Preparation for the Osaka-Kansai World Expo is ramping up as it approaches its opening date set for April 2025. On January 3, 2025, 100 days before the event, Osaka's iconic Tsutenkaku Tower lit up with bright red and blue colors, symbolizing the spirit of the Expo. The lighting event included messages such as "Here we go! Expo!" and "The Expo is approaching!" displayed on large screens, igniting enthusiasm among locals and visitors alike.
With excitement building, Nara Hotel has launched the "Winter WESTER Campaign" from January 6 to February 28, 2025. This promotional initiative allows WESTER members who use hotel facilities or spend over 5,000 yen at the hotel’s restaurants and shops to enter for the chance to win pairs of tickets to the Osaka-Kansai Expo. Founded in 1909, Nara Hotel celebrated its 115th anniversary last year, emphasizing its unique historical offerings to guests. The hotel is conveniently located about one hour by public transport from the Expo venue, making it accessible for visitors from Nara.
The campaign aims to draw attention to the upcoming Expo and create connections for attendees. Nara Hotel invites both existing and new members to participate, promoting local engagement and hospitality during this important cultural moment. With the hospitality sector supporting the Expo, it reflects the collaborative effort to showcase Japan’s culture and innovation.
Construction news highlights the Expo’s centerpiece, the large wooden ring named "The Ring." This remarkable structure is primarily constructed from cross-laminated timber (CLT) sourced from Ehime Prefecture, crafted by local company Cypress Sunadaya. CLT is popular due to its strength and eco-friendliness, representing modern architectural advances. "EHIME-sourced materials symbolize human connections," stated Yutaro Sunada, the company's executive, emphasizing the structure's role as not just a building but as part of the Expo experience, welcoming visitors from around the world.
Support for the Expo includes other regional events such as the Setouchi International Art Festival set to occur in Kagawa, coinciding with the Expo, aiming for synergistic effects. Local government efforts are underlining the interconnectedness of these events, showing the importance of community spirit and participation.
These initiatives and constructions serve to establish Osaka as a vibrant destination poised for international attention. The excitement for the Osaka-Kansai World Expo continues to grow, symbolizing Japan’s commitment to innovation, hospitality, and global cultural exchange.
With all eyes on the region, the Osaka-Kansai World Expo is not just about showcasing new ideas and technology, but also about fostering connections between cultures and communities. This approach offers visitors insights not only from Japan but from around the world as they come to celebrate this significant global event.