Osaka Expo 2025: Tips, Highlights & Everything in Between
While we were in Osaka this year, we had the chance to visit the much-anticipated Osaka Expo 2025—and wow, what an experience! In this post, we’re sharing everything you need to know (and some of the things we wish we knew before going): how to get there, what to expect, and why this massive global event is so worth it. Whether you're a first-time visitor or planning ahead, here's your inside look.
How to Get to Osaka Expo 2025 + Transport Prices
The Expo takes place on Yumeshima Island, a man-made island in Osaka Bay. Getting there is pretty straightforward, especially if you're already in Osaka.
By Metro: The easiest way is to take the Chuo Line to the newly extended Yumeshima Station (built just for the Expo!). From Osaka Station, it takes around 30 minutes.
Price: Expect to pay about ¥280–¥350 (2–3 EUR) one way, depending on your starting point.
IC Cards: Use your ICOCA, Suica, Kansai One Pass or PASMO for quick and easy entry—super convenient.
Tip: It can get very busy, especially on weekends, so plan to travel earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
Ticket Prices & How to Book
We bought our Expo 2025 tickets through Klook, which was super easy and convenient. The tickets are usually valid for an entire month, but that doesn’t mean you can just show up any day. Here's what you need to know:
Step 1: Buy Your Ticket
You can get tickets via platforms like Klook or official resale partners.
Price range (adult): approx. ¥3,700 (about €23)
Children's and senior discounts are available.
Step 2: Register Your Visit on the Expo Website
This part is crucial. After purchasing your ticket, you must go to the official Expo 2025 website to:
Register your ticket using the code (one per person).
Enter all personal details (name, all details, etc.)—this is mandatory.
Select the exact day and time slot you want to visit.
Pro tip: Do this as soon as possible—mornings fill up FAST, especially for popular dates like weekends and holidays.
Once your ticket is registered, it becomes locked to that specific day and time, so choose wisely!
Pavilion Reservations: Some Are Mandatory
Not all pavilions are walk-in friendly—some of the most popular ones only allow entry with a prior reservation. One big example is the Kansai Pavillion, which has amazing stamps and information about all cities of the Kansai region.
There are four reservation windows:
2 months in advance
7 days before
1 day before
Same day
By the day-of, most prime spots (especially in the morning) are already fully booked. We recommend booking your preferred pavilions as soon as your visit day is confirmed. This can be done in the official website once you have your tickets registered.
Inside the Expo: What It Looks Like
Walking into the Expo is like stepping into the future. The layout is massive and beautifully organized around the main theme: Designing Future Society for Our Lives.
Expect to find:
Country pavilions (think: Japan, Germany, Portugal, USA, Italy, and so many more!)
Themed zones with futuristic architecture
Interactive exhibits, sustainability showcases, and cultural experiences
A lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes
It’s not just about tech—many countries have set up immersive experiences, games, cultural shows, and more. The place is huge, but super walkable thanks to the way it’s all laid out. We do recommend at least 2 days if you really want to go to every single pavillion and experience everything (including getting all those stamps)!
How It's Set Up
The whole Expo is built around this giant circular walkway called the Grand Ring. You can actually stroll around the whole place on this elevated path surrounded by plants and cool views. It’s a great way to take a break from the action and soak it all in.
The Expo is split into cool little “zones,” each with its own vibe:
Signature Zone – This is where the big, dramatic stuff is. Think futuristic architecture, light shows, big-picture ideas about where the world is going.
Future Life Zone – Super techy, super fun. You’ll see innovations, robots, and all kinds of wild concepts for how we might live in 2050.
West Gate Area – A mix of exhibitions and brand pavilions with some really unexpected experiences (we found a few hidden gems here!).
East Gate Area – Mostly country pavilions, including the Japan Pavilion, which is stunning. There’s also a big performance space here. And stamps…a lot of them…cue Sara being too excited
Connecting Lives Zone: Here you can dive into exhibits that explore how technology and innovation bring people together.
Empowering Lives Zone: Mainly so you can discover advancements aimed at enhancing individual capabilities and societal well-being.
Saving Lives Zone: Focuses on health, safety, and disaster prevention technologies.
Forest of Tranquility Zone: A serene area designed for relaxation and reflection amidst nature. This is one of the best places for you to have a break from all the chaos!
If you want to check out the full map, you can check it here. We do suggest you download the official app, since you can have access to the whole map whilst walking inside the Expo!
What to Eat at the Expo
You're in Japan, so of course food is a highlight! You’ll find:
Japanese classics like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, ramen, and sushi
International street food from every continent
Cute dessert stands with Expo-themed sweets. There was also Spy family merch and other anime merch (but super expensive)
Vegan/vegetarian options (though more limited—plan accordingly). We actually tried them and they were amazing!
Food prices are a bit higher than average, so expect to pay ¥800–¥1,500 (5–10 EUR) per dish.
Cashless payment is everywhere, so bring your credit card or IC card!!
Cool & Unique Things to Do + What to Buy
This was one of our favorite parts—the Expo has so many unique things to see, do, and collect:
Stamp Booklet Craze
We bought an Expo stamp booklet and became obsessed. Nearly every corner has a stamp station—pavilions, food stalls, even rest stops. It’s a super fun way to track where you've been! And honestly an amazing souvenir, according to Sara! But brace yourselves, because there is a crazy amount of stamps to collect!
Monster Hunter VR Experience
Yes, it’s real—and so cool! You do need to reserve in advance though, and it’s very popular. If you’re a fan, book early.
Insane Merch
The merchandise is NEXT LEVEL. And you even have lines to enter the shops, so be prepared! Some highlights:
Exclusive Expo t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags and everything in between! You will not know where to start!
Limited-edition BE@RBRICKs with Expo branding and many other exclusives (these are insanely popular so the lines are extra insane)
Country-themed goodies (handmade crafts, toys, mini souvenirs in each pavillion)
The food. I mean… the food. The themed food is just adorable and you just want to buy them all honestly. From cup noodles, to cookies to castella cake!
Anime x Expo 2025 exclusives, from anime like Spy Family, Dragon Ball and many others!
Other Important Things to Know
No smoking areas inside – smokers, take note: there are no smoking zones within the premises, so plan accordingly.
Crowds – It can get packed, especially around popular pavilions. Stay hydrated and pace yourself.
Weather – Spring and autumn are perfect, but summer can be HOT. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle.
Accessibility – The complex is wheelchair-friendly and offers stroller rentals as well!
For us, the highlight wasn’t just the exhibits—it was the whole vibe of the space. The design is beautiful and futuristic, but still peaceful and green.
And we genuinely loved learning about so many countries—some we hadn’t considered visiting before are now officially on our bucket list!
Whether you're into tech, travel, food, or just experiencing something completely unique—Osaka Expo 2025 is a must-see. Book early, wear comfy shoes, bring a sense of wonder… and maybe an extra bag for all that cool merch.
Let us know if you have questions or if you're planning to go—we’re happy to share more tips!
