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【Opening Soon!】 Osaka Expo Guide Part 2: All About Events, Shows, and the Flying Car!

2025.03.28

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai opens on April 13, 2025. Promotional events and sneak previews are happening all around Osaka, building momentum for the event♪

Continuing from the Part I of the Osaka Expo Guide, Part II covers the latest updates on Expo’s events and shows, the flying car test flight, and Yumeshima Station, the closest station to the Expo site.

Events – Every Day is a Special Day at the Expo

Cutting-edge technologies from around the world will be on display at the events and shows held almost daily during the Expo. These innovations promise to amaze and inspire visitors. Curious about what they are? Let’s take a closer look at some of the exciting technologies you will experience!

Image of the Expo Osaka, Kansai Events [Top left image] One World, One Planet hosted by the Association | Rendering 2025 ©Expo 2025
[Top right image] Courtesy of Suntory Holdings Limited / Daikin Industries, Ltd.
[Bottom left image] EXPO National Day Hall, image of the interior ©Expo 2025
[Bottom right image] One World, One Planet hosted by the Association | Rendering 2025 ©Expo 2025

①One World, One Planet, A Spectacular Show of Light, Sound, and Technology

One World, One Planet hosted by the Association | Rendering One World, One Planet hosted by the Association | Rendering 2025 ©Expo 2025

One World, One Planet will take place across all areas of the Expo venue every evening at twilight. This spectacular show combines light, sound, and technology, brightly illuminating Yumeshima as the sun sets.

Around 1,000 drones will project the theme of “Wishes” into the evening sky, while the Grand Roof (Ring) will glow in purple, symbolizing twilight, creating a magical experience where you are immersed in light.✨

Additionally, stunning projection mapping will light up the exterior walls of the Expo Hall “Shining Hat”, creating an interactive space that immerses you in a dreamlike world.

One World, One Planet hosted by the Association | Rendering One World, One Planet hosted by the Association | Rendering 2025 ©Expo 2025

The twilight sky is never the same each day. Would the show then offer a different experience each day? Each season? It’s exciting just thinking about the beautiful 360-degree view you might encounter, with every angle offering its own special scene♪

Another great feature of One World, One Planet is that you can experience the show virtually, following along with the live production at the actual venue.
Simply post your wish for the planet’s future or for someone’s happiness or health through the app, and watch the virtual One World Tree grow in AR. Don’t miss the chance to see how the tree blossoms, fueled by the wishes and compassion sent from all over the world.

②Under the Midnight Rainbow, A Spectacular Show of Water and Air

Under the Midnight Rainbow | Rendering Courtesy of Suntory Holdings Limited / Daikin Industries, Ltd.

Under the Midnight Rainbow is a spectacular display of water and air, held every night during the Expo.
Witness the story of “celebration” brought to life by creatures in a vast space choreographed by water, air, and light, all set under the enchanting midnight rainbow.

Born on Earth billions of years ago, water and air have witnessed it all. They now teach us “what actions we need to take now.” Uncover the clues about the “significance of living with an awareness of air” and “happiness for all lives” throughout the show.

Protagonist, Ao, and the Dodo, the spirit of air Courtesy of Suntory Holdings Limited / Daikin Industries, Ltd.

The story begins when the protagonist, Ao, encounters the miraculous “midnight rainbow”.

―A rainbow across the moon. A mysterious celebration.―

is a saying on the island where Ao begins to connect with various creatures including Dodo, the spirit of air. It is a magical tale of life that weaves together humans, nature, and creatures.

Under the Midnight Rainbow | Rendering Courtesy of Suntory Holdings Limited / Daikin Industries, Ltd.

Along with the captivating storyline, the production design is truly remarkable.
With an 8,800 square meter stage that spans 200 meters in width and 60 meters in depth, the show is expected to be one of the greatest aquatic performances in Expo history.

Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the show blends water, air, light, fire, visuals, and music to create an awe-inspiring spectacle. In a striking contrast, there is a moment of “silence” in the midst of the show, allowing visitors to truly experience the air, wind, and scents in this outdoor setting, making everything feel incredibly real.
Get ready for a show that will touch your heart. I, for one, can’t wait to see it…

③Special Days and National Days by Official Participants

EXPO National Day Hall, image of the interior EXPO National Day Hall, image of the interior ©Expo 2025

On Special and National Days, the 102 official participating countries invite both guests and the general public to celebrate their unique cultures. These events, held almost daily throughout the Expo, offer visitors the chance to experience a variety of cultures from around the globe.
It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the culture of a country you’ve been wanting to visit!

👇Be sure to check the Event Calendar for each country’s schedule.
https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/events/

The Flying Car Test Flight✨

SD-03, a flying car on exhibit at OMO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts

A flying car, currently under development for the Expo, is aimed to fly between two points―one within the Expo site and one outside.
Demonstration flights are scheduled throughout the Expo, drawing global attention.

What would it be like when flying cars become a reality?
Travel time would be drastically reduced, but what’s even more exciting is that it would revolutionize the world of tourism. Imagine enjoying an ariel view of Osaka Castle while traveling from one point to another, or admiring the bird’s-eye-view of the Umeda or Tsutenkaku Tower areas at night.

Light projection at MO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts in collaboration with Expo 2025

We heard that OMO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts in Shinsekai area was hosting an exhibit and a test flight of a flying car, so we decided to check it out.

The hotel, in collaboration with SkyDrive Inc., the developer of the flying car, is offering LIVE events where you can experience a sneak peek into the future of travel through test flights and dynamic exhibits♪

Hinata-chan from Osaka Metro Nine’s editorial team even got to try out the test flight!

A test flight of the flying car, SD-03

How was the test flight, Hinata-chan?

Hinata-chan:
When I first saw it, the flying car looked like a giant drone! It was unlike any car or helicopter, and I was immediately excited by the new, unfamiliar machine. The door opened upward, like the cockpit of a small aircraft, and I felt a little nervous as I climbed into the seat. Inside, there was just enough space for one person, giving a cozy, tucked-in sense of comfort.

If flying cars become reality in the near future…I can only imagine how much more exhilarating travel will become, with new views and experiences we’ve never had before. I’m so excited to see what the future holds at the Expo.✨

If you’re interested in flying cars, I highly recommend the event at OMO7 Osaka♪

Event Information: I’m in Love With EXPO LIVE! ~ Flying Car Edition ~
Dates: February 13 – April 21, 2025
May 12 – June 30, 2025
September 1 – October 13, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm – 8:00 pm (The flying car SD-03 is on display at all times.)
Location: OMO Base (at OMO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts)
Admission: Free for hotel guests with a paid stay
Languages: Japanese, English

※This event is exclusive to guests staying at the hotel.
※There will be no LIVE events from April 22 to May 11, and from July 1 to August 31.
※Event dates are subject to change. Please check the official website of OMO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts for the latest information.
※The prototype SD-03 on display is different from the model scheduled for demo flights at the Osaka Expo (SkyDrive SD-05).

Learn about the Expo at What is “Naniwa” Lecture series Learn about the Expo at What is “Naniwa” Lecture series: Available in English
Available for a limited time only: OMO Doteyaki Burger Set and OMO Okonomi Dog Available for a limited time only: OMO Doteyaki Burger Set and OMO Okonomi Dog
Expo Support, image Local guides, known as EXPO rangers, provide information about the Expo, including how to get to the Expo site and how to purchase the tickets. Available in English.
EXPO Tsunagatten Exhibition EXPO Tsunagatten Exhibition: Available in English

In addition to flying car test flights, OMO7 Osaka offers a variety of events and services to promote the Expo, including a special Expo-themed menu, lectures on ways to enjoy the Expo, and Expo support services. Be sure to check OMO7 Osaka’s homepage for event details!

Osaka Metro’s Newest Yumeshima Station

Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai will be held on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay.

Opened in January 2025, Osaka Metro’s newest station, Yumeshima Station, is located right at the site of Osaka Expo, providing easy access. It takes about 40 minutes from the Shin-Osaka Station or 30 minutes from Namba Station to reach the Expo site♪

Osaka Metro’s newest Yumeshima Station

As you pass through the ticket gate, you’re greeted by a large escalator and staircase, bathed in sunlight. The station’s simplistic, white above-ground gate creates an exciting sense of arrival as you head toward the Expo venue.

Inside of Osaka Metro’s newest Yumeshima Station

The interior of the station features a sleek, neo futuristic design, with black as the main color and Chuo line’s green as an accent. Yumeshima Station blends traditional and innovative design. Its highlights include:

①Origami-inspired Ceiling
The beautiful ceiling is designed with a motif inspired by origami, a traditional Japanese craft.

②All-gender Restrooms
Restrooms are inclusive and have individual stalls for everyone’s comfort.

③The Longest Digital Displays in Japan’s Underground Spaces
At 3 meters high and 55 meters wide, These massive LED displays are among the largest in Japan’s underground spaces. The diverse images they display warmly welcome visitors and create a lively atmosphere as they make their way to the Expo venue.

④Expansive Pillar-free Space
The B1 floor is a vast, pillar-free space with a clean, open feel.

Inside of Osaka Metro’s newest Yumeshima Station

Yumeshima Station also provides convenient features such as Wi-Fi rental boxes, mobile device charging stations, nursery rooms, and maps showing restroom availability—everything designed to offer a pleasant experience for Expo visitors from around the world♪

Osaka Metro’s Yumeshima Station connects you directly to the Expo, serving as the gateway to a future society and ready to welcome you.

Expo Ticket Types and How to Buy Them

The Expo’s homepage provides clear, step-by-step instructions with videos and illustrations, guiding you through the process from buying tickets to arriving at the site.

Be sure to check the sites below to learn more about ticket sales, reservations, and lotteries.

★Ticket Types and Prices
★How to Buy Admission Tickets
★Reservation and Lottery Guidelines for Pavilions
★Printed Tickets/Vouchers

The Osaka Expo is just around the corner! What will you discover? What unforgettable experiences await? We can’t wait to welcome you to Osaka. Come visit us at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai!

※Please note the information provided in the article is current as of March 28, 2025 and subject to change without notice.

Spots Introduced

The World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

[Access] At Osaka Metro Chuo Line’s Yumeshima Station
[Hours] Sunday, April 13, 2025 - Monday, October 13, 2025 / 184 days