Switzerland is showcasing its innovative spirit and rich heritage at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, through its pavilion, which opened on April 13, 2025. The event, which runs until October 13, features an immersive program titled "From Heidi to High-Tech," designed to highlight the nation's evolution from its Alpine roots to a leader in cutting-edge technology.
The Swiss pavilion, inaugurated in the presence of National Council President Maja Riniker, aims to raise awareness of Switzerland's capabilities among the public and Japanese decision-makers. According to the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), the exhibition reflects Switzerland's dual identity as both a guardian of its natural heritage and a global hub for innovation.
Heidi, the beloved character from Johanna Spyri's children's book, serves as the official mascot of the pavilion. This choice symbolizes the historic friendship between Switzerland and Japan, a relationship that celebrated its 160th anniversary in 2024. "Heidi embodies the warmth and charm of Switzerland, making her an ideal ambassador for our pavilion," said Ambassador Alexandre Edelmann, head of Presence Switzerland, which oversees the Swiss representation at the expo.
The pavilion spans 260 square meters and features a unique architectural design characterized by spheres made from a thin, resistant membrane supported by lightweight structures. This eco-friendly approach emphasizes Switzerland's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. The pavilion is expected to attract over 1.5 million visitors during the six-month event.
In collaboration with Swissnex, the Swiss network for education, research, and innovation, the pavilion's scientific program focuses on three themes: "Augmented Humanity," "Life," and "Planet." These themes aim to engage visitors in discussions about the future of society and the role of innovation in addressing global challenges.
As Japan is Switzerland's most significant export market in Asia, the pavilion serves as a strategic platform to strengthen economic ties. Switzerland is also one of the largest foreign investors in Japan, making the expo an essential venue for promoting Swiss interests in the region. "The Swiss Pavilion must act as an accelerator for the defense of Swiss interests in Japan," Edelmann explained.
The World Expo 2025 is expected to host around 28 million visitors and features participation from 158 countries and eight international organizations. This marks the second time Osaka has hosted the World Expo, the first being in 1970. The overarching theme for this year's expo is "Designing the Society of the Future, Imagining Our Life of Tomorrow," aligning with Switzerland's vision of a sustainable and innovative future.
Visitors to the Swiss pavilion can explore interactive exhibits that illustrate the country's advancements in technology while also enjoying a taste of its rich cultural heritage. A boutique and the "Heidi Café," offering panoramic views of the expo site, complement the experience, allowing guests to relax and reflect on the unique blend of tradition and modernity that Switzerland represents.
As the expo progresses, the Swiss pavilion is poised to play a vital role in fostering dialogue and collaboration between Switzerland and Japan across various sectors, including politics, business, and science. The initiative not only showcases Switzerland's achievements but also reinforces its commitment to building strong international partnerships.
In summary, the Swiss pavilion at the World Expo in Osaka serves as a vibrant testament to the nation's innovative spirit, ecological consciousness, and rich cultural heritage. By bridging the gap between its Alpine past and high-tech future, Switzerland invites visitors to engage with its story and explore the possibilities that lie ahead.
