Japan is gearing up for the upcoming World Expo 2025, scheduled to take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, with several promotional events highlighting the innovative technologies and cultural exchanges expected at the exhibition.
Japan Airlines (JAL) has proudly stepped up as the sponsor of the "Smart Mobility Expo - Advanced Air Mobility" within Expo 2025, presenting its immersive theater experience, "SoraCruise by Japan Airlines." This initiative aims to showcase the future of air travel through flying cars, known as eVTOLs (electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft), and intends to give visitors a taste of next-generation mobility.
Set within the "Advanced Air Mobility Station" at the expo, the "SoraCruise" experience promises to be truly unforgettable. Incorporation of immersive solutions provided by Sony PCL Inc. allows the theater to leverage realistic images, 3D sound technology, and haptics—providing viewers with vibrations to replicate the sensations of being airborne. Visitors are invited to enjoy flight experiences over Osaka and other picturesque locations, allowing them to visualize the dramatic shifts on the horizon of air mobility.
"SoraCruise" will run for approximately 15 minutes utilizing four screens set up to give audiences panoramic views, enhancing the immersion with realistic visuals throughout the experience. The theater highlights JAL's longstanding commitment to air mobility since 1951 and demonstrates its aspirations for the future of transportation.
On the other side of the globe, the Japanese Embassy in Brazil hosted an event on March 12, 2025, focused on promoting this year's World Expo. The gathering coincided with the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil. During the event held at the ambassador's residence, Ana Repezza, representative of the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency, shed light on Brazil's pavilion at the expo, which is themed on creating a brighter future through the harmonious coexistence of humanity, forests, and animals.
Repezza expressed hope for visitors to discover "a new Brazil" through the exhibition, emphasizing the pavilion's focus on nature and innovation. The Brazilian government is considering sending Vice President Geraldo Alckmin to the expo on June 21, 2025, Brazil's national day for the event, signifying the importance of the Expo to Brazil's international image.
Teiji Hayashi, Japan's Ambassador to Brazil, highlighted the strengthening relationship between the two nations, stating, "Relations between Japan and Brazil have become stronger in recent years." This strengthening bond is evident with Japan waiving visa requirements for Brazilian travelers since September 2023, facilitating record tourist numbers—over 80,000 Brazilians visited Japan last year, reflecting increased cultural exchange and interest.
The promotional event also featured samples of Japanese sake and performances of noh, a traditional Japanese theatrical art form, presenting attendees with cultural experiences reflective of Japan’s rich heritage.
Looking toward future international visits, Brazilian President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva is slated to make a state visit to Japan later this month, indicating high-level diplomatic engagement. Conversely, Princess Kako, daughter of Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, is scheduled for an official visit to Brazil early June 2025, illustrating the reciprocal nature of these diplomatic efforts.
With the stage set for Expo 2025, both Japan and Brazil are emphasizing their dedication to promoting cultural exchanges, tourism, and innovation through collaborative efforts. The countdown continues as nations gear up for what promises to be a landmark event celebrating global connectivity, sustainability, and the future of mobility.