World Expo 2025 in Osaka Concludes with Record-Breaking Success and Global Unity

The World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, themed "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," concluded on October 13, 2025, after a six-month exhibition that attracted over 28 million visitors and featured participation from 165 countries and international organizations. The event, held on Yumeshima Island, showcased global innovations and fostered international collaboration.

The closing ceremony, attended by dignitaries including Japan's Crown Prince Akishino and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, celebrated the Expo's achievements. Prime Minister Ishiba emphasized the importance of unity and tolerance, noting that the Expo symbolized a new era for Japan and contributed to regional growth. Crown Prince Akishino expressed hope that the Expo's theme would continue to inspire global collaborations.

A central feature of the Expo was the Grand Ring, a 2-kilometer wooden structure designed by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto. Constructed using traditional wooden joinery techniques, the Grand Ring covered an area of 61,035 square meters, making it the largest wooden architectural structure in the world, as recognized by the Guinness World Records. The structure served as the main circulatory route and provided shelter for visitors, symbolizing "Diversity in Unity."

The Expo's pavilions showcased a diverse array of architectural styles and themes. Spain's pavilion, designed by Extudio, Enorme Studio, and Smart & Green Design, received multiple awards, including the silver medal for the most sustainable pavilion and the bronze for the best thematic concept. The pavilion emphasized sustainability and cultural exchange, aligning with the Expo's subthemes: "Saving Lives," "Empowering Lives," and "Connecting Lives."

Technological innovations were prominently featured throughout the Expo. Exhibits included cutting-edge technologies such as robots, flying cars, and health innovations. The Expo also integrated green technologies and implemented carbon reduction strategies, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Expo's budget was ¥235 billion ($1.64 billion), with the Grand Ring accounting for over 14% of the total cost. Despite construction delays and unfinished pavilions from some countries, the event successfully attracted over 28 million visitors, exceeding initial expectations.

This was Osaka's second time hosting a World Expo, the first being in 1970, which was a record-breaking event at the time. The 2025 Expo aimed to build upon this legacy by addressing contemporary global challenges and showcasing Japan's advancements in technology and sustainability.

As the Expo concluded, the flag was handed to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, signifying their role as hosts of the next World Expo in five years. The successful execution of Expo 2025 Osaka underscored the city's resurgence as a major cultural and economic hub, highlighting its role in promoting global unity and innovation.