Excursions Japan

Last week, I made my first visit to the Osaka Expo 2025 with a summer pass, and it exceeded all expectations. If you have the chance to visit Osaka before the Expo concludes in mid-October, don’t hesitate. In just one day, you can ‘travel the world’, experiencing diverse cultures while learning how various nations approach sustainability and innovation. I had such a fantastic time that I will return at least two or three more times.

GETTING THERE FROM KYOTO

Starting from Kyoto’s Demachiyanagi Station, I took an express train on the Keihan Line to Kitahama Station (10 stops, 54 minutes). From there, I transferred to the Sakaisuji Line (one stop, 2 minutes) to Sakaisuji-Honmachi, and then to the Chuo Line (eight stops, 23 minutes) to Yumeshima Station – the station located beside the East Gate. By following Google Maps’ transfer recommendations, I was able to move quickly between trains and secure a seat for both transfers. The total journey took about one hour and 40 minutes door-to-door.

For my next visit, I’ve booked a direct bus from Kyoto Station to the Expo’s West Gate.

ARRIVAL TIPS

A friend suggested booking an 11:00 a.m. entry slot to avoid the long queues at 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. From Yumeshima Station, temporary barriers make for a lengthy walk to the East Gate. The pathway is wide, so brisk walking can help you pass slower-moving visitors. Once I reached the gate, the bag check and ticket scan took only about five minutes.

This visit was more of a reconnaissance mission – I didn’t make reservations and refused to wait in long lines. Even so, there was plenty to see. The heat was intense, and I developed a heat rash on my lower legs.  If I could do it again, I’d cover less ground and spend more time in each venue. If you only have one day, plan a midday break. On my visit, crowds peaked between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. I left at 6:00 p.m., as many others were also heading out.

WHAT I SAW

I focused on smaller pavilions without lines, visiting Mozambique, Bangladesh, Senegal, Cambodia, Tunisia, Chile, Angola, and more. I explored Commons A and Commons B, two of the five pavilions where other countries are gathered. 

I also popped into the Dialogue Theater, Playground of Life: Jellyfish Pavilion, International Organization Pavilion, Forest of Civilization, and Earth at Night – Traditional Kogei, and the exhibition centre ‘Wasse’, where live performances and special events were taking place.

The only major pavilion I entered without a wait was the United Arab Emirates. It was a standout – spacious, with lots of natural light and giant columns covered in the wood of date palms.  The atmosphere was inviting and mysterious at the same time.  Exhibits were engaging and the staff, particularly the young Emiratis, left a lasting impression. One young man, speaking excellent Japanese, captivated a mixed-age group with his stories about the UAE—a welcome reminder of the power of cultural exchange in a world often focused on division.

For architecture enthusiasts, the Expo offers endless visual interest. The Grand Ring is especially striking—walk the elevated paths for bird’s-eye views of the pavilions, or stroll underneath to appreciate its engineering while enjoying the shady picnic spots favored by Japanese families.

GETTING AROUND AND STAYING COOL

To move between sections and escape the heat, I bought a day pass for the E-Mover shuttle (¥1,000). These buses circle the outer perimeter of the site. While not the most efficient transport option, they were uncrowded and provided welcome breaks from walking.

FOOD AND DRINK

Before going, I’d read countless warnings to bring a packed lunch due to high prices and long lines. While it was true that eating inside country pavilions was virtually impossible without a serious wait, there were affordable alternatives—food courts, cafés, restaurants, and food trucks—many without any lines.  With so many options, the biggest problem was what to choose!

THE RETURN TRIP

I returned via the same train route. Even during peak departure time, the ride wasn’t overly crowded, though I had to stand. To ensure a comfortable trip for the final leg (I didn’t want to risk having to stand the whole way), I reserved a seat in the Premium Car from Kitahama Station, which is always worth the additional ¥500.

I’m already looking forward to my next visit—and to sharing more insights from Osaka Expo 2025.