Osaka Expo Visit #2: April 18, 2025

Second Visit to Expo 2025—With a Game Plan! I've mapped out my strategy: visit twice a week and aim to experience at least three pavilions each time. Reservations disappear fast, and lines can be long without one—so planning ahead is key!

Today was Friday, and the perfect way to kick off the weekend. Unlike Opening Day, the sun was out and the weather was beautiful!

I visited the U.S. Pavilion, Commons A (buildings that house smaller countries' booths), and the Thailand pavilion (thankfully had a reservation for that one, so the wait was minimal). I'm getting the hang of the pre-reservation system—you can check same-day availability for time slots or brave the general admission lines. Some pavilions, like the U.S., don’t offer reservations at all, but the wait wasn’t bad. Chatting with people in line from all over the world makes the time fly by!

A Dazzling Journey Through the U.S. Pavilion

Towering digital screens wrapped around the structure, broadcasting breathtaking images of America’s vast landscapes—mountains, deserts, coastlines, large and small cities—each frame capturing the beauty and scale of the United States. It was a striking welcome, and we hadn’t stepped inside yet.

Spark, the cheerful pavilion mascot, led the way as we entered. We launched into an immersive digital experience that felt like standing in the well of a rocket on a launchpad, seconds from liftoff. The visuals, the sound, the energy!

What moved me was seeing the diversity of the U.S.—its people, its places, its dreams—projected larger than life, and watching the crowd react with audible gasps of awe. It made me feel good. The U.S. is beautiful, complex, creative, and still full of possibility. I only hope we do not squander the appeal we have always enjoyed in the world. The pavilion focused on innovation, space exploration, and the boundless creative spirit that defines our identity and asks that we keep asking ourselves to “imagine what we can create together.”  

Exploring the World in COMMONS – A

At Expo 2025, smaller countries are showcased in shared spaces known as Commons Buildings—and each one is like stepping into a global neighborhood. Inside these communal pavilions, each country has its own booth or mini-exhibit with cultural displays, friendly representatives, and often interactive experiences.

One of the standouts for me was the Kenya room, where I took part in their immersive VR experience that transported me across Kenya’s stunning landscapes, introduced me to its people, and highlighted it's business potential. It was dizzying—in the best way! Another fun surprise was their interactive “Sample Bar.” By moving small, sensor-equipped pucks—each representing a different traditional instrument or even hand claps—I got to create my own piece of Kenyan music. I have a video of me loving the experience!

Another unexpected gem was the Kyrgyz Republic. Their space was beautifully decorated with traditional textiles, intricate carvings, and cultural artifacts. Their video presentation swept us across the country's mountain ranges and showcased ancient stone dwellings, nomadic lifestyles, and the ‘looks so cool’ art of falconry. I had no idea!!

At the Ghana booth, I captured a lovely moment (with permission) of a Japanese woman embracing the experience of being dressed in stunning traditional Ghanaian attire, complete with accessories. Cultural exchange in action.

Commons – A was like a mini world tour, within the expo world tour, in one building!

Thailand Pavilion: Welcome to Culture and Care

The Thailand Pavilion, with its glass roof soaring toward the sky, and carved wooden elephants at the entrance, greets visitors with the famous Thai warmth and grace.

Inside, a vibrant mural illustrated the diverse regions of Thailand, leading us into a theater to watch a 3D film depicting its lush landscapes, tranquil temples, and moments of everyday life, while also spotlighting Thailand’s strengths in healthcare, wellness, and holistic living.

Although I have been to Thailand several times and was very familiar with its natural beauty and cultural heritage, I was not fully aware of the scope of its global reputation as a medical and wellness destination. The combination of advanced healthcare, traditional healing practices, and an emphasis on holistic well-being has made Thailand a place where people from all over the world come to heal, recharge, and thrive.

As I was taking note of the country’s impressive achievements in healthcare and wellness, I missed out on getting in line for a free mini-Thai massage! But luck was on my side. Just as I exited the pavilion, I was right on time for a Thai dance performance! Dancers in ornate costumes moving with grace and precision was a perfect way to end my visit to the pavilion.

Stayed tuned for more visit recaps...