Nikken Sekkei Unveils Design for Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka

Designed by Nikken Sekkei Architecture Studio in collaboration with Oki Sato and Yoshiaki Irobe in The Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, this time themed "Between Lives", as the host country the design of this pavilion was certainly not only visually impressive but behind the design there is a philosophy and a special message that wants to be conveyed, namely emphasizing the cycle of transformation that forms life among plants, animals, and society. This pavilion reflects matters related to the sustainability cycle, showing how the world operates in an interconnected and connected countless. This pavilion provides an overview of how, later, when entities approach the end of their role, they transition to a new form, inheriting all elements of their existence.

Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka (cr: Japan Pavilion)

Planning for the Pavilion began in April 2024 and will continue until the Expo opens in March 2025. As envisioned by the Pavilion, this full life involves acknowledging and respecting all forms of life and understanding their value and interconnectedness. A deep connection to nature and a refined aesthetic sensibility are seen in Japan as essential components of this cycle. The Pavilion reflects on what can be found in the endless cycle of life’s journey, where there is no clear beginning or end. This raises questions about what elements of this cycle will be carried forward into the next phases of existence.

The architectural design of the Pavilion focuses on realizing the concept of sustainability, which is evident from its circular structure consisting of cross-laminated timber (CLT), which has a characteristic large circle of wooden planks. Visitors can enjoy and see the interior and exterior areas with this difference as a form that symbolizes the transition between various stages of life. The wood material is sourced from Japanese cedar, which will be reused in various development projects throughout Japan after this exhibition, which will also strengthen the Pavilion's commitment to sustainability and community development in the future.

Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka (cr: Japan Pavilion)

Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka (cr: Japan Pavilion) 

Designed as a “living” building, the Pavilion features a biogas system that converts waste from the Expo into energy, and visitors can see the process. The interior is divided into three distinct zones that will help guide visitors through the Japanese concept of “circulation,” embodying the idea of ​​a continuous and unbroken cycle. There are multiple entrances and exits to the Pavilion, each presenting a different narrative, ensuring each visit reveals unique stories centered on the eternal cycle of life.