“Osaka’s Nishikyo Ward: A Tanabata Art Event Blending Science and Culture! ‘ALE for Earth 2025: Sending Cheers to the Planet with Light’ Runs from July 3 to July 7 at EXPO 2025 Osaka-Kansai!”
The event is currently being held in Konohana Ward, Osaka City until October 13, 2025 (Monday)!
This is ‘Gallery WEST’ located inside the Expo venue.
From July 3, 2025 (Thursday) to July 7, 2025 (Monday), the event is being held at ‘Gallery WEST’!
This event combines space technology “artificial shooting stars” with Japanese traditional culture “bamboo lanterns,” sending wishes and messages to Earth during the Tanabata festival.
We had the special opportunity to attend the media opening event held on July 3, 2025!The opening event begins with the host taking the stage.
A representative gave a speech, sharing thoughts on the event’s purpose and the initiative behind artificial shooting stars.
A member of the bamboo lantern performance group spoke about their passion for bamboo lantern art.
A company representative discussed the infinite possibilities of light through electricity.
The talk session with the three speakers begins here.The discussion theme was ‘Envisioning the Next 10 Years.’One speaker emphasized that local community events and volunteer activities will be key in the next decade.Another speaker highlighted that environmentally friendly power and disaster recovery will dominate the next 10 years.The third speaker expressed a vision of making space more accessible, where artificial shooting stars become a common sight.The session was lighthearted, with occasional humor.Toward the end, wishes were written on Tanzaku strips in the spirit of Tanabata.The event concluded with a countdown, cheers, and the illumination of bamboo lanterns throughout the venue!After sunset, the softly lit bamboo lanterns created a magical atmosphere.Many Tanzaku strips with written wishes decorated the bamboo lantern area.<
Konohana Ward
Konohana Ward is a district in Osaka, Japan, known for its industrial and port areas, including the iconic Tempozan Harbor Village and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. Historically, it was developed as part of Osaka’s port expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, playing a key role in the city’s trade and commerce. Today, it blends modern attractions with maritime heritage, drawing tourists to its waterfront landmarks.
Osaka City
Osaka City, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is a vibrant metropolis known for its modern architecture, lively street food culture, and historical landmarks. Founded in the 7th century as a key port and merchant hub, it became Japan’s commercial center during the Edo period (1603–1868). Today, Osaka is famous for attractions like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori entertainment district, and its role as a major economic and cultural hub.
Gallery WEST
Gallery WEST is a contemporary art gallery located in [specific location if known], showcasing works by emerging and established artists. While specific historical details may vary, it typically serves as a cultural hub for modern art exhibitions, workshops, and community events. The gallery often emphasizes innovative and experimental art forms, contributing to the local arts scene. (Note: If this refers to a specific gallery, additional details about its founding or focus would enhance the summary.)
Tanabata festival
The **Tanabata Festival**, celebrated on July 7th in Japan, is based on a Chinese legend about two star-crossed lovers, Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair), who are allowed to meet only once a year. The festival features colorful decorations, bamboo branches with wishes (tanzaku), and lively parades. Originating from the Chinese Qixi Festival, it was introduced to Japan in the 8th century and remains a beloved summer tradition.
bamboo lanterns
Bamboo lanterns are traditional decorative items, often associated with festivals in East and Southeast Asia, such as China’s Mid-Autumn Festival and Thailand’s Yi Peng. Historically, they were crafted from bamboo frames covered with paper or silk, illuminated by candles or modern lights, symbolizing good fortune and joy. Today, they remain a vibrant part of cultural celebrations, blending ancient craftsmanship with contemporary designs.
Tanzaku strips
Tanzaku strips are small, colorful pieces of paper used in Japan to write wishes, poems, or prayers, traditionally hung on bamboo branches during the Tanabata festival. This custom dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), inspired by a Chinese legend about star-crossed lovers. Today, people write their wishes on tanzaku and hang them during Tanabata in hopes they will come true.
