, a time when the population was rapidly increasing. The number of visitors exceeded 64 million, making it the most attended Expo until the Shanghai Expo in 2010. Several exhibits and works from the 1970 Japan World Exposition (Osaka Expo), including the iconic "Tower of the Sun," still remain in Osaka's "Expo '70 Commemorative Park" today. Alongside the 2025 Osaka Expo, why not take the opportunity to delve into the legacy of the Osaka Expo from over 50 years ago?

Gearing up for all the best from Expo Osaka, Kansai, here’s a closeup look at Osaka and its backstory as the host of the Expo. Osaka is the second-largest city in Japan and one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. Tourists from both Japan and abroad flock to the city for its tourist spots and famous Osaka foodscene.

The city boasts bustling districts filled with eateries where you can enjoy theme parks and Osaka's gourmet food, commercial hubs brimming with trendy buys, and still retains its urban charm while being home to many historic buildings. This rich tapestry of things to love is a testament to Osaka's prosperous past as a center of economic and cultural activity in Japan.

Osaka was once the capital of Japan around the 5th century and continued to play a pivotal role as a cultural and commercial gateway even after the capital moved to Nara and Kyoto in the 7th century. From the 12th to the 16th century, it's no exaggeration to say that Osaka was the economic and cultural heart of Japan. Although the capital shifted to Edo (now Tokyo) in the 17th century, Osaka maintained its role in managing the economy and logistics as the "nation's kitchen."

Osaka's rich history of culture, academia, and commerce continues to make it an attractive destination today. It's this significance that made it the site of Japan's first Expo in 1970. When visiting the Expo Osaka, Kansai, be sure to explore Osaka and experience its long history and diverse attractions.

Osaka is the host city of Expo Osaka, Kansai and ready to launch your next batch of unforgettable Japan travels. Set as one of Japan’s eight regions, Kansai is home to 10 different prefectures within the greater Union of Kansai Governments.

Located in the central-western part of Honshu, the capital was long situated in the Kansai region. The culture nurtured through its lengthy history has been carefully preserved to this day, allowing Kansai to offer a deep sense of Japan's traditional culture and ambiance, just waiting to unfold with all five senses. All thrills of true Japan vibes await in Kansai, your next destination and home to the Expo Osaka, Kansai and its deeply provoking sub-themes at the back of your mind.

Tickets will go on sale starting November 30, 2023. Purchasing tickets early can result in significant savings compared to buying them during the event. There are also passes available for multiple entries during specific periods, such as the Season Pass and Summer Pass, which are recommended for those who want to fully enjoy the Expo Osaka, Kansai, as there are too many attractions to cover in just one day. Ticket purchases are primarily online. For more details on tickets or to make a purchase, check out the Ticket Information section on the official website.

Q: When is the Expo Osaka, Kansai scheduled?
A: The Expo will be held from April 13, 2025, to October 13, 2025.

Q: What experiences can be had at the Expo Osaka, Kansai?
A: You can experience the cultures of Japan and various countries around the world, as well as get a feel for the future society.

With this comprehensive guide you’ve got everything to pack up and go to the Expo Osaka, Kansai filled with worthwhile discoveries, themes and concepts. Don’t forget all the inspiration for a great trip around the area, with spots in Osaka and Kansai that pair perfectly with a trip to the Expo. For hands-on fun, there are projects you can join ahead of the event just waiting for you to join in all the co-creation. Get ready to have an unforgettable time at the Expo Osaka, Kansai slated to launch in 2025.