How to Plan Your Visit to EXPO 2025: Tickets, Routes & Must-See Spots

Key Takeaways 

Plan Early for Popular Pavilions 
Entry to top attractions like the Japan Pavilion or Signature Pavilions (e.g. Better Co-Being, Earth Mart) often requires a lottery reservation. Register your Expo ID early and use the Personal Agent App to secure your spots. 

Navigate with Purpose 
With eight themed zones and over 150 country and corporate pavilions, it’s essential to plan your route. Don’t miss the Grand Ring for panoramic views and key landmarks like the East and West Gates for smooth entry.

Use the Right Apps for a Better Visit 
The Expo Personal Agent App helps you with reservations and real-time updates, while the Visitors App and Translation App make exploring and communicating a breeze. 

EXPO 2025: A Peek Into the Future 

According to Julianna Molnar, our Content Manager the EXPO 2025 “It’s not just about innovation and technology—it’s about celebrating the connection between all of us and exploring the ways we can live together in the future. That’s the real story of EXPO 2025.”

The theme of the Expo is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”. It is held on Yumeshima, an artificial island in the Osaka Bay. As usual for a World Expo, the Expo is on for a long period of time – 184 days, to be exact: from April 13 to October 13, 2025. So, even if you start planning your trip now, you’re still on time to make it to the Expo! 

The EXPO 2025 Site 

EXPO 2025 is taking place on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka Bay. The island itself is 1.55 kilometres squared, and easy to access from central Osaka via the extended Osaka Metro Chuo Line, shuttle buses, and even ferries. There are two entrances to the Expo: The East Gate and the West Gate, and visitors will come across the East Gate when arriving by the metro line at Yumeshima Station. 

The first structure that you’ll likely notice at the Expo site is the Grand Ring: the symbolic centrepiece of EXPO 2025, the Grand Ring is a massive circular structure  encompassing the centre grounds of the Expo. It is 2025 metres in circumference, 600 metres in diameter, and on average, 13 metres high. Designed by world-renowned architect Sou Fujimoto and embodying the expo’s theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, the Ring is covered in greenery and the timber used for the structure was sourced from the 47 prefectures of Japan.

With elevators, escalators and stairs helping the access to the top, an unmissable to-do at the Expo is to make it to the top of the Grand Ring and take a stroll enjoying the panoramic views of the colourful Expo grounds and its surrounding sea, city and mountains. Especially at sunset, it is truly breathtaking! Julianna, our Content Manager summed it up: 
“The Grand Ring is not just a structure—it’s an experience. Go up around sunset and you’ll understand why people talk about it so much.” 

Pavilions and Thematic Zones 

At EXPO 2025, in addition to the main theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, there are three big subthemes which the exhibitions focus on: Saving Lives, Empowering Lives, and Connecting Lives. These subthemes are reflected in the pavilion exhibitions and special projects happening at the Expo. 

The Expo site consists of a total of eight zones for different thematic exhibitions. They are: 

• Connecting Lives Zone: located in the north side inside the Grand Ring, this zone is hosting official participants’ pavilions according to the Expo’s sub-theme “Connecting Lives”. 

• Saving Lives Zone: located in the west side inside the Grand Ring, this zone is hosting official participants’ pavilions according to the Expo’s sub-theme “Saving Lives”. 

• Empowering Lives Zone: located in the east side inside the Grand Ring, this zone is hosting official participants’ pavilions according to the Expo’s sub-theme “Empowering Lives”. 

• Signature Zone: located in the southern side inside the Grand Ring, this zone features special pavilions bringing the main theme of the Expo. 

• Forest of Tranquillity Zone: located in the very centre of the Grand Ring, this zone is a tranquil forest without pavilions, a relaxing green space in the heart of the Expo. 

• Future Life Zone: located in the western end of the Expo site, featuring an EXPO Vertiport and the EXPO Arena – a huge outdoor event venue. 

• East Gate Zone: located around the East Gate of the Expo site, this zone features pavilions from Private Sectors and Local Governments, and the Japan Pavilion and the Expo Hall “Shining Hat”. 

• West Gate Zone: located around the West Gate of the Expo site, this zone features pavilions from Private Sectors and the EXPO Exhibition Centre, hosting various events.

All in all, there are three kinds of pavilions at the Expo:

• Official Participants’ Pavilions: pavilions of all participating international countries and organisations such as the UN and the International Red Cross. 

• Domestic Pavilions: Japanese pavilions of local governments, prefectures, which includes pavilions from private sector participants like Kansai Region, Panasonic, and Mitsubishi.

• Signature Pavilions: eight pavilions led by Japanese producers offering a variety of experiences combining the real and the virtual world, encouraging the creation of a broader perspective.

For the Expo official map, click here. 

Recommended Pavilions to Visit 

EXPO 2025 offers a kaleidoscope of cultural experiences and cutting-edge innovation across three main types of pavilions. Here are some of the standout highlights that you shouldn´t miss: 

Signature Pavilions – Better Co-Being, Earth Mart & Null2 

Among the eight Signature Pavilions, Better Co-Being stands out as one of our favourites. Designed by renowned architecture studio SANAA, collaborating with researcher Hiroaki Miyata and art curator Yuko Hasegawa, it explores a future of shared resources and interconnected lives. Located in a corner of the Forest of Tranquillity, the open-air pavilion with no walls or roof blends nature and technology, resembling a network of trees or data streams. The interactive group-experience in Better Co-Being, led by a mysterious stone “echorb”, invites us to reflect on co-existence and the sustainability of our lives. 

Another highly recommended visit is the Signature Pavilion of Earth Mart, a paradise for foodies and sustainability enthusiasts. It showcases the diversity of food, the unseen ways it arrives to our plate, world-wide food fun facts and customs, innovative food tech and children’s creative ideas, and helps visitors reflect on the importance of coming together around the table. By the end of this visually engaging, surprising, and multi-sensory journey, you’ll be astounded by the value of every bite. Entry is via lottery only. 

For those drawn to absorbing, one-of-a-kind experiences, we recommend the null2 Signature Pavilion. Null2 is another one of the Signature Pavilions, designed by NOIZ architects in collaboration with producer and visionary media artist, Yoichi Ochiai. With the objective of “Forging Lives”, null2 offers an immersive experience that blurs the lines between physical and digital lives. The centrepiece is the Mirrored Body, a digital human infrastructure powered by blockchain and AI that creates a virtual alter ego for each visitor, and through interaction, body and data are merged in real time. Wrapped in a reflective, interactive design by Keisuke Toyoda, the pavilion blurs the line between self and technology, inviting fresh insight into the future of life. Entry for the full experience is via lottery only, and additional numbered tickets are distributed every day for a shorter programme inside the pavilion. 

Private Pavilion – Gundam Next Future Pavilion & Panasonic Pavilion 

A paradise for anime fans and tech aficionados alike, Bandai Namco's Gundam Next Future Pavilion is an inspiring dive into the future of robotics and imagination. Visitors can take a virtual trip from Yumeshima’s Space Port to “Star Jaburo” via an orbital elevator, set in a new Universal Century. Outside, a life-sized Gundam statue awaits as a fan-favourite highlight. More than a showcase, the pavilion connects fans worldwide and invites everyone to imagine the future through the lens of Gundam. Note that while there’s limited English signage, the experience transcends language. Reservations via lottery or same-day registration are required. 

For families with younger children, we recommend visiting is the Panasonic Group Pavilion, themed “The Land of Nomo”: a fun, family-friendly adventure where kids and parents can explore a magical world together. Visitors are invited to “Unleash” their heart, body, and mind through an immersive sensory journey. Holding a special crystal device, you'll walk through a misty space filled with exciting sounds and colourful visuals, uncovering new dimensions of yourself. For extra fun, watch the original anime online before your visit to make the experience even more exciting for the whole family. Entry is managed through the lottery and the same-day booking system.

Country Pavilions – Japan, UK, USA, Germany & Italy

A highlight not to be missed, the Japan Pavilion takes center stage as the host nation, embracing the theme “Designing a Future Society for Our Lives.” Designed by acclaimed architects Nikken Sekkei and Nendo, with producer Oki Sato, this pavilion delves into Japan’s vision for society beyond 2025-offering a poetic fusion of nature, innovation, and harmony. Under its unique sub-theme “Between Lives,” the pavilion showcases Japan’s sustainability efforts, including biogas power generation from food waste and cutting-edge carbon recycling technologies, making it easy to understand by popular Japanese characters such as Hello Kitty, Doraemon and BE@RBRICKS. By demonstrating a circular approach to energy and resources, the pavilion inspires visitors to adopt eco-conscious behaviours and envision a more sustainable future shaped by Japanese innovation and responsibility. . Access is via lottery, though limited free-entry time slots are available daily (9:30–10:30 and 19:30–20:30), so plan ahead to secure your visit. 

Beyond Japan, several high-profile national pavilions deliver memorable experiences: 

United Kingdom Pavilion explores future societies through the lens of creativity, AI, and sustainability. With immersive sound design and narrative storytelling, it reflects on the power of cultural exchange and technology. 

United States Pavilion presents innovation in space exploration, AI, and green technologies, spotlighting the American spirit of entrepreneurship and future-forward thinking. 

Germany Pavilion, “Wa! Germany” created by LAVA – Laboratory for Visionary Architecture, invites visitors to explore the future of circular living through sustainable architecture and interactive exhibits. “Wa” means circle, harmony, and wow: the pavilion itself is a showcase of circular design, blending innovation, nature, and wonder into one inspiring experience. 

The Italy Pavilion celebrates the theme “Art Regenerates Life,” blending Renaissance-inspired design with Italian creativity, beauty, and craftsmanship. With daily performances at 6 PM and iconic artworks like the Farnese Atlas and Tintoretto’s and Caravaggio’s artworks on display, it transforms into a living gallery of wonders. 

These pavilions are walk-in friendly, though queues can form during peak times. Plan your route early or check real-time availability using the Personal Agent App. 

Tip: While many country pavilions allow walk-ins, some host special performances or workshops—check the Personal Agent App for the latest updates and schedules. 

Events at the Expo 

Practically, every day is a special day at EXPO 2025. There are eight official stages and several pop-up stages where exciting events take place every day! Each day is designated as a National Day or a Special Day, which honour the participation of the international participating governments and organisations and aim to deepen the understanding of their cultures and contribute to the promotion of international goodwill.

For the Expo official event calendar, click here.
For the Expo pop-up stage calendar, click here. 

While most of the stage events are free of charge and everyone is welcome to watch them, some have limited capacity, so make sure to check the entry requirements on the Expo Personal Agent App – more on that later! 

Recommended Events 

Water Show “Under the Midnight Rainbow” 

• Held every day at 19:10 (between May 1st and August 31st: 19:30) and at 20:30 

• A spectacular show performed on the Water Plaza, a large water surface on the south side of the Grand Ring 

• Features water, air, light, fire, image projection and music

Japan Fireworks Expo  

• Japan’s leading firework displays will gather from all around the country 

• Held on special dates only: April 26th (Sat), May 31st (Sat), June 28th (Sat), July 21st (Mon), July 23rd (Wed) - special show, August 23rd (Sat), September 27th (Sat), October 8th (Wed)

• Location: Yumeshima South Side Sea Wall – best to watch from the top of the Grand Ring or the Water Plaza 

Registering Expo Tickets and Lottery System 

Getting into EXPO 2025 is only the first step. If you want to experience the most sought-after pavilions, it’s essential to understand the lottery system and how to register: 

1. Get Your Expo ID & Ticket 
Start by purchasing your ticket and registering an Expo ID through the official ticket portal. Your Expo ID allows you to access the reservation and lottery system. 

2. Reserve Your Visit Date & Time 
Even with a valid ticket, you must reserve your visit date and time. You can do this from 6 months before your visit. Group reservations are also possible if you input others' Ticket IDs. 

3. Enter the Pavilion Lottery 

• 2-Month Advance Lottery: Opens from 3 months to the day before 2 months prior to your visit. 

• 7-Day Advance Lottery: Opens from 1 month to 8 days prior to your visit (closing at 9am the day before). 

• You can apply for both types via your Expo ID accounton the official ticket webpage. Each lottery supports up to 14 ticket holders at once. 

4. If You Miss the Advance Lotteries 
Don’t worry. From 3 days to 1 day before your visit (until 9am), check for available slots online. As our Content Manager puts it: 
“Even if you didn’t enter any lottery, don’t get put off, because there are still a million things to do at the Expo, and so many pavilions that you can enter freely!” 

5. Same-Day On-Site Registration 
After entering the Expo site, you can register for available pavilion slots and events at the designated On-Site Registration Terminals or the On-Site Registration Centre, or on your smartphone via the official ticket page. This opens 10 minutes after you enter the venue. 

6. Track Everything with the Personal Agent App 
Use the Expo 2025 Personal Agent App to plan routes, monitor crowds, and track your reservation schedules in real-time. It’s your essential Expo companion. 

What You Should Know Before Visiting the Expo 

Weather & Comfort: 

• Dress in breathable clothing; Osaka can be hot and humid. 

• Bring sun protection: hats, parasols, sunscreen. 

• Refillable water bottles are recommended; free refilling stations are widely available. 

Cashless System: 
EXPO 2025 is fully cashless. Bring credit cards or digital payment methods (e.g., e-money, QR code apps). 

Entry Restrictions: 
Luggage with wheels, such as suitcases, and large baggage (over 600 x 400 x 900 mm) are not allowed inside the Expo grounds. Suitcases and luggage carts exceeding this size, and any kind of wheeled bags must be stored off-site. While a small number of lockers are available at the East and West Gates, they are very limited and fill up quickly. For convenience, visitors are advised to use official large-baggage storage services at Benten-cho and Sakurajima Stations, or opt for a delivery service to hotels or accommodations. Walking aids and medical equipment with wheels are permitted.

Other restrictions to be aware of: 

• Beverages in cans and glass bottles, alcoholic beverages are not allowed. 

• Drones, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed. 

• Pets are prohibited (except service dogs). 

• Bag checks are conducted at entry points.

Smoking: 
The site is smoke-free, with designated smoking zones outside the East Gate. Re-entry is possible with staff guidance. 

Helpful Apps: 
Expo Personal Agent App 
For viewing your existing reservations, real-time crowd monitoring, and route planning. 
Download on iOS or Android 

Expo Visitors App
Pavilion listings, event schedules, general info (no login needed). 
Download on iOS or Android 

Expo Translation App
Live voice and text translation in 30+ languages. 
Download on iOS or Android 

This is what our Content Manager suggests after spending a week at the EXPO 2025 “Use the Personal Agent App as your Expo brain—track crowds, plan your pavilion visits, navigate on-site, and view your reservations all in one place.” 

Accessibility 
Personal mobility vehicles are available for rent. Wheelchair-accessible facilities and accessible parking (via reservation) are provided near the East Gate. 

Navigation & Movement 
Purchase an English paper map on-site (200 JPY) at the Information Centre near the East Gate, or navigate digitally. Electric buses available (400 JPY/ride or 1000 JPY/day).

Planning ahead with the right tools will make your EXPO 2025 experience smooth, exciting, and memorable. 

Include EXPO 2025 in Your Next Japan Travel Plans 

Now that you know what to expect from EXPO 2025, it’s time to start planning your trip!

The expo is set to be a very popular event, so it’s best to start booking in hotels and activities as early as possible.

Given that the expo will span over 184 days, that gives you some good options to tailor the trip to fit your schedule and needs. If you’re not good with the heat and humidity, it’s best to go towards the beginning or end of the expo dates. But if you don’t mind the heat, according to the website, they expect the final days of the expo to be the busiest, so try visiting during the middle.

EXPO 2025 and Beyond 

Going to the expo is also a good excuse to visit other parts of Japan. If you want to do that, you can make your travel easier by getting yourself a Japan Rail Pass or one of the other regional passes through us!