Expo 2025 Kicks Off in Osaka with Grand Architectural Displays and Global Innovations

Expo 2025 officially commenced on April 13, 2025, in Osaka, Japan, under the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives." Hosted on Yumeshima Island, a reclaimed area in Osaka Bay, the six-month event aims to showcase global innovations and foster international unity.

The opening ceremony featured a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, attended by more than 10,000 participants. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed optimism that the expo could foster unity in a world divided by conflicts, trade tensions, and post-pandemic challenges.

A central architectural highlight is the "Grand Ring," a 2-kilometer-long wooden structure designed by architect Sou Fujimoto. Standing 20 meters high and with a diameter of 675 meters, it has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest wooden architectural structure, covering an area of 61,035 square meters. Constructed using traditional Japanese wooden joinery techniques, the Grand Ring symbolizes unity and connection.

The expo features participation from over 160 countries and organizations, each presenting innovations and cultural exhibits within approximately 80 uniquely designed pavilions. Notable participants include Ireland, which showcases its cultural and creative connections with Japan through a striking national pavilion and associated projects.

Despite the ambitious goal of attracting 28 million visitors, early reports indicate that only 9 million tickets have been sold so far. This shortfall has raised concerns about meeting attendance targets.

The expo is projected to generate an economic impact estimated between 12.27 and 17.6 billion euros. In line with its theme, the event actively promotes decarbonization and the introduction of advanced energy technologies aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Initiatives include the use of next-generation perovskite solar cells and carbon recycling technologies.

To accommodate the influx of visitors, the Osaka Metro Chūō Line was extended to Yumeshima Island, with the new Yumeshima Station opening on January 19, 2025. This extension is expected to handle over 130,000 passengers daily during the expo.

The expo's official mascot, Myaku-Myaku, is a colorful and friendly character designed to symbolize the event's themes. Created by illustrator Kouhei Yamashita, Myaku-Myaku has become a recognizable figure throughout the venue.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed optimism that the international event could foster unity in a world divided by conflicts, trade tensions, and post-pandemic challenges. The expo aims to promote global collaboration through technological exhibits and cultural exchange.

This is Osaka’s second World Expo since its record-breaking 1970 event. The 1970 expo was notable for its futuristic themes and technological showcases, setting a high benchmark for subsequent events.

As Expo 2025 progresses, it remains to be seen how it will address the challenges of attendance and global unity amid current geopolitical tensions.