The Osaka-Kansai Expo is truly a gigantic festival that brings the world together! The venue, Yumeshima, is a place brimming with energy, where traditional Japanese culture intersects with visions for the future brought by over 160 countries from around the world. The expo runs until Monday, October 13th (national holiday). While there is little time left, here we introduce five unique surprises at the expo that will leave a fresh impression on both first-time visitors to Japan and repeat visitors. Knowing these will make your expo experience even more enjoyable and unforgettable!

Every day is a celebration! The excitement of participatory "street events"

At the Expo site, unpredictable fun awaits not only inside the pavilions but also in the outdoor plazas and streets. The excitement of this outdoor event will reach its peak towards the end of the event.

• The sudden start of Japanese festivals (Matsuri)

In the special arena "EXPO Arena Matsuri" and plaza within the venue, dynamic "matsuri" festivals from all over Japan will be performed. The sight of the "Danjiri," which can weigh up to 4 tons, racing along with great force, shaking the ground of the venue, is particularly impressive. You can experience the power and passion of traditional Japanese culture up close.

• "National Day" - a crossroads between dance and music from around the world

Every day during the event, a different country will have its own "National Day" or "Special Day." On these days, traditional dances, folk music, and parades unique to that country will be performed throughout the venue. Check the schedule and pop in to participate in a cultural event from a country that interests you. You'll be able to enjoy a rich intercultural exchange that will make you feel as if you've traveled to that country.

• A "kawaii" performance dancing with Miyakumyaku

Miyakumyaku, the official mascot of the Expo, is very charming despite his unique appearance. His dance performances and greetings bring smiles to the faces of people of all ages, making him a symbol of Japan's "kawaii" culture.

Experience "Life"! Japan's cutting-edge medical care and the future of health

The main theme of the Expo, "Designing a Future Society for Life," is concretely expressed through exhibits on healthcare and biotechnology, two areas in which Japan excels. This is not just a technology exhibit, but an experience that directly connects to your health and future life.

• Turn your own cells into art Some exhibits, such as the "Dynamic Equilibrium of Life" produced by biologist Shinichi Fukuoka, allow you to understand the mechanisms of life visually and artistically. It is a unique opportunity to gain a beautiful and profound understanding of the mechanisms of your body and the workings of your cells.

• Meet "robot" friends at the Expo: Cutting-edge robots are active throughout the venue, performing a variety of roles, including as guides, security guards, and cleaners. Communicating with them is an experience that gives you a glimpse into the everyday life of the future seen in science fiction movies. Enjoy taking photos and chatting with them.

Behind the scenes of gourmet food! The future of food and the challenge of reducing food waste

The cuisine at the Osaka Expo is not just delicious, but is also deeply connected to the global issues of "the future of food" and "sustainability."

• The world's first "Future Food" tasting Some pavilions and special restaurants are offering "Future Food," which has the potential to solve the world's food problems, such as meat substitutes, insect-based foods, and cultured meat. If you have the courage to try it, you could become a pioneer experiencing the dining table of the future. • Technology that turns "hidden food waste" into value Food production

・There will also be an exhibit that uses cutting-edge technology to turn "hidden food waste" that occurs during the distribution process into something valuable, as well as a booth that offers menus using these waste products. This gourmet experience kills two birds with one stone, allowing you to eat delicious food while also thinking about contributing to a sustainable society.

• Bringing together coffee cultures from around the world Events like the OKAGESAMA COFFEE EXPO bring together coffee producers and roasters at the Expo, providing a platform for connecting with the world through a cup of coffee. Why not take a coffee in hand and think about the Earth's forests and future?

Try your luck! Get your hands on limited collaboration goods

In addition to official Expo merchandise, limited collaboration items with companies and popular characters will become even more valuable as the Expo draws to a close.

• Miyakumyaku Plush Toy Lottery A popular way to try your luck is to enter the Miyakumyaku Plush Toy Lottery. Many of the popular character goods can only be purchased here, making them the perfect souvenirs from your trip to Japan.

• Expo-exclusive "Sake and Sweets" Expo-exclusive sake and sweets, created in collaboration with sake breweries and long-established confectionery shops in Osaka and the Kansai region, make very popular souvenirs. In particular, those with designs of the Myaku Myaku or the large roof ring on the packaging make ideal commemorative gifts.

• "Expo Stamps" that connect to the future Official commemorative items such as commemorative stamps and coins are standard items that leave a tangible legacy of the Expo. As time passes, these will bring back memories of that time more vividly.

The perfect place to end your trip: Osaka Bay Area

Yumeshima, where the Expo site is located, is an artificial island floating in Osaka Bay. Use your visit to the Expo as an opportunity to fully enjoy the charms of the Osaka Bay Area.

• Spectacular seaside views and sunsets The sunset over Osaka Bay, seen from the top of the large roof ring or from the rest area facing the sea, is a spectacular sight that will make you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. It's also an excellent photo spot, making it a beautiful way to end your trip to Japan.

• Enjoy the city of Osaka with easy access from the Expo

The Expo site is directly connected to Osaka city (Honmachi, Morinomiya, etc.) via the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, providing excellent access. After enjoying the Expo, it's easy to extend your trip to lively tourist spots unique to Osaka, such as the neon lights of Dotonbori and Universal Studios Japan (USJ).

Please also check out "Osaka, the city of gourmets! 8 Osaka gourmet dishes popular among foreign tourists" ▼▼

Access to Yumeshima, the venue for the Osaka-Kansai Expo

There are three main routes to Yumeshima, the venue for the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

1. Train (Main): The new Yumeshima Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line will connect directly to the East Gate. Accessible from Osaka city without transfers.

2. Bus (reservation required): Direct shuttle buses (reservation recommended) arrive in front of the West Gate from major Kansai stations such as JR Sakurajima Station, Shin-Osaka Station, and Osaka Station, as well as Kansai International Airport.

3. By boat: You can access the pier near the West Gate by shuttle boat (fee required, reservation required) from bases along the Osaka Bay coast. As private cars are generally not allowed into the venue, please use public transportation or park and ride.

Location of Osaka

summary

The Osaka-Kansai Expo is a rare opportunity to connect visitors from all over the world with "life" and "the future." Come and experience this excitement with your whole body, something you can only experience now! You're sure to find your best "future memories" at the Expo site!

Osaka-Kansai Expo official website : https://www.expo2025.or.jp

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.