With Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, rapidly approaching, a powerful business federation has submitted a formal request to the Japanese government, calling for significant action to ensure the event’s success. The Kansai Economic Federation (Kankeiren) is pushing for smoother construction, enhanced visitor access, and robust security measures to create a world-class experience for the millions of visitors expected.
Background: High Stakes for Osaka’s Global Showcase
Expo 2025 is scheduled to be held on the man-made island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay from April 13 to October 13, 2025. Under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” the event aims to attract approximately 28.2 million visitors from Japan and around the world, showcasing cutting-edge technology and global collaboration.
However, preparations have faced headwinds, including rising construction costs due to global inflation and labor shortages. The construction budget has already been increased to JPY 235 billion, a significant jump from the initial estimate. These challenges form the backdrop for Kankeiren’s urgent appeal to the national government for greater support.
Key Demands for a Seamless Visitor Experience
Kankeiren’s proposals focus on practical improvements that will directly impact travelers visiting the Expo. The key areas of concern are transportation, safety, and the event’s long-term legacy.
Enhancing Access to the Expo Site
A major focus of the request is the development of a seamless transportation network. Kankeiren is calling for the acceleration of key infrastructure projects, including extensions of the JR Sakurajima Line and the Osaka Metro Chuo Line, which will be the primary rail access points to the Yumeshima venue.
Furthermore, the federation is pushing for the expansion of bus routes and sea transport options to offer diverse and convenient ways to reach the site. Most futuristically, the proposal strongly advocates for the “social implementation of flying cars,” aiming to use the Expo as a launching pad for this next-generation mobility service, which could become a major attraction in itself.
Ensuring Safety and Security for All
For an international event of this scale, safety is paramount. The request emphasizes the need for comprehensive security measures, including advanced cybersecurity to protect the event’s digital infrastructure, robust counter-terrorism protocols, and effective infectious disease control measures. These steps are crucial for providing a safe and secure environment for all attendees.
Future Outlook: A Lasting Legacy for Kansai Tourism
If the government acts on these requests, the impact will extend far beyond the six-month duration of the Expo. The proposed transportation upgrades would create a lasting legacy, permanently improving access to Osaka’s bay area and benefiting tourism and local residents for years to come.
The successful debut of “flying cars” could position Osaka as a leader in urban air mobility, creating a unique and futuristic travel experience that could draw tourists long after the Expo concludes. Moreover, a successful and well-managed Expo will significantly boost the global reputation of Osaka and the entire Kansai region as a premier destination for both tourism and business.
The coming months will be critical as the Japanese government responds to these proposals. For prospective travelers to Expo 2025, the implementation of these measures will be key to ensuring a smooth, safe, and unforgettable visit to the heart of Kansai.
