Expo Experience | A Real Day with Family
On July 13, 2025, we visited the Expo—my wife, daughter, and grandchildren in tow.
We met up at the Expo’s baggage storage near JR Bentencho Station. We arrived by Kintetsu train; the rest of the family took the Shinkansen. Having reserved ahead made things smoother, but the location was hard to find, and it was a long, hot walk from the subway.
#ExpoDownside1: Too Few Water Stations!
There was only one water dispenser next to a vending machine. Lines were long, and it took 30 minutes to fill a single bottle—and the water was warm.
#ExpoDownside2: Expensive and Limited Dining Near Expo
We reserved seating at “Osaka Noren Meguri” (¥550/person for 50 minutes). While cool and convenient, you can’t relax. Food was pricy (¥2,000–¥3,000 for ramen and okonomiyaki, plus ¥1,000 for beer). Free outdoor seating with more flexibility felt more practical.
#ExpoDownside3: Poor Signage and Orientation
Directional signs were small or missing, and staff were few. Understanding East vs West gate was confusing, and we ended up walking endlessly in the heat until our legs felt like lead.
#ExpoUpside1: Science & Technology Pavilion
At the International Science & Technology Center, we aced a quiz and earned a rare eco-bag as a prize!
#ExpoUpside2: Blue Impulse Flight
On that day, we enjoyed a spectacular Blue Impulse aerobatic performance. It was an unforgettable sight for both grandchildren and adults!
#ExpoUpside3: Precious Time with Family
More than anything, sharing the day with our grandchildren was the highlight. Who knows—when Japan hosts another Expo decades later, maybe they’ll remember this day.
#ExpoUpside4: Grateful for the Spark
Would we have gone without the grandchildren’s invitation? Maybe not. Yet, braving heat and queues made the experience more meaningful—truly “worth going.”
Summary
Some good, some bad—but the real joy came from being together. I hope this honest take helps future Expo-goers!
Real-world Feedback & Improvements at Osaka Expo
Positive Highlights
- The Grand Ring (wooden roof structure) earned praise even from international visitors, described as “impressive” and “iconic.” SoraNews24 -Japan News-ウィキペディア
- Many visitors enjoyed the scale and technology of exhibits, especially students and tech enthusiasts. SoraNews24 -Japan News-
Areas Needing Improvement
- Reservations often can’t keep pace with demand, leading to long lines despite the “line-free Expo” promise. SoraNews24 -Japan News-South China Morning Post
- Signage and multilingual support remain weak—international visitors report inadequate directions. Reddit+1
- The event also battled technical glitches, such as app failures, Wi-Fi outages, and port infrastructure issues causing chaos at entry points. Unseen JapanYouTube
Health & Safety Concerns
- Water shows and shallow pools were temporarily suspended following the detection of Legionella bacteria at up to 20 times the legal limit. Organizers have since taken sanitation measures. AP News
- Transportation issues, including train suspensions and information delays during power outages, caused some visitors to be stranded overnight. 朝日新聞
コメント