VOL.205 JULY 2025
EXPO 2025 OSAKA, KANSAI, JAPAN: THE CHARM OF KANSAI [POLICY RELATED NEWS] Explore the Magic of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan at Night

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The view from the illuminated Grand Ring

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan (hereinafter referred to as “the Expo”) features pavilions from various countries, regions, and international organizations worldwide, presenting a diverse lineup of shows and events designed to delight many visitors. This article highlights the must-see attractions of the Expo during the evening and nighttime hours. (The article is based on information available as of June 23, 2025.)

The Expo welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. throughout the event period, from April 13 to October 13, 2025. Budget-friendly Night Tickets, valid only for evening entry, are also available. Normally, Night Ticket holders can enter after 5:00 p.m., but during the ongoing Twilight Campaign—which began in May 7 and will continue until further notice—entry is permitted starting at 4:00 p.m. (as of June 23). At night, the Grand Ring and the pavilions light up, offering special events that unfold only after dark. Visitors are invited to take in the Expo’s unique nighttime atmosphere while enjoying the cooler evening temperatures.

• Attraction 1
“One World, One Planet.”—a spectacular show uniting the entire Expo

This is one of the Expo’s key events, held each evening after sunset to celebrate the theme: “Uniting the world through wishes — for the happiness of others and the future of the world.” At twilight, the entire Expo site becomes the setting of a spectacular production that blends sound, light, and cutting-edge technology. A fleet of 1,000 drones light up the sky in brilliant colors, a large-scale projection mapping unfolds across the exterior walls of the EXPO Hall “Shining Hat,” while above the Sea of Connections, which stretches along the southern side of the Grand Ring. No reservations are required — visitors are welcome to immerse themselves freely in this fantastical world of imagery and music.

• Attraction 2
A Spectacular Show of Air and Water 
“Under the Midnight Rainbow” *

Held twice nightly after sunset in the sky above the Water Plaza within the Grand Ring, “Under the Midnight Rainbow” is a spectacular show that unfolds across a vast aerial expanse — approximately 200 m wide and 60 m deep, spanning 8,800 m² — and is built around the theme of the profound connections between water, air, and life. The story is set on a mythical island where, according to legend, all living creatures gather to celebrate a rainbow that appears on moonlit nights. It follows the journey of Ao, the main character, who—guided by the mysterious bird Dodo—meets and befriends a variety of creatures. The show features approximately 300 fountains, multicolored lights, lasers, and music all coming together to create an immersive experience that visitors can fully enjoy as if they are part of the story. A reservation is required to enter the designated seating area. Visitors can access English dubbing, Japanese and English subtitles, and other audio guidance on their smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices.

*This water show is currently suspended until the safety of the water quality in the Water Plaza can be ensured (as of June 23). Please refer to the official Expo website for updates on when the show will resume.

• Attraction 3
Illumination of the Grand Ring

Recognized by Guinness World Records™ as the world’s largest wooden architectural structure, the Grand Ring is illuminated after sunset, with its lattice pattern bathed in golden light. The illuminations create the Skywalk — an elevated walkway atop the Grand Ring — in a magical atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to take in the glowing pavilions and a sweeping view of the entire Expo from above. During the show “Under the Midnight Rainbow,” the area of the Grand Ring near the Water Plaza is illuminated in a variety of changing colors, casting beautiful reflections across the water’s surface.

• Attraction 4
The view of illuminated pavilions and events at night

Many of the Expo pavilions feature distinctive exteriors, and when illuminated at night with bright colors, they take on an entirely different atmosphere from their daytime appearance. There are also pavilions that host special nighttime events. The German Pavilion, for example, offers a diverse nightly program featuring events such as karaoke, dancing, and large-screen soccer viewings. The pavilion’s restaurant serves up German specialties such as beer and sausages— perfect for enjoying a flavorful snack amid the lively events. (The sausage stall is usually open until 7:00 p.m., but on soccer viewing days, the opening hours will be extended.)

CGerman Pavilion
“Wa! Karaoke,” a nighttime event held at the German Pavilion. The pavilion embraces the theme “Wa! Germany,” reflecting a commitment to value and preserve “Wa” in its three meanings in Japanese: “circularity,” “harmony,” and “wonder.”

Note
Sunset times vary by season, so be sure to check the start time of each show for your visit date on the official Expo website. Shows and events may be canceled due to weather conditions. Be sure to confirm the last entry times for pavilions and the business hours of restaurants before your visit.

[画像:QR-code of This week's Expo events]

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