Expo 2025 Osaka: 12 Tips After We Actually Visited It

The world's fair Expo is happening in Osaka from April 13th to October 13th, 2025.

I had the chance to check it out with our Japanese product manager, Ling, right on the opening day and the following day (April 13th - 14th). We stayed from morning till night to really soak it all in and see how things differ between weekdays and weekends, and day versus night.

I've gathered some super helpful tips from our visit that I'm excited to share with you. I'll keep all the info fresh and up-to-date, so you have everything you need for an amazing experience.

1. Consider Taking a Private Car to Save Travel Time

• Private car: Just 10 minutes saved on the road can mean an hour less in line at the venue.

There are two entrances, the West Gate and the East Gate.

Parking is available at the West Gate, which has fewer people and much shorter lines for security. On our first day, we went through the West Gate and it took just 10 minutes for security. The next day, we used the East Gate and it took 20-30 minutes.

• Public Transport: The subway is your best bet.

The Osaka Metro Chuo Line takes you directly to the East Gate of the Expo. 8-9 AM is rush hour in Japan, so the trains can be crowded, but they’re very orderly. Also, navigating the large subway stations might take an extra 10 minutes or more, so plan accordingly.

I recommend staying in Honmachi, where you don’t need to transfer. Alternatively, Umeda and Namba are also good options, requiring just one transfer. Keep reading for a detailed guide on choosing the best places to stay in Osaka.

2. Make Reservations in Advance for Popular Pavilions

Popular pavilions often have long lines - anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, and even longer on holidays. All queues are outdoors, so you could be exposed to the sun or rain.

Many Japanese pavilions, like the Japan Pavilion, Gundam Pavilion, and Future of Life Sciences Pavilion, require reservations. If you miss out on booking in advance, you might still get lucky with last-minute cancellations on-site.

Here are a few pavilions I highly recommend:

1) USA Pavilion: Packed with cutting-edge technology, it features a 4D film showcasing the latest in AI, space exploration, and autonomous vehicles. The Mars launch simulator is truly breathtaking, offering a space-like experience.

2) Switzerland Pavilion: Highly interactive, you can "taste" a comet and touch many exhibits. It generates scenic photos as you walk by, with an Alps backdrop or even transforms you into Einstein. It’s a practical glimpse into the future.

3) Gundam Pavilion: Immerse yourself in space through animated experiences. The 4D animation takes you on a journey with Gundam through space tunnels to the future. The exhibits at the Gundam Museum will not be fully complete until July.

4) China Pavilion: A blend of ancient and modern. The bamboo slip design hosts exhibits like the Sanxingdui sacred tree, masks, Yin-Shang bronzes (like the Simuwu Ding), lunar soil samples, and robots that can converse with Sun Wukong.

3. Spend 2 Days or More at the Expo

The duration of the Expo depends on what you want to see. Typically, it takes 2–4 days, but that's only if you've already booked your tickets and pavilions.

• One day at the Expo is rushed. You might explore 2-3 pavilions at most due to potential issues like traffic jams, long queues for entry to both the venue and popular pavilions, and the walking distance within the expansive spaces. It would be a shame to travel all the way to Japan and only see a few pavilions.
• We recommend planning a 2-day visit. This would give you enough time to explore 4-6 pavilions at your own pace. Additionally, you could enjoy some performances based on your interests.
• If you want to explore some fun activities as well, you might need to plan for 3–4 days. You could visit most of the pavilions you're interested in and enjoy cool experiences, such as witnessing the 16-meter (52-foot) high Gundam or Chopin concert.

4. Accessibility-Friendly Facilities

• Visitors with mobility issues can reserve mobility scooters in advance. The pavilions have no stairs, making wheelchair access very convenient.
• Strollers are available for rent, and restrooms have baby seats.
• Lockers are available at the entrance (luggage cannot be brought into the pavilions).
• There are plenty of benches in the rest areas, mainly within the wooden rings, with additional rest spots throughout the venue.
• There is a children's playground for kids to play.

5. Food and Drinks

• There are restaurants and food trucks throughout the park offering a variety of foods and snacks, including different types of Japanese noodles. Many country pavilions, like the Singapore Pavilion and Poland Pavilion, have restaurants underneath.
• Numerous vending machines sell water and beverages, with prices similar to convenience stores.

On holidays, it's advisable to avoid peak dining times or bring your own snacks, as restaurant lines can be at least 30 minutes long.

6. Avoiding Crowds

• Avoid visiting during holidays and weekends, as many locals attend and venues can be very crowded.
• Arrive early: Before 10 a.m., the crowds are smaller. From noon to around 2-3 p.m., it gets busier.
• Enter in the late afternoon: After 5-6 p.m., the park is less crowded. Except for pavilions requiring reservations, you can explore freely without queues. You can also enjoy the evening light shows (the park closes at 9 p.m., and many pavilions stop accepting visitors after 8:30 p.m.).

The best times to visit the Osaka Expo during the year are April, May, June, and September.

7. Buy a Map First Thing

As soon as you enter, buy a map from the Tourist Center at the entrance (there might be a short line). The map costs 200 yen (US$1.4) each. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver - everything’s numbered, and the place is huge!

8. Hit Your Favorite Pavilions Early

Go straight to the pavilions you’re most excited about. The lines get long later on.

9. Navigating Security and Language

You’ll go through security checks, and the staff mainly speak Japanese. Google Translate is your best friend here.

10. Stay Cool and Protected

There aren’t many shaded spots, and it gets sunny. Pack a sunshade, fan, and sunscreen to stay comfy.

11. Cash-Free Zone

Cash is not accepted at Expo 2025 Osaka. You can use most electronic payment methods for buying water, food, or souvenirs. Electronic payment is required for all purchases.

12. Visit the Pavilions at Night

At night, you can enjoy the illuminated exhibition hall, which is more charming than during the day.

Additionally, the number of visitors queuing up is significantly reduced, allowing you to explore popular venues without long waits.

13. Buy Expo Souvenirs

Save the shopping for when you're heading out: The shops are right by the exits (both East and West gates) and super convenient.

During holidays, there are long lines to enter the store, and it gets very crowded inside.

14. Buy Expo 2025 Osaka Tickets

Before buying your tickets, here's what you need to know:

• Tickets specify the entrance gate: East Gate or West Gate
• Tickets specify the entrance time: The Expo is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm. Some tickets require admission after 11 am, while evening tickets allow entry after 5 pm.
• Tickets bought online are e-tickets.
• Tickets cannot be canceled.
• A ticket transfer service is available: You could transfer your tickets to a family member or friend if you are unable to go.
• Buying tickets for entry before 10 am (including 10 am) guarantees fewer people and shorter queue times. The largest crowds usually come between 11 am and 3 pm, leading to longer wait times.
• You can enter the Expo between 3 and 4 pm. when there are fewer people, and you could also enjoy the night view.
• It's okay to enter the Expo even if you exceed your allotted entry time.

Where to Buy Tickets?

You could buy tickets on the official Expo 2025 Osaka website. Or, you could buy them directly at local convenience stores and travel shops. 

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