The 2025 World Expo, officially known as the Osaka-Kansai Expo, will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025. With the theme "Designing a Future Society for Our Lives," the event promises a glimpse into a sustainable future where every individual can thrive. Over 160 countries and international organizations are participating, and several pavilions have already been announced with a strong focus on sustainability and innovative design.
Here’s a look at some of the standout pavilions:
1. Nordic Pavilion: Connecting People and Nature
The Nordic Pavilion, a collaboration between Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, is designed to emphasize the bond between people and nature. The building, modeled after a traditional Nordic barn and constructed entirely from Japanese-sourced wood, showcases sustainable architecture. Inside, visitors will experience exhibits through video and architecture that reflect the Nordic Circle’s vision of a better tomorrow. The pavilion’s rooftop restaurant, The Nordic Food Bar, embraces the zero-food-waste philosophy and serves dishes made from sustainable ingredients, including Nordic-inspired cuisine.
Location: Empowering Zone Overseas Pavilion P36-01
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00
Duration: Approximately 20 minutes
2. France Pavilion: Sustainable Luxury and Love
The French Pavilion, themed "Hymne Amore," invites visitors to explore a "new future" based on love for oneself, others, and nature. Featuring green rooftops and sustainable materials like recycled glass, the pavilion promotes eco-friendly luxury. The LVMH Group is a key partner, showcasing sustainable fashion pieces from brands like Louis Vuitton and Celine. Visitors can also experience sustainable luxury in the form of exquisite wines and cuisine.
Location: Empowering Zone International Pavilion P12-01
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00
Duration: Approximately 120 minutes
3. Saudi Arabia Pavilion: Greening the Desert
The Saudi Arabia Pavilion offers an immersive experience, transporting visitors to the heart of Saudi Arabia with exotic plants and traditional Saudi coffee. A key highlight is the Green Riyadh project, an ambitious plan to plant 7.5 million trees in Riyadh, creating a green, sustainable urban space. The pavilion also features NEOM, a futuristic city powered entirely by renewable energy. Guests can enjoy authentic Saudi cuisine, including stewed lamb and roasted barley desserts.
Location: Connecting Zone Overseas Pavilion C14-01
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00
Duration: Approximately 120 minutes
4. Philippine Pavilion: Weaving Nature, Culture, and Community
The Philippine Pavilion, designed by architect Carlo Calma, celebrates the country's rich cultural heritage through the motif of traditional "weaving." Over 200 hand-woven textile panels tell the story of Filipino craftsmanship and sustainability. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of 18 regions via AI experiences and live performances, while also enjoying Filipino cuisine at the pavilion's take-out counter.
Location: Empowering Zone Overseas Pavilion P09-01
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00
Duration: Approximately 120 minutes
5. Women’s Pavilion in Collaboration with Cartier: Empowering Female Leaders
The Women's Pavilion, a collaboration between Cartier and various Japanese organizations, highlights the power of female leadership and entrepreneurship. The pavilion, designed by architect Yuko Nagayama, features a stunning kumiko façade and explores how women can contribute to creating a fairer, more sustainable future. Panel discussions and lectures will take place in the "WA" space, and visitors can experience the stories of women who are shaping the future.
Location: East Gate Zone Other Pavilions E09-01
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00
Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
6. Future City Pavilion: Experiencing Tomorrow’s Urban Landscape
The Future City Pavilion, a joint project by Japan’s top companies, offers an immersive look at the future of cities through advanced technology. Visitors can experience the "Mirai Theater," an interactive space that allows them to solve social issues in a simulated 2035 future city. The pavilion’s eco-friendly design features a unique titanium oxide photocatalytic mesh membrane that purifies the air. The "Virtual Future City" online experience offers a preview of what’s to come.
Location: Future Life Zone Other Pavilions L05-01
Opening Hours: 9:20-21:00
Duration: Approximately 35 minutes
With these innovative pavilions and more to be announced, the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo promises to be a celebration of sustainability, creativity, and global cooperation. Don’t miss the chance to experience the future of our world, all while enjoying the rich cultural exchanges and innovative designs on display.
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