Since opening its doors on 13 April, Expo 2025 in Osaka has seen a steady stream of visitors. As of mid-June, Expo 2025 has sold nearly 14 million tickets and has already welcomed 7.8 million visitors.
However, organisers of Expo 2025 had initially aimed to receive 28 million visitors by the end of the Expo in October. This has raised questions about whether or not Expo 2025 has been a success so far, not just financially but also as a platform for international cooperation.
This is the second in a series of articles on Expo 2025. In this article, Diplomatic Network (Asia) judges the current state of Expo 2025.
Financial Challenge
Osaka 2025 has faced the strain of public opinion due to the high financial cost of the event, with the total cost nearly doubling from its initial estimate to JPY¥235 billion, equivalent to around USD$1.64 billion.
Factors contributing to this spike in cost include a weaker Japanese yen, tariffs, and economic struggles amid global conflicts, as well as the lingering effects of the Coronavirus Pandemic.
It has been a challenging decade for international events, with the previous Tokyo 2020 Olympics also held in Japan beset by Pandemic-related problems. Additionally, the previous Expo 2020 held in Dubai was delayed by a year, and the recent history of Expos in the Twenty-First Century has seen similar financial challenges.
Additionally, Expo 2025 faced the ironic problem of large crowds when it first opened. Promises made by organisers of a “line-free Expo” were unfulfilled as long queues led to further criticism of the Expo on social media.
Another criticism has been the pricing of Expo 2025 for visitors. An article by Sora News, which defended Expo 2025 from most of the criticism it has faced, still argued that the entire experience remains overpriced.
Despite these setbacks, Sachiko Yoshimura, head of Expo 2025, remains a believer in the importance of the Expo. “I believe this Expo in Japan might actually lead to stronger international relationships and improvements,” said Yoshimura.
Praise and Wonder
Expo 2025 remains a spectacle for many visitors, offering a great opportunity for different nations to showcase their cultural and technological marvels.
The most eye-catching piece of the entire Expo is the Grand Ring, now recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest wooden structure on Earth. Built in a traditional Japanese style, the Grand Ring received criticism for taking up 14% of the entire Expo’s budget. However, the abstract beauty and environmental message of the structure have left a strong impression on visitors.
Among other highlights are the vast array of national pavilions, ranging from theatrical to serene in their appearance and exhibitions.
Austria’s pavilion is focused on celebrating the rich Western musical culture of Austria. Meanwhile, Bahrain’s pavilion aims to reflect the nation’s seafaring heritage with its structure resembling a traditional dhow boat.
As for Singapore, the nation has decided to create a “Dream Sphere”, a giant, red sphere with the initials “SG” proudly displayed. Two weeks ago, the Singapore pavilion observed its millionth visitor, marking a milestone for the Expo. With Singapore’s National Day on the horizon, live performances are scheduled in the Singapore pavilion.
