Expo 2025 Osaka Guide

A safe and welcoming society, enriched with spirituality and humanism, where technology fosters an environment for productive work, comfortable recreation, and seamless communication, free from geographical and language barriers—this is the vision of the organisers of Expo 2025 Osaka for the future of humanity.

Discover more about this world exhibition, where groundbreaking achievements and ideas are showcased, offering a glimpse into the world of the second half of the 21st century—and perhaps even the opportunity to help shape it.

What is Osaka’s Expo 2025?

Expo 2025 is a World Expo set to take place in Osaka City (大阪市), located in the Kansai (関西地方) region of Japan. The event will run from April 13 to October 13, 2025.

Over the course of 184 days, approximately 160 countries and leading international organisations, including the United Nations, the International Solar Alliance, and ITER, will present their most innovative technologies and share ideas for advancing modern society and addressing global challenges. With an estimated attendance of around 20 million visitors, Osaka’s Expo 2025 is expected to be one of the most significant cultural events of the year.

The two objectives of Expo 2025 are:

• To contribute to the achievements of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
• To achieve Japan's national strategy Society 5.0

Osaka is hosting this event for the second time—the last World Expo was held here in 1970 in the town of Suita (吹田市), located just north of Osaka.

Osaka Expo 2025 Theme

The overarching theme of Expo 2025 in Osaka is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives". The event's organisers highlight the importance of integrating advanced technologies into all aspects of life to address global challenges and create a safer, more comfortable environment for modern society.

The sub-themes of World Expo 2025 focus on humanistic values, including the preservation of life in international conflicts, fostering connections between people, and empowering individuals.

Symbolism of Osaka’s Expo 2025

The official mascot of Osaka Expo 2025 is Myaku-Myaku (ミャクミャク), a playful blue and red character composed of living cells and water. Its colour scheme appears to represent the flow of arteries and veins, while its name, meaning "pulse" in Japanese, symbolises the continuity of life. Myaku-Myaku is characterised by kindness and a touch of clumsiness, along with special abilities—such as changing shape and always finding rainbows after the rain. The organisers hope this endearing character will leave a lasting impression on visitors and become the heart of the entire event.

The mascot was designed by artist Kohei Yamashita (山下 航平), while the concept and name were created by Kawakatsu Miyu (川勝 未悠). The Expo 2025 logo also features Myaku-Myaku, but only its red portion, evoking the design of the World Expo 1970 logo and reinforcing the continuity between the two events.

The musical symbol of the expo is the inspiring official theme song Kono Hoshi no Tsuzuki wo (この地球ほしの続きを), which speaks about dreams and their realisation. It was written and performed by the Japanese musical duo KOBUKURO (コブクロ).

Location - Where is Osaka Expo 2025?

Expo 2025 Venue and Infrastructure

Expo 2025 will take place in Osaka Bay, on the artificial Yumeshima Island (夢洲), which spans approximately 4 km².

One of the key features of the event will be the Expo 2025 Ring — a massive wooden structure encircling the main pavilions. This structure will serve as a walkway and shelter from the rain, wind and sun while also standing as one of the event's most iconic symbols. Its roof, positioned about 20 metres high, will offer guests a stunning panoramic view of the Expo 2025.

With a diameter exceeding 630 metres, the Expo Ring will be among the largest wooden structures in the world. It is also one of the most expensive, with construction costs estimated at approximately $220 million. The overall cost of preparing Yumeshima Island for Expo 2025 in Osaka is projected to be around $1.5 billion.

The Expo 2025 site will be divided into eight themed zones:

• Inside the Expo Ring:
  Connecting Lives Zone
  Forest of Tranquillity Zone
  Saving Lives Zone
  Empowering Lives Zone
  Signature Zone 
• Outside the Expo Ring:
  East Gate Zone
  West Gate Zone
  Future Life Village

Why Visit Expo 2025?

Global Innovation Hub

At Expo 2025 in Osaka, you will have the opportunity to become involved in a world of cutting-edge innovations and extraordinary cultural experiences—once thought to belong only in the realm of science fiction.

Top Things to Do at Expo 2025 in Osaka:

• See Flying Cars—Experience the future of transportation as flying cars take off along a designated coastal route between two specific points.
• Watch Next-Generation Robots—Discover robots that could soon become part of our daily lives. These futuristic assistants will be showcased at the Future of Life pavilion.
• Explore the Healthcare Pavilion—Witness a future version of yourself created using advanced medical data. Get a glimpse of how you might look and feel in 2050 based on predictive healthcare technology.
• Relax at TAIYO’s TSUBOMI Futuristic Sauna—Unwind in a high-tech sauna designed to harmonise natural and artificial elements. Located with a breathtaking view of the bay, this innovative space is designed to recharge both body and mind.

Unique Pavilions & Exhibits

Explore the diverse cultures and traditions of nations from around the world—Osaka’s World Expo 2025 will highlight the greatest achievements of 160 countries, presenting their history and ambitious visions for the future.

Many participating nations have already unveiled their pavilions, each designed with unique architectural styles that reflect their national identity and cultural heritage. These impressive structures will not only celebrate innovation but also leave a lasting impact with their scale and creativity.

Cultural Exchange & Entertainment: Festivals, Performances, and International Cuisine

Throughout Osaka’s World Expo 2025, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of events, from spectacular evening shows featuring fountains, drones, and fireworks to live music concerts, cultural festivals, exhibitions, seminars, symposiums, and thought-provoking discussions.

This vibrant programme will provide a unique opportunity for cultural exchange as guests experience international cuisine, traditional performances, and artistic shows from around the world.

For a detailed schedule of Osaka’s Expo 2025 events, please check out the official event calendar.

Major Events Taking Place During the Expo 2025 Osaka

Expo 2025 in Osaka is designed for visitors of all ages, with plenty of exciting attractions.

Opening programme of the Expo 2025 Osaka

Grand musical performances:

• Physical Twin Symphony — A unique fusion of music and digital art — Sunday, 13 April, 2025, to Sunday, 20 April, 2025
• Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony — Performed by a choir of 10,000 singers

Daily evening shows featuring:

• Fireworks & light displays — One World, One Planet, Under the Midnight Rainbow
• Projection mapping — EXPO Hall “Shining Hat”

Activities for children & families:

• Hands-on workshops & interactive exhibits
• Modern amusement rides & playgrounds

Closing Ceremony of the Expo 2025

With a packed schedule of family-friendly performances and entertainment, Expo 2025 in Osaka promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages!

Plan Your Trip

How to Get There? - Transportation Tips

There are several ways to reach Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transport.

By Subway (Easiest & Fastest Option)

The Chuo Line (中央線) provides the most convenient access to the Expo venue. A new station, Yumeshima (夢洲), was specifically built on the island for this event and is within walking distance of the venue. 

You can reach Yumeshima Station from the following Chuo Line stations in Osaka:

• Morinomiya (森ノ宮)
• Honmachi (本町)
• Bentencho (弁天町)
• Osakako (大阪港)
• Cosmosquare (コスモスクエア)

By Shuttle Bus

Dedicated shuttle buses will operate from nearby train stations, airports, and designated parking areas, ensuring easy access to the venue.

By Train (From Tokyo, Fukuoka, or Hiroshima)

If you are travelling from Tokyo by JR Tokaido Shinkansen (東海道新幹線) or from Fukuoka or Hiroshima by JR Sanyo Shinkansen (山陽新幹線), follow these steps:

1. Arrive at Shin-Osaka Station (新大阪) and transfer to the JR Kyoto Line (京阪線) to travel one stop to Osaka Station (大阪).
2. Transfer to the Osaka Loop Line (大阪環状線) and travel three stations to Nishikujo (西九条).
3. Switch to the Yumesaki Line (ゆめ咲線) and take the train to the last station, Sakurajima (桜島), the closest rail stop to the Expo.
4. From Sakurajima Station, transfer to one of the shuttle buses that will take visitors directly to Yumeshima Island.

For a detailed train station map of Osaka and the surrounding area, please visit:

JR Kansai Train Map

By Car

Direct access by car to the Expo 2025 venue is not permitted. Visitors driving to the event must park at designated lots and continue their journey by shuttle bus. The official Expo parking locations are:

• Maishima (舞洲)
• Amagasaki (尼崎)
• Sakai (堺)

It is highly recommended to book your parking space in advance to secure a spot. You can book your parking space in advance here:

Expo 2025 Parking Reservations

The most convenient parking option is in Maishima, located on a neighbouring island just a few kilometres from Yumeshima. Shuttle buses from Maishima will depart every few minutes, with the capacity to transport up to 19,000 visitors per day comfortably.

Where to Stay at the Expo 2025 Osaka? - Recommended Accommodation

Osaka offers a wide range of accommodation options, and during Expo 2025, the best choice is to stay near Osaka Bay, close to Yumeshima Island, for easy access to the event.

Top Hotels for Comfort & Proximity to Expo 2025

• Near Cosmosquare Station (Chuo Line)—Just One Stop from Expo 2025

These hotels offer spacious rooms, great views, and a convenient location on a neighbouring island:

• Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay
• Hoshino Resorts Risonare Osaka
• Quintessa Hotel Osaka Bay

These hotels are near Cosmosquare Station on the Chuo Line, which is only one subway stop from Yumeshima Station, the nearest station to the Expo venue.

• Near Universal Studios Japan—Luxurious & Convenient

If you prefer staying in a 4-5 star luxury hotel, consider these hotels near Universal Studios Japan, one of Osaka’s top entertainment destinations:

• Liber Hotel Osaka
• Hotel Universal Port
• The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan

These hotels are located near Sakurajima Station, making travel to Expo 2025 in Osaka quick and comfortable.

• Near Osaka—Authentic & Tranquil Ryokan Retreat

If you are willing to travel a bit outside the city for a more authentic and tranquil ryokan experience, these are the nearest options:

• Nanten-en (Kawachinagano) – About 40 minutes from central Osaka, designed by famous architect Tatsuno Kingo, featuring onsen and cultural activities.
• Fudouguchikan Ryokan (Izumisano) – About 1 hour from central Osaka, offering hot springs in a serene mountain setting.
• Okumizuma Onsen (Kaizuka) – Around 1 hour from Osaka, surrounded by nature and featuring open-air baths.

Where to Go? - Expo 2025 Guide

With dozens of pavilions and countless events taking place throughout Expo 2025 in Osaka, navigating the venue efficiently will be key to making the most of your visit.

To help visitors explore all that the Expo has to offer, the organisers have launched the official Expo 2025 visitors app, available in English:

Download the Expo 2025 App.

Additionally, an AI-powered personal guide — the Expo 2025 Personal Agent — is set to be released in early April. This intelligent assistant will tailor an optimised itinerary based on your preferences, ensuring you get the best possible experience at the event.

Things to Do in Osaka

While World Expo 2025 in Osaka is a must-visit event, the city itself—Japan’s third-largest metropolis—offers an incredible mix of cultural, historical, and modern attractions, along with countless entertainment options and unique local experiences.

Top Places to Visit in Osaka

• Osaka Castle (大坂城) — A majestic 16th-century castle and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks.
• Dotonbori (道頓堀) Entertainment District—A lively area famous for its bright neon lights, bustling streets, and mouthwatering street food.
• Universal Studios Japan—The first Universal theme park outside the U.S., featuring world-class rides, movie-themed attractions, and immersive entertainment.

Local Experiences

• Discover the World of Ninja (忍者)—Learn about ninja history, daily life, and weaponry. You can even try throwing ninja stars and dressing up in a traditional ninja costume.
• Explore the Marine World at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (海遊館)—One of the largest aquariums in the world, home to whale sharks, giant rays, and diverse marine life.
• Taste Osaka’s Famous Local Dishes—The city is a culinary paradise, known for specialities such as: 

Takoyaki (たこ焼き)—Crispy octopus-filled dough balls.

Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き)—A savoury Japanese pancake with various toppings.

Chiritori Nabe (ちりとり鍋)—A hearty hotpot dish.

Day Trip to Kyoto: Japan’s Cultural Capital

If you have extra time, consider visiting Kyoto (京都), just 60 km from the Expo 2025 venue. Kyoto is Japan’s cultural heart, filled with ancient temples, stunning gardens, and traditional tea houses—making it one of the country’s top travel destinations.

For a detailed guide, visit Kyoto Travel Guide

Hidden Gems: Nara—The City of Deer

About 30 km east of Osaka, Nara (奈良市) is famous for its:

• Ancient temples—including Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha.
• Serene parks and nature trails—perfect for a relaxing escape.
• Friendly, semi-wild deer roam—these gentle creatures wander freely through Nara Park and can even be fed by visitors.

For more information on Nara, visit Nara Travel Guide

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit the Expo 2025 Osaka

Osaka World Expo 2025 will take place from April to October, with each season offering a unique experience.

Ideal Months to Visit

April & May—These months are considered the best time to visit due to pleasant weather and a vibrant event calendar. The Expo will also coincide with cherry blossom season (Sakura Matsuri), making it one of the most picturesque times to explore Osaka.
June & September—If you prefer fewer crowds, these months are a great choice. June marks the start of the rainy season, but it is still manageable, while September brings cooler temperatures after the summer heat.

Dates to Avoid

Golden Week (April 29 to May 5)—One of Japan’s busiest holiday periods. During this time, domestic travel peaks, leading to large crowds, long queues, and heavy traffic. If possible, plan your visit outside these dates to enjoy a more relaxed experience.

How Long to Spend at the Expo 2025 Osaka?

• 1 day will allow you to visit one to two pavilions at fast pace and to assist to one major show.
• 2 days will be enough to visit three to four pavilions at your own pace or handpicked events taking place each day, as well as to assist to two major shows.
• 3-4 days will be ideal to visit most of the pavilions and to assist the major shows and some events taking place each day.

FAQs

More materials on Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai:

• Ticket Information Booklet
• Brief Overview of Osaka Expo 2025 & the Brilliance of Life Project
• Brochure with Event Map & Key Participants

Stay updated on the latest Expo 2025 Osaka news.