Step into the future at Expo 2025 Osaka, the world’s biggest stage for innovation, culture, and collaboration. Held once every five years, this global gathering welcomes over 150 nations and 28 million visitors to an island built exclusively for the Expo. From breathtaking AI-powered experiences and sustainability breakthroughs to immersive pavilions that reimagine how we live, work, and connect — this is your chance to see tomorrow, today.
Theme
Designing future society for our lives
Sub-theme
Saving lives
Sub-theme
Empowering lives
Sub-theme
Connecting lives
Why visit Expo 2025 Osaka
1/8
A once-in-five-years global event
World Expos are held only once every five years, and each edition is a limited-time opportunity. Osaka’s 2025 Expo is expected to be the largest to date, welcoming millions of visitors over six months with pavilions, performances, and groundbreaking exhibits that will never be repeated in the same form again.
Global participation
More than 150 countries and 25 international organisations will be represented through national pavilions, cultural showcases, and technological demonstrations. Together, they form an unmatched chance to explore the world in a single venue, from Saudi Arabia’s immersive light shows to Japan’s circular pavilion with its waste-to-energy system.
People’s Living Lab
The Expo’s unifying theme turns the grounds into a hands-on innovation hub. Visitors can try VR and AR exhibits, interact with future mobility devices, vote on digital scenarios, or see their own ideas reflected in real-time prototypes. Eight themed pavilions explore life from different angles such as health, environment, and mobility, making it both interactive and thought-provoking.
Grand Ring design
Designed by Sou Fujimoto, the Grand Ring is a two-kilometer circular timber walkway — the largest wooden structure ever built in Japan and a Guinness World Record holder. It connects every pavilion in one continuous loop, symbolizing global unity. Visitors can walk its elevated deck for panoramic views of pavilion rooftops and Osaka Bay, especially striking at sunset.
Spectacular shows and entertainment
The Expo offers more than exhibits — it’s also a cultural festival. The Water Plaza hosts day performances and a nightly show Under the Midnight Rainbow with 300 fountains, lasers, and projection mapping across an 8,800 m² stage. Inside the EXPO Hall, 360-degree projection mapping powered by 16 high-luminosity projectors immerses audiences in larger-than-life visuals.
Innovative showcase exhibits
Corporate and special pavilions feature some of the Expo’s most surprising experiences: Panasonic’s digital playland for children, robotic flower fields that react to movement, futuristic mobility hubs with flying car demos, and interactive showcases like a humanoid robot parade. Many of these installations let visitors participate directly, turning observation into involvement.
Meet the mascot
Myaku-Myaku, the quirky red-and-blue mascot, embodies the flow of life and connections across generations. Beyond its symbolism, it adds a fun, approachable element to the Expo, appearing at events, parades, and in themed merchandise that make it a favorite among families and children.
Commitment to sustainability
Expo 2025 is ISO 20121 certified and emphasizes carbon neutrality, circular economy practices, and sustainable procurement. Many pavilions integrate eco-friendly technologies, from energy-harvesting floors to biodegradable building materials, ensuring that innovation is tied to responsibility.
Your Osaka Expo 2025 ticket options
If you have a packed Osaka itinerary
Opt for: Night Ticket with entry after 5 pm. This option lets you catch evening performances, stroll through illuminated pavilions, and enjoy the dining scene without blocking your entire day.
Price: starts from ¥3,700
Access to all pavilions: Yes (reservation required)
Ideal for: Visitors who want a shorter yet memorable Expo experience focused on shows and nightlife.
If you’re free on a weekday
Opt for: Weekday Ticket with entry from 11 am, valid Monday to Friday. It offers full-day access at a lower price, with the added benefit of smaller weekday crowds compared to weekends and holidays.
Price: starts from ¥6,000
Access to all pavilions: Yes (reservation required)
Ideal for: Travelers who can align their schedule to weekdays and want more time inside the Expo grounds.
If you want to enjoy the flexibility to visit any day
Opt for: 1-Day Ticket with full-day entry from 11am on any day of the week, including weekends and holidays. This ticket offers you the freedom to explore it all in one day, without scheduling constraints.
Price: starts from ¥7,500
Access to all pavilions: Yes (reservation required)
Ideal for: Visitors dedicating a full day to the Expo who want maximum flexibility in choosing their travel dates.
Step-by-step guide to Osaka Expo 2025 reservations & lottery
Get your Expo code
Once you book your Expo 2025 ticket on Headout, you’ll receive a confirmation email that has the voucher with a purple ‘Download Ticket’ button.
The ticket voucher has your 10-digit Ticket ID (sometimes referred to as Ticket #). You will need this to register on the official Expo 2025 website in the next step.
Register your 10-digit Ticket ID using the Additional Ticket Registration under the My Tickets tab to proceed to the next steps.
Reserve your Expo visit
Go to the Apply for Reservation/Lotteries section.
Click on Select the ticket you want to add a reservation to.
Choose your visit date and then the visit time.
After completing the visit registration, you’ll see a pop-up that says, ‘The visit date and time has been set.’
Apply for pavilion lotteries
Expo pavilions have limited spots, so you’ll need to enter a lottery. Book this as early as possible, as popular pavilions fill fast.
Go to the Apply for Reservation/Lotteries section.
Select your preferred lottery type - 2-month advance lottery or 7-day advance lottery.
Click on Select the ticket you want to apply for the lottery and select your ticket.
Then choose your top 5 pavilions and time slot options.
Click on register. To get the list of all pavilions, click on search without typing anything.
After adding your first choice, click on Add other wishes to add the remaining choices.
Once all your choices are locked, click on Apply for lottery with this content and wait for lottery results in the Messages section.
Note
There is also a last-minute slot which opens up 2-3 days before your visit, but based only on cancellation.
Lottery results
Results are announced in your Messages section on the website after you log in.
The 2-month lottery results are announced 2 months before your visit, and the 7-day lottery options will be shared 7 days before your visit.
If you do not win the lottery, you can still attend the Expo and visit the pavilions on a first-come, first-served basis.
On the day of your visit
Open the Expo 2025 website.
Log in with your Expo ID and go to My Tickets > Purchase history.
Click on Display QR code.
Use this QR code at the gates and pavilions to enter.
Expo 2025 Osaka site zones explained
The Expo site on Yumeshima Island is organized into eight interconnected zones surrounding the iconic Grand Ring, each serving a specific thematic or functional purpose:
Connecting Lives Zone
Positioned along the north side of the Grand Ring, this zone features official participants' pavilions aligned with the sub-theme Connecting Lives.
Saving Lives Zone
Positioned on the west side of the Ring, this zone centers on the theme of Saving Lives, with pavilions showcasing innovations in health, safety, and human well-being.
Empowering Lives Zone
Found on the east side within the Ring, this zone hosts official participants' pavilions centered on Empowering Lives.
Signature Zone
On the southern side inside the Ring, this area is dedicated to the main theme through curated Signature Pavilions.
Forest of Tranquility Zone
Centrally located within the Grand Ring, this serene forest zone offers green space rather than exhibition pavilions.
Future Life Zone
At the western edge of the site, this area includes large-scale venues like the EXPO Arena and Vertiport, focusing on futuristic mobility and events.
East Gate Zone
Just outside the eastern access point, this zone includes private sector and local government pavilions, as well as the Japan Pavilion and EXPO Hall Shining Hat.
West Gate Zone
Located near the western entry, this area hosts the Expo Exhibition Centre and private sector pavilions, along with event spaces.
Most popular pavilions at Osaka Expo 2025
UAE Pavilion
As of late August, it has welcomed over three million visitors, making it one of the most visited national pavilions. Its striking architecture, inspired by the date palm, blends sustainability with cultural storytelling.
Japan Pavilion
Widely regarded as the Expo’s top draw, this pavilion combines robotics, digital art, and traditional culture within a sustainability-focused design built from Japanese cedar. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Gundam Next Future
A clear fan favorite and must-see attraction, it features a life-sized Gundam statue and immersive technology exhibits. It remains one of the busiest pavilions for anime and tech enthusiasts.
Indian Pavilion
Designed as a lotus-shaped structure, the pavilion highlights India’s progress in innovation, sustainability, and cultural diversity. It focuses on digital advancements while celebrating timeless traditions.
Yoshimoto Warai Myraii Pavilion
Blending Japanese comedy with cutting-edge technology, this pavilion offers interactive entertainment. It consistently ranks among the most sought-after experiences at the Expo.
null²
A standout among the Signature Pavilions, this pavilion by Yoichi Ochiai features mirrored architecture that responds to sound and motion. Its unique design and digital artistry have made it a social media sensation.
France Pavilion
Renowned for its immersive “Theatre of Life,” this pavilion blends art, science, and culture in a multi-sensory experience. A rooftop garden provides a green oasis with panoramic views.
Saudi Arabia Pavilion
Designed to reflect traditional villages, the pavilion combines sensory experiences with modern technology. It offers a rich look at the kingdom’s culture, heritage, and future vision.
Cartier Women’s Pavilion
Curated with immersive storytelling, this pavilion highlights women’s contributions to shaping society. Its design emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and social progress.
Osaka Expo 2025 map & visitor zones
Osaka Expo 2025 combos: Expo entry plus city highlights in one ticket
Make the most of your Expo trip with a range of combo tickets that blend world innovation with Osaka’s best attractions. Each option includes Expo 2025 single entry plus an add-on of your choice, from theme park thrills to cultural icons and city transport.
Available combos:
Expo + Universal Studios Japan: Movie magic and future tech in one trip.
Expo + Osaka Metro & City Bus Pass: Unlimited travel plus Expo entry.
Expo + Osaka Castle: Skip-the-line heritage and cutting-edge showcases.
Expo + Osaka Amazing Pass: Free entry to 40+ attractions with Expo access.
Expo + USJ + Have Fun in Japan Pass: A full 2-week adventure across 21 top attractions.
They save time, money, and planning! With one booking, you can see the world at Expo 2025 and the very best of Osaka.
Plan your visit to Osaka Expo 2025
Opening hours: The Osaka Expo 2025 operates daily from 9am to 10pm. The event starts from April 13 and will go on till October 13, 2025.
Ideal duration: It is best to spend at least 3-4 hours visiting all the pavilions and attending the shows.
Best time to visit
During the day: Mornings are ideal, with cooler weather, shorter lines, and more time to explore at your own pace.
During the week: Weekdays offer a calmer experience compared to weekends, with fewer crowds and easier access to popular pavilions.
During the year: Autumn brings the most pleasant weather, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures for walking the site.
Address: 1-chome, Konohana-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture (Osaka Yumeshima) | Find on Maps
By train: Take the Osaka Metro Chūō Line directly to Yumeshima Station, located right in front of the Expo East Gate. It's the most seamless and high-capacity option.
By shuttle bus: Reserve ahead via the KANSAI MaaS app for shuttle buses from JR Sakurajima Station, as well as major hubs and airports including Shin-Ōsaka, Osaka (Umeda), Namba, Tennoji, Amagasaki, Sakai, Kansai Airport, and Itami Airport. All shuttles deliver you to the West Gate of the Expo.
By car: Driving directly to the Expo is prohibited. Instead, park at designated lots in Maishima, Amagasaki, or Sakai (advance reservation required), then take a shuttle bus to the West Gate. For visitors with disabilities, accessible parking is available next to the East Gate (also reservation-only).
By boat: Some passenger ships dock at the North Yumeshima Floating Pier. From there, a local shuttle (no reservation needed) takes you to the Expo West Gate.
By walking or bicycle: If you're staying nearby in the waterfront or harbor area, walking to the site may take around 45 minutes. Bicycle parking is available at Yumeshima (advance reservation required) and at Cosmosquare.
Rest areas: Multiple shaded seating zones and lounges, including the Forest of Tranquility.
Prayer & meditation rooms: Quiet spaces for prayer, meditation, or contemplation.
Nursing rooms & family facilities: Baby care and child-friendly spaces for families.
First aid & medical stations: On-site health support for emergencies and minor care.
Information centers: Help desks for directions, schedules, accessibility services, and lost & found.
Accessible toilets & facilities – Designed for wheelchair users and guests with limited mobility.
Universal Design Services –
NaviLens: Audio and location guidance via QR-like codes.
shikAI: Voice navigation with tactile path coding for visually impaired guests.
EXPO Translation App: Free multilingual support (30+ languages).
Real-time text announcements: Venue announcements displayed in multiple languages.
Mobility Services – Shuttle transport, rental wheelchairs, and stroller services.
Dining & Refreshments – Restaurants, cafés, kiosks, and food courts across thematic zones.
Shops & Souvenirs – Official Expo merchandise outlets and cultural gift shops.
Large baggage and luggage with wheels that exceed the permitted dimensions may not be brought into the site, so please leave oversized items elsewhere before coming.
All bags will be inspected at the entrance, and beverages should be removed from bags for inspection.
Prohibited items include explosives or high-pressure gas, matches and other flammables, knives and other sharp tools, golf clubs and similar sporting equipment, glass bottles and canned or alcoholic beverages, camera monopods/tripods and selfie sticks, drones and other wireless radio-controlled equipment, bicycles/scooters/skateboards and other rolling objects, banners and loudspeakers, pepper spray and harmful substances, and other items that pose a safety risk or are prohibited by law.
If a prohibited item is found during inspection you will be asked to dispose of it on the spot; if you do not wish to discard the item you must leave the queue to store it elsewhere and then rejoin the line.
Private vehicles are not permitted to access the Expo site; visitors should use public transport or authorized park-and-ride services.
The Expo site operates on a fully cashless basis, so cash will not be accepted — please bring acceptable cashless payment methods.
Pets are not allowed on site, except for certified service animals such as guide dogs, hearing dogs, and assistance dogs.
Smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas, and if you leave the site to smoke you must follow the re-entry procedures and staff instructions to come back in.
Expo 2025 Osaka offers a wide variety of dining options, from local Osaka favorites and international cuisine to premium and specialty meals, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
Osaka Noren Meguri: Food court with Osaka classics like takoyaki and kushikatsu.
Kura Sushi: Futuristic 135-meter conveyor sushi with AI features.
Lounge & Dining: Premium sushi and teppanyaki in a luxury setting.
Osaka Halal Mughal: Halal, vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly meals.
GF Ramen Lab: Gluten-free ramen made for sensitive diets.
Hasshoku: Japanese fermented food hall with miso, pickles, and more.
Le Bistrot & La Boulangerie: French dishes and pastries by Maison Kayser.
…and many more.
Here is a list of hotels across budgets near the Expo venue
Book tickets and visit dates early: Some days sell out quickly, especially weekends and national holidays.
Arrive by 10am: Early arrival helps you avoid long lines and cover more pavilions comfortably.
Use public transport: Parking is limited and private vehicles are not allowed; trains and shuttle buses are faster.
Download the official Expo app: Check pavilion opening times, queue lengths, show schedules, and get navigation help.
Carry a portable charger: Your phone will be essential for the app, QR code tickets, and digital maps.
Wear comfortable walking shoes: The Expo site is vast, and you may walk 8–12km in a day.
Plan your route by zones: Start with the most popular or limited-access pavilions to avoid long waits later.
Use cashless payments: The Expo operates fully cashless; have a contactless card or e-wallet ready.
Highlights from Osaka Expo 2025
National days and special days
Each participating country and international organization celebrates its own day with cultural performances and presentations.
Frequently asked questions about Osaka Expo 2025 tickets
Tickets include Night Tickets (entry after 5 PM), Weekday Tickets (valid Monday to Friday), and 1-Day Tickets (full-day entry any day of the week). All tickets provide access to all Expo pavilions.
After purchasing your ticket, register your 10-digit Ticket ID on the Expo 2025 registration portal. Then, select your visit date and time through the reservation section.
Yes. Popular pavilions have limited capacity. Visitors can enter 2-month or 7-day advance lotteries to secure time slots. Last-minute slots may open 2–3 days before your visit, depending on cancellations.
Yes. You can still explore pavilions on a first-come, first-served basis if you don’t win the lottery.
The Expo runs daily from 9am to 10pm, from April 13 to October 13, 2025.
Allocate at least 3–4 hours for a comfortable visit. Full-day access is recommended to experience multiple zones, shows, and pavilions.
Mornings and weekdays are ideal for shorter lines and cooler temperatures. Autumn offers the most comfortable weather for walking across Yumeshima Island.
Start with popular or limited-access pavilions in each visitor zone. The Expo site is divided into zones like Connecting Lives, Saving Lives, Empowering Lives, Signature, Forest of Tranquility, Future Life, East Gate, and West Gate.
Private vehicles are not permitted. Use park-and-ride facilities and shuttle buses. Accessible parking is available for visitors with disabilities.
Yes. There are shaded seating areas, nursing rooms, baby care spaces, prayer rooms, and accessible toilets throughout the site.
Services include NaviLens audio guidance, shikAI voice navigation for visually impaired visitors, wheelchair and stroller rentals, and multilingual support through the EXPO Translation App.
Yes. The Expo operates fully cashless. Bring a contactless card or mobile wallet.
Osaka Expo 2025 is a family-friendly event with interactive exhibits, fun activities, and engaging pavilions.
Apart from exploring the exhibits, the Osaka Expo 2025 offers activities including cultural performances, live entertainment, themed restaurants, VR experiences, nighttime illuminations, and immersive shows.
