From Around the World
When you think of expos, the international pavilions come to mind. The theme song of the 1970 Osaka Expo started with “♪Konnichiwa, konnichiwa, from the countries of the world…” — that nostalgic melody came rushing back.
The huge, globe-shaped Singapore Pavilion really stood out. I snapped a photo of the Azerbaijan Pavilion — its beautiful design was too good to pass up. Out of the 188 total pavilions at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, I heard that 161 are from overseas. The only one I actually managed to get into was the China Pavilion. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it into the Japan Pavilion this time.The U.S. and French pavilions were right next to each other — and super popular. The lines were so long, I gave up on waiting. It reminded me of when I was in third grade, 55 years ago, and saw a moon rock at the American Pavilion during the 1970 Expo.
The Grand Roof Ring
A symbolic centerpiece of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo is the Grand Roof Ring. As many may already know, it has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest wooden structure in the world. It stands as a modern counterpart to the “Tower of the Sun” from the 1970 Expo.
The structure spans more than 2 kilometers in circumference — walking a full loop is quite the workout. At 20 meters in height, it offers sweeping views that extend far across the sea. Escalators and elevators are available to take visitors up to the top.
Future Society
The theme of the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” The expo offers exciting and inspiring experiences related to health, future cities, urban life, and society — all designed to spark wonder and expand our hopes for what the future may hold.
At the PASONA NATUREVERSE pavilion, Noripy had the chance to try out a futuristic bed designed to guide users into a state of deep, comfortable sleep. I also witnessed a beating “iPS heart,” created from induced pluripotent stem cells — a truly moving glimpse into the possibilities of regenerative medicine.
As for flying cars, I happened to visit on a non-flight day, so I wasn’t able to see one in action. But even just seeing the full-size vehicle on display was thrilling in itself.
Enjoy to the Fullest
The grand fountain show, synchronized with music, was truly impressive — almost like stepping into a dream world at night.
Even the benches where Noripy took a break after walking around the vast grounds were creatively designed and full of character.
Here’s an honest confession: the pavilion I enjoyed the most was the Gundam Next Future Pavilion. It offered a fully immersive experience into future society alongside Gundam. And the life-sized Gundam statue, standing 17 meters tall, was absolutely breathtaking.
A photo from behind with Myaku-Myaku, the official mascot, is a great option—it’s usually less crowded.
A Mysterious Experience
In Noripy’s hand is a curious little device — a glowing orb that guides you through vibration. It lights up in various colors, and its soft, rounded shape is absolutely charming.
This was part of my visit to the Co-Wellbeing Pavilion, one of the eight Signature Pavilions (Theme Pavilions) at the Expo.
Nightscape
As twilight falls, the Expo grounds are transformed — the energy of the day gives way to an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The night view is breathtakingly beautiful. When soft mist drifts through the air, the scene turns dreamlike, as if you’ve stepped into a fantasy. And the Grand Roof Ring, aglow with lights in the darkness, is nothing short of magical — a radiant crown shimmering against the night sky.
Foodie’s Delight!
A hamburger of the future — I sampled a cutlet made with soy-based meat.
“So this is what the future tastes like?!”
Foodie, satisfied!
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