Which pavilion is the most popular at the Osaka Expo? Do you need a reservation?
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The EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, which is drawing global attention, will transform Yumeshima in Osaka Bay into a gateway to the future from April 13 to October 13, 2025 (184 days).
As the event approaches, pavilions like Panasonic Group’s The Land of NOMO (pictured above) have been built and are being set up inside.
The event is so big that it would be impossible to see all the pavilions in just a day or two. Many visitors will want to plan which pavilions they want to see in advance.
Here, we highlight some of the most popular and interesting pavilions, including those that require reservations and international exhibits that you won’t want to miss!
Top 5 Popular Pavilions at Osaka Expo 2025
“EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai” will feature 47 international pavilions, 17 Japanese pavilions, 8 signature theme pavilions, and 13 corporate pavilions. Out of all these, there are five that are especially popular.
1st Place: Japan Pavilion
The Japan Pavilion at EXPO 2025 Osaka is the most anticipated one. It represents the idea of a “laboratory for future society” and is the country’s most prominent pavilion.
It cost about ¥36 billion to build. The pavilion shows off Japan’s appeal—from robotics and digital art to traditional culture. While full details remain secret, highlights include Doraemon, Japan’s beloved character, serving as a guide.
–Official Name: Japan Pavilion
–Highlights: Robotics, digital art, traditional exhibitions
–Location: Signature Pavilion Area (central venue)
–Estimated Visit Time: ~2 hours
–Reservation Urgency: ★★★★★ (Strongly recommended)
2nd Place: Monster Hunter Bridge (Osaka Healthcare Pavilion)
A standout attraction in the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion (one of Japan’s national pavilions) is Monster Hunter Bridge by Capcom.
This attraction uses augmented reality (AR) devices, a 360-degree theater, 3D sound, and vibrating floors to make visitors feel like they are in the world of the Monster Hunter games.
Given the global fan anticipation, reservations are highly recommended.
–Official Name: XD HALL Monster Hunter Bridge (within Osaka Healthcare Pavilion)
–Highlights: Step into the Monster Hunter universe
–Location: Short walk from Osaka Metro Yumeshima Station
–Duration: ~1.5 hours
–Reservation Urgency: ★★★★ (Recommended)
3rd Place: Gundam Pavilion
This pavilion is all about Japan’s famous Gundam franchise. It combines entertainment with advanced technology, attracting fans of all ages. It is very popular, so it is best to make a reservation.
–Official Name: GUNDAM Future Technology Pavilion
–Highlights: Life-sized Gundam displays, next-gen tech exhibits
–Location: Entertainment Pavilion Area (West Zone)
–Duration: ~1.5 hours
–Reservation Urgency: ★★★★ (Recommended)
4th Place: Yoshimoto Warai Myraii Pavilion
Produced by Yoshimoto Kogyo, Kansai’s leading entertainment agency, this pavilion uniquely combines Japanese comedy culture with cutting-edge technology. While it’s not famous worldwide, it’s very popular in Japan, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation.
–Official Name: Yoshimoto Warai Myraii Pavilion
–Highlights: Interactive comedy experiences, next-gen entertainment tech
–Location: Entertainment Pavilion Area (South Zone)
–Duration: ~1.5 hours
–Reservation Urgency: ★★★★ (Recommended)
5th Place: null² (Yoichi Ochiai Pavilion)
Curated by media artist and researcher Yoichi Ochiai, null² challenges the lines between technology and nature. Its mysterious exhibits are already popular on social media.
–Official Name: null² (Null Square) Yoichi Ochiai Pavilion
–Highlights: Immersive digital art installations
–Location: Art Pavilion Area (North Zone)
–Duration: ~1 hour
–Reservation Urgency: ★★★ (Recommended during peak times)
Final Checklist for Enjoying Osaka Expo Pavilions
This article has introduced popular pavilions at EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai. Each pavilion has interesting exhibits, so it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.
To get the most out of your Expo experience, follow this checklist:
–Admission ticket/QR code: Display on smartphone.
–ID: Required for verification.
–Smartphone: For pavilion reservations and maps.
–Portable charger: Crucial for long visits.
–Expo official app: Reservations and updates.
–Foldable umbrella/raincoat: Sudden rain preparedness.
–Sunscreen/hat: UV protection for outdoor areas.
–Handkerchief/towel: Restroom or sweat management.
–Backpack: Keeps hands free.
–Comfortable shoes: Expect 10,000+ steps daily.
–Rainy-day plan: Target outdoor pavilions (indoor ones get crowded).
–Weekdays preferred: Less crowded than weekends.
–Monitor SNS: Real-time crowd updates often shared online.
–Ask staff: They know hidden gems and current wait times.
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