Osaka World Expo 2025: Dates, Ticket Prices, and Attractions

What Is the Osaka Expo 2025?

Expo 2025 Osaka is a world exhibition that runs from April 13 to October 13, 2025, showcasing cutting-edge technology, cultural exhibits, and futuristic innovations.

Highlights include national pavilions, interactive displays, and the stunning Grand Ring, a massive wooden structure with panoramic views located on Osaka's Yumeshima Island.

Whether you’re into tech, culture, or unique experiences, the Osaka Expo offers something for everyone. With six months of events, it’s a must-visit for travelers to Japan.

Main Venue of the Osaka Expo 2025

Picture courtesy of PR Times

The Osaka Expo will take place on the island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay to the west of Osaka’s main transport hubs.

The venue consists of national pavilions hosted by countries from around the world and domestic pavilions operated by companies and manufacturers from Japan.

There will also be a series of large spaces where performances and inspiring talks are set to take place. Visitors will also be able to enjoy food from around the world inside the Expo National Day Hall.

Highlights and Pavilions at the Osaka Expo 2025

The Osaka Expo site features three distinct zones:

- The Green World, a seaside park with event space and a transportation hub;
- Pavilion World, a central circular promenade housing themed pavilions focused on "Saving, Empowering, and Connecting Lives";
- Water World, a seaside plaza with food and water-based event staging overlooking the Seto Inland Sea.

Read on to learn some of the highlights.

1. National Pavillions

The national pavilions will offer visitors a taste of each nation's art, culture, and cuisine, featuring unique architecture, live performances, and diverse food options.

The pavilions of 43 official participants were announced as of early March.

2. Domestic Pavilions

Picture courtesy of PR Times

The domestic pavilions include Japanese companies and manufacturers featuring their latest technologies.

This area includes the Japan Pavilion, whose official website offers glimpses into the exhibits and activities that can be enjoyed throughout the event.

Another example is the GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE Pavilion. A central attraction of this pavilion will be a large-scale replica of the iconic RX-78 model Gundam, which has been a hallmark of the franchise since its beginning.

Please note that visitors must apply for a special lottery ticket to access the interior of the pavilion. This ticket is separate from the general admission to Expo 2025.

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Another exciting pavilion is The Land of NOMO, operated by Panasonic Group, which showcases experiential technology designed to nurture children's sensibilities and imagination.

Based on years of research into "understanding people," the pavilion offers the "Unlock Experience Area" (922 square meters), a 30-minute interactive session aimed at unlocking children's latent abilities. Furthermore, the "Daichi" exhibition (165 square meters) displays the group's technological vision for a future society.

Check the official website of Expo 2025 Osaka for details on other pavilions and highlights: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/

3. The Grand Ring

The Grand Ring. Photo by Pixta

A highlight of the Osaka Expo will be the Grand Ring, a massive wooden structure with an outer diameter of 615 meters, expressing the concept of "Unity in Diversity." It was built through a fusion of contemporary construction methods and the traditional joinery found in Japanese shrines and temples.

This stunning centerpiece will provide visitors with easy access to all the pavilions and serve as a primary means of navigating the World Expo site. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of various attractions from its elevated observation walkways.

Ticket Pricing and Purchase options

Tickets can be officially purchased through the Osaka World Expo official website in digital or printed format:

1. Digital ticket site: https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/

2. Printed ticket/voucher site: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/tickets-index/voucher/

Printed tickets and vouchers can be purchased at convenience stores and travel agencies.

Choose From 5 Ticket Types

1. Early-Bird Tickets

One-day passes are now available for a special early-bird price of 4,000 yen for adults. This discount will end on April 12th, the day before the Expo opens.

Additionally, tickets for the first half of the Expo period (April 13th to July 18th) can be purchased for 5,700 yen.

Lastly, an early-bird ticket that grants access at any time during the entire duration of the Expo is available for 6,700 yen.

2. Multi-Entry Passes

Multi-entry passes are available in two types: a season pass for 30,000 yen and a summer pass for 12,000 yen.

These passes allow holders to reserve up to two additional visits following their initial visit. This means you can schedule a second and third visit soon after the first, but you will need to make separate reservations for any subsequent visits.

3. Special Tickets

Individuals with disabilities, along with one accompanying guest, can enter the Expo with a special discounted ticket priced at 3,700 yen. To purchase this ticket, visitors must present a valid disability certificate as proof.

4. Tickets Sold During the Expo

Tickets available for purchase during the Expo include regular entry, weekday, and night tickets.

The regular entry ticket costs 7,500 yen and allows for a single entry to the Expo on the specified day.

A weekday ticket is priced at 6,000 yen, while the night ticket, which grants admission after 5 PM, costs 3,700 yen.

5. Group Tickets

The final type of ticket is designed for groups of 15 or more, including school groups visiting the Expo. A group ticket for 15 or more visitors costs 6,500 yen.

Other Ticket Purchase Methods

You can also purchase tickets from Japan Experience, a booking website that is officially affiliated with the Osaka Expo.

For details on the purchase method, you can also refer to our article linked below.

When to Visit the Osaka Expo

Given that the Osaka Expo 2025 spans an extended period, careful planning for your visit is essential.

The event will experience a range of weather conditions, from humid summers to the blustery winds associated with Japan's unpredictable typhoon season, making it important for visitors to prepare accordingly.

Visiting on weekdays is more economical, and attending after 5 PM offers another opportunity for cost-effective choices when exploring Expo 2025.

Osaka’s History Hosting the World Expo

Expo City. Photo by Pixta

Osaka has a rich history of hosting World Expos, beginning with Expo 1970—the first World Expo ever held in Japan. Located in Suita, north of the city, this landmark event showcased groundbreaking innovations and attracted over 60 million visitors.

The Expo '70 Commemorative Park has been opened to mark the event. Famous for the Tower of the Sun, a monument by sculptor Taro Okamoto, and for Expo City, a shopping and leisure facility, this park is a popular recreational spot among Osaka residents.

Now, more than 50 years later, Osaka is poised to host Expo 2025 on Yumeshima Island, further solidifying its legacy as a global hub for innovation, culture, and international exchange.

How to Access the Expo from Transport Hubs around Osaka

Access from Osaka/Umeda Station

Visitors can easily access the Osaka World Expo 2025 venue from Osaka/Umeda Station using public transportation.

Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Hommachi Station, then transfer to the Metro’s Chuo Line and ride directly to Yumeshima Station, which is the closest stop to the Expo site.

The entire journey takes approximately 20 minutes, providing a smooth and convenient option for attendees.

Access from Namba Station

From Namba Station, accessing the Osaka World Expo 2025 venue is quick and straightforward.

Simply take the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line to Hommachi Station, then transfer to the Chuo Line and continue directly to Yumeshima Station, the gateway to the Expo site.

The entire trip takes approximately 20 minutes, providing a seamless route for visitors.

Places to Visit Near the Osaka Expo Area

Universal Studios Japan

Photo b Pixta

Visiting Universal Studios Japan (USJ) while attending the Osaka World Expo 2025 is an excellent way to enhance your trip.

Located just a short train ride from Yumeshima, USJ provides a fun-filled escape from the Expo, featuring thrilling attractions, themed lands, and world-class entertainment.

Travelers can take advantage of their time in Osaka to enjoy both cutting-edge innovation at the Expo and the excitement of one of Japan’s top theme parks all in one visit.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Photo b Pixta

A trip to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan perfectly complements your visit to the Osaka World Expo 2025.

Just a short train or ferry ride from Yumeshima, this world-renowned aquarium offers an immersive experience of marine life, including the majestic whale shark.

Visiting Kaiyukan provides a relaxing break from the Expo and allows travelers to explore Osaka’s vibrant waterfront area, which features shopping, dining, and scenic harbor views.

Sakishima Cosmo Tower Observatory

Night view from the Sakishima Cosmo Tower Observatory. Photo b Pixta

The Sakishima Cosmo Tower Observatory provides a stunning bird’s-eye view of the entire Osaka World Expo 2025 venue.

Located just a short distance from Yumeshima, this 252-meter-high observatory offers a panoramic vista of the Expo grounds, Osaka Bay, and beyond.

Visiting before heading to the Expo can give you a unique perspective on the layout, while an evening visit allows you to see the site illuminated with dazzling lights.

Hotels to Stay at When Visiting the Osaka Expo 2025

1. RISONARE Osaka

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

RISONARE Osaka is a stylish 4-star hotel operated by the prestigious Hoshino Resorts. The hotel is located near Cosmosquare Station, making it a convenient choice for Expo visitors.

Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a terrace, along with free WiFi and a complimentary shuttle service to and from Kansai International Airport.

With on-site dining options and 24-hour room service, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to unwind after a day at the Expo.

2. The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan provides a comfortable and convenient stay near Universal City Station, just a 15-minute train ride from Yumeshima, the Expo 2025 venue.

The hotel features on-site restaurants, cafés, and shops, along with free WiFi and private parking, making it an excellent choice for travelers.

Guests can indulge in a Hawaiian-themed buffet, benefit from 24-hour front desk service, and enjoy amenities such as coin laundry and massage services. Its prime location is ideal for visitors looking to experience both Universal Studios Japan and Expo 2025 in one trip.

3. Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

Grand Prince Hotel Osaka Bay offers a luxurious stay with stunning views of the city and bay, just a short train ride from Yumeshima, the Expo 2025 venue.

The hotel has five restaurants, a fitness center, and both indoor and outdoor pools, ensuring comfort and convenience for visitors. It is located just a 3-minute walk from Nakafuto Station, making it easy to reach the Expo and nearby attractions like Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, which is only a 10-minute drive away.

With a free shuttle to Osaka/Umeda Station and airport limousine service, the hotel is an excellent base for travelers attending Expo 2025.

Volunteering Opportunities for Non-Japanese Residents

Applications for volunteering began on January 26, 2025. Volunteer duties will range from general cleanup of the venue to assisting with foreign language guidance.

There are two categories of volunteer roles: one involves working directly with visitors at Yumeshima, while the other includes being stationed at major tourist attractions to help guide visitors to World Expo 2025.

The requirements for applying are as follows:

- Applicants must be over 18 years old as of April 1, 2025.
- They must be able to communicate in Japanese.
- They must be able to participate in the interview process and attend in-person training.

The application can be done through the official website: https://www.expo2025-volunteer.com/pr/

Have a Great Time at the Osaka Expo 2025

The Osaka Expo promises to be an exciting event with many insightful exhibits and activities featuring the latest technological developments from around the world.

We hope you enjoy the event along with sightseeing in Osaka and its surroundings.

Main image by Pixta