Osaka Expo Visit #25: Sept. 1st, 2025

Scenes from the day...

BELGIUM Pavilion

Stepping into the Belgium Pavilion felt like entering a future where medicine, technology, and humanity converge—a future built on both hope and healing.

With its spotlight on healthcare and biotech, Belgium showcased its long legacy of medical breakthroughs while showing us a glimpse of what possibilities lie ahead with human-centered technologies in the life sciences.

The pavilion envisioned medicine not just as a way to treat illness, but as a proactive force—designed to anticipate and prevent disease before it begins. It shows that a healthier, more humane world is built with collaboration and care. A vision of care where technology strengthens, rather than replaces, the human touch.

A highlight was the “Flowers of Hope” installation, created to symbolize hope and uniting the Belgian tradition of children making crepe paper flowers - signifying hope and resilience in the face of health challenges - and the  Japanese tradition of Kintsugi, repairing broken objects with gold.

Belgium’s message was clear: the future of healthcare lies not only in innovation but in our ability to care for each other.

SWITZERLAND Pavilion

Switzerland—renowned for innovation and precision worldwide, as well as for timeless charm—brings these qualities to life in its pavilion. Designed as three airy, interconnected orbs, and 'light as alpine air,' the pavilion explores the themes of humans, life, and the planet.

The journey begins with a striking ironwork-like mural—a stenciled artistic installation that traces Switzerland’s story through history, iconic landmarks, alpine traditions, and the achievements of its celebrated citizens. I saw cows too!

Visitors are then invited to share their wishes for the future, which magically transform into floating bubbles—drifting through space for us to try and catch - our hopes and dreams made real, but as in life, a bit elusive also.

Swiss innovation in sustainability and human well-being is highlighted in the “Geneva Portal” - a massive spherical display inviting visitors to imagine and co-create their possible future and transports them into landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse communities, with powerful messaging— a vivid blend of art and science.

Then all too soon, an alpine farewell as the tour ends on a whimsical and Swiss-miss perfect note, the chance of a photo op with none other than Heidi herself.

International Organizations at Expo

International organizations are also represented at Osaka Expo. These global institutions work tirelessly across borders to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

They go beyond national agendas. They focus on servicing humanity, ensuring political and economic stewardship, and fostering cooperation in areas where no single country can succeed alone. From tackling climate change and food insecurity to advancing education, healthcare, and sustainable development, their work touches every corner of the globe.

They represent the essence of collective action. They showcase solutions that are not only innovative but also inclusive—designed to uplift communities, protect our planet, and promote peace and prosperity for all.

In a world facing complex, interconnected issues, these organizations embody the very spirit of the Expo: that progress is only possible when nations and people come together in service of a shared future.

Only 2 weeks left of the Osaka Expo! Stay tuned... Still more visits to come.

NOTE: I am writing and giving online talks about my Expo visits to share the wonders, innovations, inspiration, and cultural richness of EXPO Osaka 2025 with those who are interested but unable to attend.

*All pictures and videos by Yvonne Burton