The 2025 World Expo, Japan (Osaka-Kansai Expo), which began on April 13, 2025, is fast drawing to a close. The event will run until Monday, October 13 (national holiday). While there is little time left, it is still possible to experience the final excitement and excitement of this grand festival, which has as its theme "Designing a Future Society for Life."

The excitement and strategies for the event as it draws to a close

As the Expo draws to a close, the venue is turning into a melting pot of excitement. Every day, the venue is bustling with visitors, and the pavilions and events are stepping up their efforts to reach their climax. We'll introduce some clever ways to conquer the Expo, taking into account the unique circumstances of this time of year.

1.1 Congestion situation in the venue and strategies for different times

Currently, the Expo site is expected to be extremely crowded every day, especially on weekends and holidays, but it will also be crowded all day on weekdays. However, there are still chances to enjoy the site relatively smoothly depending on the time of day.

• East Gate in the morning: Due to the high concentration of transportation, the area around the East Gate is the most crowded from immediately after the park opens until the morning.

• Arrive in the late afternoon and use the West Gate: As the official information states, if you have a reservation, we recommend arriving in the late afternoon. The West Gate in particular tends to be less crowded than the East Gate.

• Aim for the "Night Expo" in the evening: After sunset, the pavilions are illuminated and night-time shows are held, creating a fantastic atmosphere that is completely different from the daytime. The last entry to the pavilions is around 8:00 PM, but the pavilions that are open at night and the outdoor illuminations are a must-see. There are also spots where you can enjoy the sunset and night view along Osaka Bay, such as the "City of the Future" pavilion.

1.2 When reserving a pavilion, bet on the "same-day registration terminal"!

Popular pavilions are often fully booked in advance, but there's no need to give up.

• Use the same-day registration terminals: By using the "same-day registration terminals" installed in various locations throughout the venue, you may be able to obtain numbered admission tickets (EE, EXPO Enjoy) for pavilions that have available slots on the day. These are on a first-come, first-served basis, so check the location of the terminal as soon as you enter and try to get a same-day slot at a popular pavilion.

• Aim for pavilions that don't require reservations: Some international pavilions and some domestic pavilions allow entry on a first-come, first-served basis without the need for reservations. By moving around these pavilions efficiently, you can enjoy a multicultural experience while avoiding crowds. For example, the Saudi Arabian Pavilion holds events every day without the need for reservations, and you can also enjoy projection mapping at night.

Recommended pavilions you definitely can't miss!

If you're planning to go now, it's a good idea to carefully select pavilions that strongly reflect the theme and offer great experiential value.

2.1 "Life" and "Future Technology" at the Japanese Pavilion

The popular pavilion is filled with uniquely Japanese technology and philosophy, embodying the Expo's theme of "Designing a Future Society for Life."

Osaka Healthcare Pavilion: "Nest for Reborn"

Highlights: This interactive exhibit, which focuses on future health and allows visitors to meet "the person they will be 25 years from now" based on their own body measurements, has been generating a lot of buzz. More than just an exhibition, the Reborn Experience focuses on the participants' own "lives," allowing them to deeply experience the theme of the Expo.

• null² (Slippery) Pavilion

• Recommended points: A mysterious art space that appeals to the senses, created by media artist Yoichi Ochiai. Not only is the exterior beautiful, but the experience, which promises to "reboot your values," truly raises questions about the future of society.

• GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION

• Recommended points: The biggest attraction is the life-size Gundam statue, which is appearing for the first time in the Kansai region. Its pose of kneeling and gazing into space is very impressive. The story, which uses Gundam to present the possibilities of future space utilization and peace, is a must-see even for non-fans.

2.2 "A Journey Around the World" at Overseas Pavilions

The overseas pavilions, which are attended by approximately 160 countries and regions, are filled with exhibits that condense each country's unique culture, history, and vision for the future.

• Italian Pavilion

Highlights: National treasures usually only available in Italy, such as the Farnese Atlas and Caravaggio's Entombment, are coming to Japan. This is such a rare opportunity that it's been described as "worth the cost alone."

Saudi Arabian Pavilion

Highlights: This huge pavilion is the second largest after the Japan Pavilion, and its exotic atmosphere is its charm. The souk-like structure surrounding the courtyard is highly rated for the fact that no reservations are required. As the next host country, China is focusing on spreading its energy and culture.

Kuwait Pavilion

Recommended points: The pavilion is popular for its immersive exhibits and unique worldview that expresses the beauty of the desert. It is also known for its photogenic nature, making it a great place to take photos on social media.

Common theme areas and events that allow you to experience the "soul" of the Expo

Don't miss not only the pavilions, but also the common areas that form the "core" of the Expo scattered throughout the venue, as well as the final events.

3.1 Venue symbol "Large Roof Ring"

The "Great Ring Roof," the symbol of the Expo site, is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest wooden structure in the world.

• Combining function and landscape: The ring, which is approximately 2km in circumference, provides shade and protection from the rain for visitors and allows for smooth passage, while also featuring a design that symbolizes the "Circle of Life."

• View from the Skywalk: The top of the ring is the "Skywalk," from which you can enjoy a magnificent view of the entire venue and the beautiful sunset over Osaka Bay. It's a great photo spot, especially in the evening.

3.2 Spectacular nighttime shows and entertainment

The nights at the Expo are a continuous stream of light and sound entertainment, and the excitement reaches its peak as the expo draws to a close.

• Water Plaza Fountain Show: The spectacular "Symphony of Water and Air" show, which combines music, fountains, and water screen images, is synonymous with the evenings at the Expo.

• Nighttime lighting and mist effects: With lighting effects on the large roof ring and each pavilion, and the fantastical mist at the "City of the Future" pavilion, the venue at night becomes a work of installation art.

Final Events: Towards the end of the festival , there may be additional special performances and events held at each pavilion and on stages within the venue. Be sure to check the official website and social media for the latest information.

Gourmet

At the Expo, where you'll be walking around for long periods of time, gourmet food is also an important part of the fun.

• Osaka-Kansai Expo Gourmet Guidebook: Use this guidebook, which contains information on various restaurants, including those at overseas pavilions, to enjoy cuisine from around the world.

The finale of the Expo

Witness the closing ceremony

The closing ceremony will finally be held on Monday, October 13, 2025 (national holiday). With the theme of "For the Futures," the ceremony will convey gratitude to everyone involved in the Expo and mark the handover of the BIE flag to the next host country.

• Public viewing at the venue: The ceremony is by invitation only, but public viewing will be held at the EXPO National Day Hall and EXPO Arena on the venue.

• TV Live Streaming: The event will be broadcast live on NHK General TV, as well as on the official YouTube channel and the Virtual Expo, allowing viewers to share in the excitement of the finale from the comfort of their own homes.

Location of Osaka

Don't miss your last chance

Not only can you still make it in time, but there are reasons why you should go to the Osaka-Kansai Expo. This is your last chance to experience the excitement of the climax that condenses the theme of the Expo, the moving night show, and feel the hope for the future.

Be sure to see the "final sparkle" of this magnificent festival with your own eyes and receive the strength to take a step towards the future. Now, hurry to Yumeshima!

Osaka-Kansai Expo Official Website

https://www.expo2025.or.jp

Please also check out "What is Osaka's local B-class gourmet food, Kushiage? Introducing its characteristics and history! " ▼▼

Please note: This article is based on information at the time of publication and may differ from the latest information. Transportation status, fares, and service details are subject to change, so please check the latest information yourself before traveling. We cannot be held responsible for any trouble or damage that may occur as a result of using the contents of this article as a reference.