Osaka Expo Visits 27 & 28: September 10th & 18th

Scenes from the day...

Note: On visit #27, I had the opportunity to revisit the Indonesia Pavilion (visit#13), and the Future City Pavilion (this time with a guided tour - visit #5 ). I updated both original posts and added more pictures.

PHILIPPINES Pavilion:

The outside of the pavilion is made up of woven handcrafted textiles sourced from several regions across the country. Built into the façade, a digital screen brings it to life - showing artisans at work,  as if they are continuously weaving the pavilion itself.

Stepping inside, visitors are welcomed by a canopy of vibrant, colorful ribbons hanging from the ceiling, guiding us into the main space that reflects the traditions, craftsmanship, and respect for nature of the country.

 We are surrounded by woven tapestries that tell stories of heritage - each thread carrying the artistry passed down through generations. Light projections make the threads appear to ripple, and make you want to reach out and touch to see if the waters and waves are as cool as they seem, or the colorful petals soft and dewy. (See video snippet below pics.)

The journey then flows into the spectacular  “Dancing with Nature” experience. Here, the Philippines’ abundant flora and fauna spring to life in playful, interactive displays. Children and adults alike can move to the lively rhythms as animated figures of fruit and fish dance along to your movements—capturing the energy and warmth of the islands. Everyone loved this!

Did you know the Philippines is home to more than 7,641 islands and two-thirds of the world’s biodiversity? It is one of just 18 megadiverse countries on Earth.

Adding a modern twist at the end, an AI photo booth invites visitors to become art themselves. With themes of fish, plants, or flowers, each person is transformed into a colorful portrait of their ‘nature-al’ self.  I chose flowers—and delighted in becoming a real “flower girl.”

The Philippines Pavilion is a radiant tapestry of nature, culture, and community—woven together with hope for a better future.

Dancing fabrics and plants.

Osaka Expo is closing soon! Stay tuned... STILL more visits to come! ( I am writing as fast as I can.)

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