Heading Back to Japan for Expo 2025
Yep, unexpectedly, I’m heading back to Japan in 2025. A lot quicker than I thought! I originally expected this trip to be on the back burner until at least 2027. But right now, the yen is weak against the pound, making it a great time to visit Japan. The costs are actually more affordable than some European holidays! Don’t let the flight costs put you off. You can check out my other blog on how much a trip to Japan can cost. I tell you what, I am really looking forward to eating some more okonomiyaki.
Expo 2025 in Osaka
The World Expo 2025, will be held in Osaka (a delayed event from 2020 when the world came to a stop), and it’s the perfect excuse to return sooner than expected. I’ll be heading out on May 12, 2025, for 8 days. The Expo promises to be spectacular! I’ve seen some previews, and there are some seriously impressive displays of structural design and technology. One of the highlights is the relocated 18-meter Gundam mech, which once stood in Yokohama. The theme of this year will be “Designing future society for our lives”, which leads me on nicely to my other reason for travelling to Osaka which I’ll get to in a moment.
Flying with Emirates
I’m especially excited to fly with Emirates for the first time. The second leg of my journey—between Dubai and Osaka—will be on an Airbus A380. As a massive plane nerd, I can’t wait to experience the “Queen of the Skies.” The flight is divided into two segments: 7 hours to Dubai, followed by a 2-hour layover, and then 9 hours to Osaka. This will be a different experience compared to my 14-hour direct flight from London with Japan Airlines in 2024.
A Brief History of World’s Fairs
The World’s Fair concept dates back to 1791, in what is now the Czech Republic (then Bohemia). The goal was to celebrate cultures through architecture and technology. Countries showcased their achievements for the world to see. Past Expos unveiled incredible innovations, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Crystal Palace in London, Walt Disney’s rides (like “It’s a Small World”), and the concept of EPCOT at Walt Disney World.
Technologies first demonstrated at the World’s Fair include the dishwasher, the Ferris wheel, rail travel, moving walkways, the radio phone (which later became both the radio and the telephone), the fax machine, and even television. So, I’m hopeful the Japanese will deliver an unforgettable experience at Expo 2025.
The dishwasher, the Gerris Wheel, Rail Travel, Moving Walkways, the radio phone (later to become both the Radio and the Telephone), the fax machine, and to a degree the television were all technologies which were first demonstrated to the world at World’s Fair through history. So, I have high hopes that the Japanese will put on an unforgettable experience.
The Dark Side of Light Pollution
Beyond the glitz and glamour of Expo 2025, my trip is also a study on light pollution. As our cities grow and lighting increases for various purposes, the night sky is fading from view. What does this mean for our connection to adventure, wonder, culture, and heritage?
In 1925, more than 80% of people grew up with natural, dark skies. Fast forward to 2025, and less than 2% have that privilege. That’s a shocking statistic for just 100 years of development.
For thousands of years, humans have gazed at the night sky in awe, drawing inspiration that led to groundbreaking advancements. From building new instruments to space exploration, these achievements have given us tools like two-way radios, pacemakers, and medical breakthroughs. My question is: will the rise in light pollution and obscured skies spark our curiosity to explore more? Will it push us to travel to places where the night sky is still visible, or will we forget about it?
Social Media and the Planetary Parade
Interestingly, social media this week shows how the grand planetary parade is sparking curiosity. It’s gone viral! However, misinformation is rampant. That’s where science outreach comes in—to meet people where they are and guide their curiosity without creating panic.
The Mystery of the Night Sky
An alternative way to look at the rise in light pollution is that we might become more intrigued by what we can’t see. My interest in returning to Japan isn’t just about Expo 2025; it’s also about exploring the strong cultural connections to the night sky in Japanese culture. How is light pollution affecting this? How are scientists and communicators addressing the loss of natural dark skies? Are Japanese authorities and companies working to preserve dark skies, and is it creating a shift in how younger generations connect with their cultural heritage?
This is what I hope to explore during my trip. I’m excited to experience best practices from some of the world’s most impressive attraction builders at Expo 2025. I can’t wait to share my findings with you!
Traveling Around Japan
Traveling around Japan is easy and comfortable. With low-cost airlines, the Shinkansen, and car rentals, you’ve got plenty of options. I’ve written more about these travel options on my Visit Japan page.
