Expo 2025 Osaka: A Game Changer for Tourism in Japan

Published on October 19, 2025

The curtain has fallen on Expo 2025 Osaka, which officially closed on October 13, after welcoming over 28 million visitors to the Japanese city over the past six months. Held on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay, this international exposition left a profound impact on tourism in Japan, showcasing cutting-edge innovations, global cultural exchanges, and sustainable solutions. As the Expo concluded, it not only captured the world’s attention but also cemented Osaka’s position as a must-visit destination in Asia.

The Expo’s theme Designing Future Society for Our Lives brought together 161 countries and regions, along with nine international organizations, offering visitors a unique chance to explore groundbreaking technologies and cultural exchanges from all corners of the globe. It was a rare opportunity for tourists to engage with exhibitions that tackled some of the most pressing issues of our time, such as health, environmental sustainability, and the digital transformation of society.

One of the most significant outcomes of Expo 2025 was its impact on local tourism. Domestic visitors were the primary attendees, boosted by a strong recovery in Japan’s tourism sector following the pandemic. However, the Expo also attracted tourists from across the globe, giving Osaka an international spotlight. The event helped promote Japan’s rich culture, innovation, and values, especially through its architectural marvels like the Grand Ring, a vast wooden structure designed by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto. This iconic symbol of unity and creativity became one of the main draws for visitors, reinforcing Osaka’s reputation as a hub for modern architecture and design.

The city of Osaka saw a noticeable increase in hotel bookings, restaurant patronage, and overall tourism infrastructure. Reports suggest that the Expo created an economic ripple effect, benefiting sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and retail. The Japan Tourism Agency estimated the economic boost from the event could reach several trillion yen, demonstrating the power of international events to fuel local economies. Hotel occupancy rates surged, and the introduction of extended rail and ferry services made traveling to Yumeshima more accessible to tourists, further promoting Osaka as a convenient and attractive travel destination.

Throughout its six-month run, Expo 2025 Osaka featured exhibitions that explored themes like climate action, food security, and the future of mobility, all of which resonated with visitors seeking innovative and sustainable experiences. Many of the pavilions combined traditional cultural elements with emerging technologies, offering a unique blend of the old and new that captivated tourists. This blend of culture and innovation showcased Osaka as a place where the future is always in the making.

However, the road to Expo 2025 was not without its challenges. Initially, the event faced delays and rising costs, but organizers quickly adapted, ensuring that all pavilions opened as scheduled in April 2025. Despite these early hurdles, the event was a resounding success, providing visitors with an immersive experience unlike any other.

In addition to the impressive displays of innovation, many tourists were drawn to the Expo’s gastronomic offerings, another major highlight of the event. With food stalls offering both traditional Japanese cuisine and international dishes, visitors were treated to a diverse range of flavors, further enhancing Osaka’s reputation as a global culinary capital. The combination of culture, food, and technology made Expo 2025 an event for all senses, ensuring a lasting memory for all who attended.

As the event draws to a close, the legacy of Expo 2025 Osaka will continue to benefit the region for years to come. Efforts are already underway to determine how the Expo’s venues, including the Grand Ring, will be repurposed for future use. The infrastructure investments made for the event have set the stage for future tourism in Osaka, ensuring that it remains an attractive destination for both business and leisure travelers alike.

The Expo has also positioned Osaka as a leader in sustainable design and international collaboration. By bringing together nations from around the world, the event proved that innovation and inclusivity can help create a better future for all. For Japan, Expo 2025 was not only a showcase of cutting-edge technology but a testament to the country’s ongoing commitment to global engagement.

As tourism in Osaka continues to flourish post-Expo, travelers can expect an array of experiences that blend the best of tradition and modernity. The Expo has undoubtedly paved the way for more international visitors to explore Osaka’s vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and its ongoing journey toward a sustainable future.

Looking ahead, the next World Expo will be hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2030, but Expo 2025 Osaka will remain a benchmark for how global events can drive tourism, economic growth, and international cooperation. For those who missed it, Osaka will remain a top destination on the global tourism map, with Expo 2025 leaving a lasting impression for years to come.