From Yokohama’s “GREEN×EXPO 2027” to Osaka’s “EXPO 2025”

YAMAHA and Marine FM, among others, collaborated to broadcast from the Osaka-Kansai Expo to 101 stations nationwide at the end of May. Meanwhile, Sakiōken, a long-established ekiben (station lunchbox) company, is preparing for a limited-time collaborative exhibition at the Osaka Expo from June 9 to 15, showcasing opportunities for Yokohama-based businesses to participate in the event.

The Yokohama International Garden Exposition, set to begin in March 2027, will be the next “International Exposition” held in Japan after the Osaka-Kansai Expo. Following a press conference at the Expo site, a tour of the pavilions was conducted with representatives from Sakiōken.

Sakiōken’s limited-time Expo exhibition: A collaboration with three long-standing ekiben companies to make “EKIBEN” a global term.

YAMAHA broadcasts a radio program from the Expo to 101 stations nationwide, achieving real-time audio-to-text conversion and multilingual translation, currently being tested on Marine FM.

Exploring the Expo Pavilions with Sakiōken

After Sakiōken’s press announcement, a tour of the pavilions was arranged.

The recommended pavilions were “TECHWORLD” and “PASONA NATUREVERSE,” chosen for their representation of the theme “Designing Future Society Where Life Shines.”

“TECH WORLD”: Experiencing Life, Future, and Nature with All Six Senses

The exterior of “TECH WORLD” is inspired by towering mountain ranges, with its architectural design concept centered on “Mountains of the Mind.” Inside, the pavilion blends the essences of “Life,” “Future,” and “Nature” with digital and 3D projection technologies, engaging visitors’ six senses—sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste, and emotion. The exhibits showcase how cutting-edge technology transforms daily life.

The pavilion consists of three spaces: “Life Theater,” “Nature Theater,” and “Future Theater.” Along the way, the “Orchid Path” displays Taiwan’s specialty, the Phalaenopsis orchid, with digitally printed petals and 3D butterflies fluttering around the flowers.

Cherry blossom-like patterns printed on orchid petals

At the end, visitors’ digital watches, received upon entry, determined which theater resonated most with them.

High-definition 4K laser-projected visuals

“PASONA NATUREVERSE”: Gratitude for Life

The concept of “PASONA NATUREVERSE” is “Thank You, Life.” It features the latest technologies, such as iPS cardiac sheets, symbolizing life, with themes of “Body, Mind, and Bonds.” The pavilion is guided by Astro Boy, while Black Jack introduces future medical advancements and eco-friendly food. Exhibits explore the history of life and humanity’s wisdom in designing future societies.

Astro Boy and Black Jack greet visitors at the entrance.

The world’s largest ammonite

iPS heart

A catheter treatment experience area was also nearby.

3D projection mapping

Republic of Korea Pavilion

Theme: “Connecting Hearts: A Future Where Life Blossoms”

The Korean

GREEN×EXPO 2027

“GREEN×EXPO 2027” is an upcoming international exposition focused on sustainability and green innovation, scheduled to take place in Yokohama, Japan. The event aims to showcase cutting-edge technologies and solutions for environmental challenges, aligning with global efforts toward carbon neutrality and sustainable development. While details are still emerging, it follows Japan’s legacy of hosting forward-thinking expos, such as Expo 2005 Aichi, which emphasized harmony with nature.

Osaka-Kansai Expo

The **Osaka-Kansai Expo**, officially known as Expo 2025, is a upcoming World Expo to be held in Osaka, Japan, from April 13 to October 13, 2025. The theme, *”Designing Future Society for Our Lives,”* focuses on sustainability and innovation, echoing Japan’s legacy of technological advancement—Osaka previously hosted Expo 1970, a landmark event showcasing futuristic visions. The expo aims to address global challenges like climate change and digital transformation through international collaboration.

Yokohama International Garden Exposition

The **Yokohama International Garden Exposition** was a major horticultural event held in 1989 to commemorate Yokohama’s 130th anniversary as an international port city. Located in the **Yokohama Cultural Park**, the exposition showcased elaborate gardens, floral displays, and cultural exhibits from around the world, attracting millions of visitors. Today, the site remains a green space known as **Kodomo-no-Kuni (Children’s Land)**, blending nature, recreation, and remnants of the expo’s legacy.

TECHWORLD

TechWorld is a modern interactive museum and exhibition space dedicated to showcasing advancements in technology, innovation, and digital culture. Often featuring cutting-edge displays, workshops, and immersive experiences, it highlights the evolution of technology from early inventions to futuristic concepts. While specific histories vary by location, such centers typically aim to educate and inspire visitors about the impact of technology on society.

PASONA NATUREVERSE

PASONA NATUREVERSE is an innovative urban farming and workspace complex located in Tokyo, Japan, designed by the Pasona Group to integrate nature into the corporate environment. Opened in 2010, it features rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and fruit trees grown indoors, blending sustainable agriculture with modern office design. The project reflects Japan’s focus on harmonizing technology, work, and nature while promoting environmental awareness.

Life Theater

The Life Theater, located in Los Angeles, California, is a historic venue that originally opened in the 1920s as part of the vibrant downtown theater district. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of performances, from vaudeville acts to modern plays, and remains a cultural landmark for its architectural charm and artistic legacy. Today, it continues to serve as a hub for live entertainment and community events.

Nature Theater

The **Nature Theater** is an avant-garde performance art collective founded in Prague in 2006 by artists Kelly Copper and Pavol Liška. Known for their experimental, often humorous works, they transform everyday conversations and mundane experiences into elaborate theatrical productions. Their unique approach blends documentary-style storytelling with unconventional staging, earning them international acclaim in contemporary theater.

Future Theater

The **Future Theater** is a modern cultural venue dedicated to innovative performances, digital art, and immersive experiences. Often showcasing cutting-edge technology like virtual reality and interactive installations, it represents a fusion of art and futurism. While specific historical details may vary by location, such theaters typically emerge in the 21st century as hubs for experimental storytelling and avant-garde creativity.