Chongqing—As of May 18, the China Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors, becoming a top attraction where culture and innovation converge. What sets this pavilion apart, drawing visitors from around the world?
On April 13 in Osaka, Japan, a humanoid robot waves to guests outside the China Pavilion. (Photo/Jia Haocheng, Xinhua)
A showcase of culture and innovation
The Expo 2025 Osaka, themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” officially opened on April 13. Among the most anticipated destinations, the China Pavilion stands out by weaving together the country’s rich traditions and its latest achievements in fields such as smart cities, green energy, and artificial intelligence. Its popularity highlights both China’s deep cultural heritage and its drive for technological advancement.
The China Pavilion, covering 3,500 square meters, is one of the largest foreign national pavilions at the expo. Under the theme “Building a Community of Life For Man and Nature—Future Society of Green Development,” the pavilion is divided into three exhibition zones: “Harmony between Humanity and Nature,” “Green Mountains and Clear Waters,” and “Endless Life.” These zones are designed to share China’s ecological wisdom, promote green development, and foster dialogue between civilizations.
A new landmark for global exchange
Within the first month, the China Pavilion garnered praise from visiting ministers and dignitaries, who lauded its impressive representation of China’s openness and global stature. As a bridge for China-Japan friendship, the pavilion features unique exhibits such as the cultural corridor and collaborative wildlife conservation projects, strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.
On April 13 in Osaka, Japan, a visitor tours the China Pavilion. (Photo/Jia Haocheng, Xinhua)
Cutting-edge features—like interactive AI experiences and zero-carbon architecture—have made the China Pavilion a favorite of international media, including AP, Reuters, AFP, and Kyodo News. To date, 53 major news outlets from 26 countries and regions have published nearly 2,000 reports on the pavilion, underscoring its worldwide impact.
Blending Eastern aesthetics with advanced technology
At the heart of the China Pavilion’s appeal is its integration of traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern innovation. The pavilion’s exterior is inspired by ancient bamboo scrolls, symbolizing Chinese civilization's enduring openness and transmission. Its façade is engraved with 119 classical Chinese poems in five different calligraphic styles, highlighting the beauty of Chinese characters. The spatial design evokes the subtle elegance of classical Chinese gardens.
Inside, the “Harmony between Humanity and Nature” section features a multimedia installation on the 24 solar terms, designed by 94-year-old Dunhuang artist Chang Shana. The installation brings ancient cosmology to life using digital animation inspired by Dunhuang murals. Another highlight is a digital reimagining of the traditional “Farming and Weaving” scroll, illustrating the ecological wisdom behind China’s agricultural heritage.
On April 13 in Osaka, Japan, a visitor views lunar soil samples collected by the Chang’e-5 and Chang’e-6 missions inside the China Pavilion. (Photo/Jia Haocheng, Xinhua)
One of the most popular exhibits is lunar soil brought back by China’s Chang’e-5 and Chang’e-6 missions. The display draws crowds eager to see samples from both the near and far sides of the Moon—a world-first achievement for humanity. “It’s incredible to see lunar soil up close,” a Canadian visitor said. “China’s advances in space exploration are truly impressive.”
Interactive experiences also allow visitors to engage with digital art, merging Dunhuang-inspired designs with lunar exploration, and even converse with an AI-powered “Monkey King” in multiple languages, bringing Chinese mythology to life through technology.
Expo 2025 Osaka runs through October 13. The China Pavilion will continue to host special events and cultural activities with various Chinese provinces and cities. July 11 is set as China National Day, promising more highlights to come.