With just six months remaining until the Osaka-Kansai Expo, special events were held in Tokyo and Osaka on Sunday. The events included a guest appearance by Olympic gold medalist Hifumi Abe. Masakazu Tokura, chairman of the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren) and the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, spoke at Toranomon Hills in Tokyo’s Minato Ward. He mentioned that construction of the pavilions is progressing well and that more details about the events are being revealed. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also delivered a video message expressing his hopes for a successful Expo.
During the Tokyo event, it was announced that paper tickets for the Expo are now available for purchase at convenience stores and other outlets. Additionally, ticket holders can now reserve a specific date and time to visit. Hifumi Abe, along with his sister Uta, shared their excitement about visiting various pavilions during their time at the Expo. They expressed particular interest in visiting the Japan Pavilion on its opening day.
In another ceremony held in Osaka’s Dotonbori district, a 30-second video showcasing features such as the Grand Roof was displayed on Sunday night using Glico sign – an iconic landmark.
These commemorative events served as reminders of what is to come at this highly anticipated international exhibition set to take place next year in Osaka-Kansai.