The countdown to the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 has officially begun, as the event is just three months away. Starting January 13, 2025, the Japan International Exhibition Association (JIEA) kicked off lottery applications for advance bookings on some pavilions and events, aiming to manage crowd levels and reduce wait times at the Expo, which opens on April 13.
Due to the anticipated large crowds, certain pavilions will require prior reservations, allowing guests to control their visit schedule effectively. "We want to eliminate long lines at the Expo," said JIEA officials, highlighting their commitment to enhancing visitor experience.
The advance booking system applies to several categories, including eight signature pavilions, five domestic pavilions like the Japan Pavilion and Osaka Healthcare Pavilion, 11 private pavilions, and 12 pavilions by foreign nations and international organizations. The lottery application for reserved time slots will be open until February 12, 2025, with results announced the following day.
It is not only pavilions; certain events will also require advance bookings. For example, popular singer Ado will perform on the opening day, and fans wanting to attend her concert must apply between three and two months prior to the event.
Despite the additional booking options, ticket sales have struggled significantly as of late. A report from the JIEA indicated bulk purchases by companies dominate pre-sale ticket sales, constituting almost 80% of total sales, with individual ticket buyers making up less than 20%. This low engagement from the general public has prompted the Association to intensify its marketing efforts.
"If we can generate interest through the advance reservations, we believe ticket sales will rise as many people seek to engage with the Expo before it starts, " said JIEA representatives.
The newly introduced system allows visitors to secure reservations for pavilions and events based on their preferences. Participants can choose up to five options to increase their chances of winning slots at their desired pavilions on their chosen dates. Once they win, they can reserve one slot per pavilion for one designated time.
Visitors can also enter two more lotteries one month prior to their visit date to secure additional slots if any remain. Those who haven't reserved beforehand can still access certain pavilions on the day of their visit if capacity allows.
The Expo organizers are determined to create what they call the “no-line Expo” experience. This initiative follows last autumn's early-bird ticket sales program, which also implemented reserved lotteries limited to those who bought specially priced tickets.
Ticket purchases can be made online, requiring potential attendees to register for a “Expo ID” through the JIEA's dedicated website.
While pre-sale ticket numbers are not where the Association had hoped, executives remain optimistic. "We are hopeful interest will increase with the start of lottery applications and advance bookings," stated JIEA officials, reinforcing their belief the engagements will lead to a spike in ticket sales as the opening day approaches.
The Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 promises to showcase innovations, culture, and international collaboration. With the ticketing process now moving forward, the hope is for more engagement from the public, allowing for a vibrant and successful event come April.