If you’re planning a once-in-a- lifetime holiday, 2025 is the perfect time to visit Japan. Not only does the country offer a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation, from ancient temples and cherry blossoms to neon cityscapes and bullet trains—but it will also be hosting one of the world’s most ambitious global events: Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai.
Running from April 13 to October 13, 2025, this six-month event will transform Osaka into a global stage for cutting-edge ideas, culture, and sustainable living. Whether you’re a first-time traveller to Japan or a seasoned explorer of its islands, cities, and mountain towns, basing your trip around the Expo is an unforgettable way to experience the country at the height of its creative and cultural energy.
Welcome to Yumeshima Island
Expo 2025 will take place on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka Bay designed to host large-scale events and eco-friendly development. The Expo site spans over 150 hectares and is built around a striking circular wooden structure, designed by renowned architect Sou Fujimoto. Visitors can stroll along its rooftop pathways for stunning views over the bay and skyline—a literal high point of the Expo experience. Yumeshima is just a short trip from central Osaka thanks to an extension of the Osaka Metro Chūō Line, making it easy to combine days at the Expo with evenings in the city’s vibrant districts like Namba and Umeda.
Designing Future Society for Our Lives
The overarching theme of Expo 2025 is ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” This future-forward concept will be explored through pavilions, exhibitions, and live experiences focused on solving global challenges, improving quality of life, and embracing innovation with humanity at its heart. With over 150 participating countries and organisations, each pavilion will showcase different visions of what a better future could look like—from sustainable cities and green energy to inclusive technologies and advances in healthcare. It’s an opportunity to literally walk through the future.
Innovation and Attractions
One of the most exciting things about the Expo is the real-world tech on display. Think hydrogen-powered vending machines, smart infrastructure, autonomous mobility, and interactive exhibits that invite you to take part in shaping tomorrow. Global brands and creative collaborators will showcase how they’re tackling everything from climate change to food scarcity to health equity. For example, Cartier’s Women’s Pavilion will explore the role of women in creating a more equitable future—one of many exhibitions designed not just to impress, but to inspire.
Cultural Significance
Hosting a World Expo is a prestigious honour, and for Japan, it’s a moment of national pride. This will be the second World Expo held in Osaka (the first was in 1970), and the event is expected to draw 28 million visitors from around the world. This means you can expect an electric atmosphere across the city and beyond. Hotels, restaurants, and public spaces will be buzzing with international energy—and Japanese hospitality will be on full display, from themed cuisine to special exhibitions in nearby museums. Things to Consider When Planning Your Trip If you’re thinking about using Expo 2025 as the centrepiece of your Japan holiday, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Book Early: Accommodation in Osaka (and nearby Kyoto and Kobe) will book up quickly, especially during peak months like April (cherry blossom season) and August.
- Transport is Easy: Japan’s world-class train system makes it easy to explore other parts of the country before or after your visit to the Expo.
- Buy Tickets in Advance: Expo tickets will be released in phases, with different options for day passes, multi-day entry, and VIP access. Booking in advance helps you avoid queues and guarantees your preferred dates.
- Travel Insurance & Apps: With such a large international event, it’s wise to ensure you’re covered for any delays or changes. Also, download useful apps for translation, navigation, and Expo-specific guides.
- Time Your Trip: Spring offers cherry blossoms; summer brings festivals and fireworks; autumn offers stunning foliage. Each season brings a different side of Japan —plus new programming at the Expo.