Expo 2025 Osaka Travel Guide: Must-See Attractions and Tips for a Smooth Visit A Real Journey to Experience Different Cultures and Japanese Traditions

As AI technology becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, the value of real-world experiences is being reevaluated.

The Expo 2025 Osaka, held on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka, offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with cultures and cutting-edge technologies from around the world.

In this article, based on the author's actual visit to the venue, we’ll introduce memorable pavilions, access tips, essential items to bring, and other useful information to help you make the most of your trip.

Saudi Arabia Pavilion

The Saudi Arabia Pavilion, with its beautiful architectural design, is making headlines daily on Japanese social media and attracting attention as the next host of the World Expo.

While the pavilion itself is impressive, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the waiting time as well.

By scanning the QR code placed near the landscaping, visitors can experience a VR attraction where they create their own miniature virtual garden.

Visitors can also watch live demonstrations of traditional basket weaving and textile crafts.

Inside the pavilion café, guests can enjoy Saudi Arabian coffee and light meals, with many enchanted by the rich aromas and flavors.

The full-service restaurant, known for authentic Arabian cuisine, often has a long line of people willing to wait for hours.

If you're interested, try searching for “サウジアラビア館 レストラン” (Saudi Arabia Pavilion Restaurant) on social media and translate Japanese reviews—you’ll find plenty of firsthand impressions.

China Pavilion

The China Pavilion features an exterior inspired by bamboo slips, an ancient writing medium.

Inside, the pavilion offers a well-balanced showcase of Chinese history, nature, and advanced technology.

A large screen at the entrance displays beautiful visuals based on the "24 solar terms" of the traditional Chinese calendar.

It’s highly recommended to take your time and enjoy this display at a leisurely pace.

Other highlights include exhibits of ancient bronzeware and moon sand samples.

Unfortunately, the author had to rush through the pavilion due to time constraints—so planning a relaxed schedule is recommended.

The Grand Roof

The "Grand Roof," the symbolic centerpiece of the Expo site, is one of the largest wooden structures ever built, made possible by the culmination of Japanese architectural technology.

It holds a Guinness World Record as the world's largest wooden structure. With a diameter of approximately 615 meters and a total circumference of around 2 kilometers, this elevated ring encircles the site.

Walking along the Grand Roof offers a "world tour from above" with panoramic views of the colorful pavilions.

Escalators and elevators are installed, making it accessible even for those who are not confident about walking long distances.

Depending on the time of day, the Grand Roof presents entirely different faces—from breathtaking sunsets to mesmerizing nighttime illuminations.

💡 Important Tips Before Visiting the Expo 💡

Don’t Confuse It with Expo ’70 Commemorative Park

Please be careful not to confuse Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Suita, Osaka with Expo 2025 Osaka.

The two locations are completely different. However, since the English name of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park includes “EXPO ’70,” it’s often mistaken for the current World Expo venue.

Expo ’70 Commemorative Park was the site of Japan’s first World Expo in 1970 and is now a public park and museum complex.

Even Japanese visitors sometimes confuse the two due to the similar naming.

Expo 2025 is being held on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka Bay.

When searching maps or planning your visit, be sure to look for “Expo 2025 Osaka (Yumeshima)” to avoid going to the wrong place.

Searching “Expo” on Google Maps shows both Expo ’70 Park and the current Expo 2025 venue.

Book Your Tickets in Advance
While same-day tickets are available, weekends and Japanese holidays are extremely crowded. Even on weekdays, the author had to wait more than 30 minutes with a reservation. Booking online in advance is highly recommended.

Be Prepared for Heat and Rain
Since there are few shaded or covered areas, prepare accordingly. Bring a hat, parasol, water bottle, raincoat, and foldable umbrella depending on the weather forecast.

Smartphones Are Essential—Don't Forget a Mobile Battery
Smartphones are needed for entry, reservations, payments, and digital attractions. Bring a portable charger to avoid running out of power.

Suitcases Are Not Allowed
Suitcases with wheels are not permitted inside the Expo. Storage at the gate costs around 10,000 yen per item. Use hotel lockers or a service like ecbo cloak instead. The author found this service very convenient when lockers were full at Tokyo Station.

Stop by Ikedaya Umeda Store!
After the Expo, why not stop by Ikedaya Umeda Store to find a uniquely Japanese souvenir? Located in the South Building of Grand Front Osaka, directly connected to JR Osaka Station, it’s easily accessible.

The store features handcrafted randoseru (traditional school backpacks) and leather goods made by skilled artisans. These bags are not just for school—they symbolize family care and Japanese craftsmanship.

Touching authentic Japanese craftsmanship after exploring global cultures adds a meaningful highlight to your journey.

Meet the World and Rediscover Japan
Expo 2025 Osaka is where cutting-edge technologies, traditional cultures, and global experiences intersect. Don’t miss this chance to experience real connections and discoveries firsthand!

Useful Links

• Expo 2025 Osaka Official Website
  Find official information, pavilion highlights, and ticket reservations.
• ecbo cloak (Luggage Storage Service)
  Easily find and book luggage storage spots near stations and tourist sites.
• Ikedaya Umeda Store on Google Maps
  Visit for authentic Japanese bags and souvenirs, inside Grand Front Osaka South Building.

Please note that this article is based on the author’s experience at the time of writing. Expo details, rules, and services may change without notice. Check official sites for the latest updates before visiting.