Osaka Expo Visit #26: September 8, 2025

ITALY Pavilion

My visit to the Italy Pavilion began with music! I was fortunate to score a ticket to a concert by one of the resident classical orchestras. Sitting in the pavilion’s intimate auditorium felt like stepping into a private performance where time slowed down. The music enveloped me, dissolving all outside cares. Each note stirred wonder and opened space for quiet reflection. With the melodies still lingering in my mind, I then stepped into the pavilion’s exhibition.

The pavilion, themed “Art Regenerates Life,” captures the essence of Italia! Open spaces — a vibrant piazza, coffee, panini, and gelato vendors, a theatre, a lush garden atop the pavilion, and a restaurant. In the past, there was a vegetable garden in front of the pavilion, bursting with delectable produce.

More than an architectural showcase, it is a sustainable hub of creativity, design, craftsmanship, and all things Italy. It highlights the country's long-standing traditions that gave the world masters in art, music, design, science, and technology.

It is a living laboratory where art, technology, and nature meet—celebrating heritage and forward-thinking ingenuity. The value Italy places on the art of living life, community, and the well-being of all is clearly evident - I learned that Italy has the largest over-65-year-old population in Europe. This vibrant, productive demographic adds billions to the economy and is key to intergenerational collaboration and knowledge sharing. They are the heart of the country.

One of the most popular destinations at Expo, the pavilion constantly changes to spotlight the abundance of Italy—from diverse regions and master artisans to culinary excellence, aesthetic brilliance, and cultural and business achievements.

Update on October 7th: Pictures from 2nd pavilion visit. A stunning violin concert and Casa Stradivari, celebrating Lombardy, and the Italian me, courtesy of AI.

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