A recent analysis has revealed the powerful economic surge currently sweeping through Japan’s Kansai region, with corporate giant ORIX Corporation emerging as a prime beneficiary. Propelled by the monumental success of the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, the region’s tourism industry is not just recovering—it’s thriving, setting a new benchmark for growth and painting a vibrant picture for the future of travel and investment in western Japan.
The Expo’s Golden Touch
The 2025 World Expo, held on Osaka’s Yumeshima island, acted as a powerful catalyst, drawing millions of international visitors and reigniting global interest in the Kansai area. According to a February 10, 2026, report from financial analysis firm Seeking Alpha, the economic afterglow of the Expo continues to shine brightly. Post-event tourism has shattered expectations, with visitor numbers to Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe in late 2025 and early 2026 surpassing even the pre-pandemic peaks of 2019. This influx has directly translated into record-breaking performance for companies with significant stakes in the region’s travel infrastructure.
ORIX: A Case Study in Success
ORIX Corporation, a diversified financial services group with a substantial portfolio of travel-related assets, stands at the forefront of this boom. The company’s strategic investments in the Kansai region are now yielding remarkable returns.
Airports and Hospitality Soar
Kansai International Airport (KIX), operated by a consortium in which ORIX is a core member, has become a bustling hub of activity. The airport reported a more than 30% year-over-year increase in international passenger traffic for January 2026, a direct indicator of the sustained inbound demand.
This trend is mirrored in the hospitality sector. ORIX’s portfolio of hotels and traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) across the region have been enjoying unprecedented occupancy rates, consistently hovering above 90% since the conclusion of the Expo. This high demand has allowed for strong pricing, significantly boosting revenue and profitability for ORIX’s real estate and hospitality divisions.
A Ripple Effect Across the Economy
The success story is not limited to large corporations. The tourism boom is creating a positive ripple effect throughout the Kansai economy. Local businesses—from restaurants and retail shops in Shinsaibashi to artisan workshops in Kyoto—are benefiting from increased tourist spending. The robust demand has also spurred job creation and encouraged further private and public investment in upgrading transportation networks, cultural sites, and visitor services.
What Lies Ahead for Kansai?
The momentum generated by the World Expo is expected to be a long-term tailwind rather than a short-term boost. The legacy of the event includes enhanced global recognition for Osaka and a wealth of new and improved infrastructure.
Looking forward, the region is already gearing up for its next major development: Japan’s first Integrated Resort (IR), set to be built on the former Expo site on Yumeshima. This multi-billion dollar project, scheduled to open in the early 2030s, will feature hotels, convention centers, entertainment facilities, and a casino, promising to establish Osaka as a premier global entertainment and business destination for decades to come.
A Strong Outlook for Travelers and Investors
For travelers, this sustained growth means an even more attractive and accessible Kansai. Continued investment promises enhanced experiences, more accommodation options, and smoother travel. For investors, the Seeking Alpha analysis underscores a clear message: the Kansai region is a dynamic and resilient economic powerhouse with a bright and profitable future. The success of ORIX is a testament to the immense potential that is still waiting to be unlocked in the heart of western Japan.
