In 2025, the world’s spotlight turns to Osaka, Japan, as it hosts of the World Expo. Running from April 13 to October 13, the Expo 2025 will be open over 184 days on Yumeshima, a man-made island in Osaka Bay, transforming it into a futuristic hub of innovation, culture, and collaboration.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, cultural explorer, architecture lover, or just looking to experience one of the most globally significant events, this is a great chance if you are visiting Japan this year.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit and book tickets.
Table of Contents
What is Expo 2025?
Expo 2025 Osaka, officially titled “Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan,” is a world exposition endorsed by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE). With the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” it aims to serve as a platform for countries and organizations to showcase their innovations and ideas for building a better future.
The event is organized around three subthemes: Saving Lives, Empowering Lives, and Connecting Lives. Each pavilion and exhibition is designed to align with these pillars, exploring how we can tackle health, sustainability, technology, and society in new and creative ways.
The Expo will feature over 150 participating countries and organizations, each contributing uniquely designed pavilions and exhibits. Japan expects around 28 million visitors during the six-month event.
Tickets: Options and How to Buy
There are a range of ticketing options available depending on when and how often you want to attend.
- A standard one-day adult pass costs ¥7,500.
- If you’re visiting on a weekday, you can save a bit with a ¥6,000 ticket.
- For night owls, the evening ticket—valid after 17:00 and until closing time at 22:00—will be priced at ¥3,700.
- If you plan to visit multiple times, a full-season pass is available for ¥30,000.
- There’s also a Summer Pass (valid from July 19 to August 31) for ¥12,000.
Discounted rates will be offered for children, youth, people with disabilities, and group bookings. Tickets can be purchased through designated travel agencies such as Kkday or Klook, the official Expo 2025 website and convenience stores throughout Japan.
To enter the Expo, you’ll need to reserve your visit in advance—even if you have a valid ticket. Expo organizers are using a reservation-based entry system to help control crowd sizes and enhance the visitor experience. To streamline this process, visitors are encouraged to register for an “Expo ID,” which allows you to manage your reservations and apply for popular pavilion lotteries. Especially if you book through Kkday or Klook, it is recommended to check availability on the desired day of visit beforehand, and reserve your entry slot for that day right after purchasing the tickets.
Getting There: Transportation and Access
Accessing the Expo site is quite straightforward, thanks to Osaka’s extensive transportation network and infrastructure improvements specifically for the event.
The most direct route will be via the Osaka Metro’s Chūō Line, which extends directly to the new Yumeshima Station*—opened in early 2025. From central Osaka, the metro ride takes around 30–40 minutes.
In addition to the metro, shuttle buses will run from major transportation hubs such as Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station (a Shinkansen stop), and Namba. JR West’s Sakurajima Line can also bring you close to the area, with shuttle connections available from Sakurajima Station.
Note that private vehicles will not be allowed on Yumeshima Island, so visitors are encouraged to rely on public transit. Also, large luggage won’t be permitted inside the venue, so plan accordingly.
Yumeshima, which means “Dream Island,” is a fitting stage for this vision of the future. Located in Osaka Bay, this artificial island has been purpose-built to accommodate the massive influx of visitors and structures.
One of the most striking architectural features of Expo 2025 is the Grand Ring—a two-kilometer circular wooden structure that will wrap around the main venue area. Designed to symbolize unity, sustainability, and openness, the Grand Ring will serve as both a promenade and gathering space, allowing visitors to navigate the site while soaking in panoramic views and dynamic displays.
To further simplify logistics, Japan’s Kansai MaaS (Mobility as a Service) app (Android|iOS) will allow users to reserve and manage transport to the site, making the whole process smoother.
Highlights and Must-See Attractions
Expect Expo 2025 to offer an incredible mix of art, architecture, science, and sensory experiences. From immersive tech installations to thought-provoking art and interactive exhibits, every corner of the venue will offer something new.
One of the defining features is the sheer creativity of the pavilions. Many participating countries are working with world-renowned architects and designers to create unique spaces that go far beyond traditional exhibitions. For example:
- Australia will present “Chasing the Sun,” a celebration of its indigenous heritage, innovation, and natural beauty.
- Austria’s “Composing the Future” pavilion will focus on harmony between humans, nature, and technology.
- Bahrain will highlight its maritime legacy through “Connecting Seas.”
- Cartier’s Women’s Pavilion will shine a spotlight on inspiring stories of women shaping the future.
- Ireland will blend architecture, poetry, and mythology to explore its shared cultural connections with Japan.
In addition to national showcases, corporate and NGO pavilions will tackle cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, sustainable development, health tech, and space exploration.
Also keep an eye out for Myaku-Myaku, the official Expo 2025 mascot. With its fluid, almost surreal appearance, this character represents life, water, and the interconnectedness of all things.
Tips for Visitors
To make the most of your visit, here are a few quick tips:
- Plan ahead. Reservations are required for each day you attend. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
- Avoid weekends. Weekdays, especially earlier in the week, will have smaller crowds.
- Go in the evening. Night tickets are cheaper, and the venue will be beautifully illuminated.
- Stay nearby. Hotels in Namba, Umeda, or near Universal Studios Japan offer easy access via metro or shuttle.
- Pack light. Security might be strict, and large bags may not be allowed inside.
Also, don’t miss the chance to explore Osaka beyond the Expo. The city is renowned for its street food—especially Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes)—as well as vibrant neighborhoods like Dotonbori and historical sites such as Osaka Castle. If time permits, a visit to Universal Studios Japan or a day trip to Kyoto or Nara is easily doable.
Of course, we also recommend going to a concert; you can check upcoming Osaka concerts here.
Where to Learn More
To dive deeper into event updates, pavilion previews, and transportation options, the following resources are essential:
- Official website: expo2025.or.jp/en
- Transportation details: transport.expo2025.or.jp/en
Final Thoughts
The Osaka Expo 2025 isn’t just another global event—it’s a once-in-a-generation experience that brings together creativity, technology, and humanity to reimagine the future. For Japan, it’s a chance to host the world once again after the Nagoya Expo 20 years earlier.
So whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first overseas adventure, make sure Expo 2025 Osaka is on your radar. Start planning early, book your tickets, and get ready for a journey into the future.
Hotels Near Osaka Expo 2025
Image credit: 財務省 (Ministry of Finance Japan)
License: Government of Japan Standard Terms of Use (Ver.2.0)
