The European Union is committed to fostering a better future through sustainability, connectivity, inclusivity, and security. At Expo 2025 Osaka, the EU Pavilion, themed "Nurturing Tomorrow," will showcase initiatives that bring these commitments to life.
The EU and Japan share a strong partnership, working together to promote peace, democracy, and solutions to global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and food security. The Pavilion will highlight these collaborations, emphasising the deep political, economic, and cultural ties between the EU and Japan.
The facade
The EU Pavilion facade reflects the New European Bauhaus values by combining sustainability, aesthetics, and innovation in a dynamic, ever-changing design.
Inspired by Japanese Ema plaques and the precision of Origami, the facade features rotating, petal-like modules made from sustainable bamboo, a material chosen for its durability, lightness, and environmental performance.
These elements move naturally with the wind, mirroring the graceful motion of Sakura blossoms and bringing the Pavilion’s theme, “Nurturing Tomorrow,” to life.
Acting as a living, adaptable surface, the facade transforms throughout the Expo, shifting colours and patterns to reflect different events and themes. By day, its lightweight structure plays with natural light and shadow, while at night, dynamic LED illumination enhances its vibrancy.
Its modular and reusable design ensures minimal environmental impact, aligning with the Pavilion’s commitment to sustainability and circularity. More than a decorative element, the facade is an interactive experience, inviting visitors to engage with its movement and explore the spirit of co-creation and creativity at the heart of Expo 2025 Osaka.
Visitor Experience
The EU Pavilion is more than an exhibition—it is a space for discovery, dialogue, and interaction. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the following:
- Zen Robot Installation – Find a moment of peace as an interactive robot nurtures a zen garden, tracing patterns in the sand and greeting guests in one of the 24 official EU languages.
- Talking Plants – Touch a digital plant to watch its virtual twin grow and reveal fascinating insights into EU initiatives on sustainable agriculture, food safety, and green alliances.
- Digital Origami Birds – Inspired by Japan’s origami culture, fold your own digital dove and release it into the installation, symbolising hope and cooperation.
- EU-Japan Relations Quiz – Test your knowledge of the strong partnership between the EU and Japan.
- Interactive Photo Stations – Take augmented photos in iconic European locations, learning about travel to Europe.
Beyond its installations, the Pavilion will serve as a dynamic forum for policy exchanges, cultural dialogue, and high-profile talks on the future of our societies.
Innovation and Sustainability
In line with Expo 2025 Osaka’s theme, "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," the EU Pavilion reflects the guiding principles of the New European Bauhaus:
- Sustainability – The Pavilion incorporates eco-friendly materials and features an adaptable design to minimise environmental impact.
- Aesthetics – Inspired by both European and Japanese sensibilities, the Pavilion blends tradition and innovation to create a unique architectural experience.
- Inclusion – The space is fully accessible and designed for all visitors to enjoy.
The New European Bauhaus sparkles innovation and creativity in neighbourhoods worldwide through projects in the field of affordable housing, bio-based materials, textiles, and much more.
With its immersive exhibits, interactive installations, and meaningful cultural exchanges, the EU Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka invites the world to co-create a more sustainable and inclusive future.
We look forward to welcoming you to the EU Pavilion—where ideas, creativity, and innovation come together to nurture tomorrow.