View the Pavilions, Feel the Cultures
One of the great joys of Expo 2025 Osaka is visiting the many national pavilions.
These temporary exhibition spaces, designed uniquely for the event, showcase each country’s culture and creativity with striking architectural styles under the Grand Ring.
Even just walking around and viewing the pavilions allows you to sense the diverse cultures and messages each nation wishes to share.
Here, I share some of the pavilions and the cultural impressions they left on me through their stunning designs.
(All images were taken with Pixel 9 — meaning anyone can enjoy capturing these moments.)
🇵🇹 Portugal
– Architecture That Flows Like the Sea
- Gentle, flowing curves and a strong presence, created through rope forms
- Ash-grey tones add a sense of lightness
- A facade that evokes fishing nets and harbor town culture
- Communicates environmental awareness through architectural beauty
🇫🇷 France
– Soft Power Wrapped in Fabric
- A soft exterior wrapped in white fabric
- A striking contrast between the soft facade and the metallic textures of black and gold seen inside
- A modest yet powerful impression
- Illuminated at night in tricolore colors, with the "France" lettering standing out even more
🇲🇾 Malaysia
– Bamboo Structures Breathing with Lightness
- Creates a sense of volume and presence with bamboo, while maintaining transparency and openness
- A light, playful, and charming impression
- Conveys a warm, open culture living in harmony with nature
🇵🇭 Philippines
– Handwoven Warmth and Vibrant Craft
- A large yet soft and adorable appearance with flowing curves
- A fusion of handcraft and natural materials
- The woven facade flows into benches, adding a cute, welcoming touch
- Highlights a handmade culture that values the people living within it
🇨🇳 China
– Tradition and Pride Carved in Wood
- A grand wooden structure showcasing traditional beauty
- Giant calligraphy inscriptions express deep cultural pride
- The facade reflects the weight of history and a message toward the modern world
🇸🇦 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
– Monumental Forms Inspired by the Desert
- A heavy, textured form evoking the atmosphere of the desert
- Stone-like wall textures resembling traditional pavements
- A massive, seamless, geometric solidity
- A striking contrast between the bright sky and the pure white walls
In Closing
Each pavilion vividly expresses its country's culture and message through architectural design, standing proudly together under the magnificent Grand Ring.
As you wander through the venue, take time to stop and look up.
It’s not just the grandeur of the buildings that impresses—it’s the deeper emotions and intentions woven into each structure.
I hope this article and these photos inspire you to experience the joy of traveling the world through architecture.
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