World Expo opens in Osaka amid global uncertainty

Highlights and architectural wonders

Notable attractions include a Mars meteorite, a beating artificial heart grown from stem cells, and Hello Kitty algae sculptures. The Expo grounds are encircled by the “Grand Ring,” the world’s largest wooden structure, which also offers a panoramic skywalk.

Messages of peace and resilience

Amid geopolitical challenges, participating nations shared symbolic messages. Ukraine’s pavilion, marked “Not for sale,” displays items used to restore power after Russian attacks. Russia is notably absent. Israel’s pavilion features a stone from the Western Wall and promotes peace, while the Palestinian booth also takes part. The U.S. pavilion highlights AI, nature, and space, while China focuses on green technology and lunar samples.

Unique exhibits and futuristic concepts

Visitors can enjoy the world’s longest sushi conveyor belt or explore quirky innovations like a “human washing machine.” The Swiss pavilion emphasizes sustainability, while futuristic displays include drone-like flying vehicles and a tiny artificial heart shown for the first time.

Concerns over sustainability and legacy

Despite its impressive design, only 12.5% of the Grand Ring will reportedly be reused after the Expo. Critics have raised concerns about the temporary nature of such events and the future redevelopment of the site into a casino resort.

Low enthusiasm and ticket sales

The Expo faces lukewarm domestic interest and budget overruns. Only 8.7 million advance tickets have been sold—well below the 14 million target. Still, early visitors, like Emiko Sakamoto, expressed excitement and saw the event as a source of hope and reflection in turbulent times.

Looking ahead

As the first World Expo in Japan since 1970, Osaka 2025 seeks to balance cutting-edge exhibits with global dialogue and cultural exchange, offering a brief but ambitious vision of a more connected and innovative world.