OSAKA EXPO 2025 - Mar 22 2025

Osaka Expo Travel Plan: 1-Night, 2-Day Course

Travel Plan for Osaka Expo: A 1-Night, 2-Day Model Course
1. Day 1: Fully Immerse Yourself in the Expo
2. Day 2: Compactly Enjoy the Expo and Osaka Sightseeing
Travel Budget and Tips
Osaka Expo 1-Night, 2-Day Model Course: Summary

Travel Plan for Osaka Expo: A 1-Night, 2-Day Model Course

Osaka Expo Travel Plan: 1-Night, 2-Day Course — Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

The Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025. With the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," it promises to be a grand event showcasing cutting-edge technologies and sustainability.

This time, we present a 1-night, 2-day model course departing from Tokyo, designed to let you fully enjoy the Expo and Osaka sightseeing! Included are useful details for travel planning, such as access, budget estimates, and tips for making the most of your trip.

Day 1: Fully Immerse Yourself in the Expo

07:00 Depart from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen

Board the early morning "Nozomi" Shinkansen heading to Shin-Osaka Station (travel time: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes). Enjoy a light breakfast with a station bento to energize yourself for the day ahead. Soak in the scenery through the train window as you anticipate the excitement awaiting you in Osaka.

Estimated Cost: Approximately ¥14,000 for a One-Way Shinkansen Ticket

09:30 Arrival at Shin-Osaka → Transfer to Yumeshima

From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Honmachi Station (about 10 minutes). At Honmachi Station, transfer to the Chuo Line and travel to Yumeshima Station (around 20 minutes). Yumeshima, the artificial island hosting the Expo, features the newly constructed station set to open in January 2025. You'll arrive at the Expo site by approximately 10:15 AM.

Transportation Cost: Approximately ¥300 per trip (a 1-day pass for ¥1,000 is recommended).

10:30 Arrive at the Expo Site! Welcomed by Myakumyaku

Enter through the East Gate and begin your exciting day at the Expo. Be greeted by Myakumyaku, the Expo’s colorful and quirky mascot, with its unique red and blue design. Don’t forget to take a memorable photo with the monument—it’s perfect for sharing on social media!

11:00 Touring the Signature Pavilions

Explore 2 of the 8 Signature Pavilions, such as "Future of Life," which delves into medical innovations, or "Connected Lives," showcasing advanced environmental technologies. Each pavilion requires about an hour to fully experience, so prioritize wisely and make reservations in advance through the official website (available six months before the Expo).

13:00 Lunch Time at the Expo Site

Take a break and enjoy a meal at the Expo's food court. Try futuristic options like plant-based burgers or 3D-printed sweets that are sure to grab your attention. If you're craving something local, Osaka specialties like takoyaki are also available. Keep an eye out for limited-edition menu items inspired by Myakumyaku, the Expo's lovable mascot!

Estimated Cost: ¥1,000–2,000

14:00 Explore the Country Pavilions

Discover the fascinating exhibits at national pavilions, such as Japan's showcase on circular society concepts or the U.S.A.'s cutting-edge technological advancements. Enjoy innovative displays, including futuristic city models, immersive VR experiences, and cultural exhibits from around the globe. Visiting in the early afternoon is recommended to avoid the busiest crowds.

16:30 Enjoy a Show at the Water Plaza

Experience a stunning performance at the Water Plaza, a unique venue designed to make the most of Yumeshima’s waterfront setting. Evening shows are particularly atmospheric, offering an unforgettable blend of visuals and sound as the sun sets over the Expo. The event lasts around 30 minutes, making it a perfect highlight to wrap up your day.

17:30 Travel to Namba for Dinner

Take the Chuo Line via Honmachi to Shinsaibashi Station (Approx. 30 Minutes). Stay in the convenient Namba area at "Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka", with room rates around ¥10,000–15,000 per night. For dinner, indulge in Osaka’s signature flavors at Dotonbori—enjoy kushikatsu at "Kushikatsu Daruma" or savor okonomiyaki at "Mizuno." As you dine, take in the beautiful riverside night views, making it a perfect way to conclude Day 1.

Estimated Dining Cost: ¥2,000–3,000

20:00 Stroll Around Dotonbori & Overnight Stay

Take a leisurely walk along the vibrant streets of Dotonbori, capturing memorable photos by iconic spots like the Glico Sign. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, enjoy street performances, or grab some late-night snacks. Afterwards, return to your hotel in the Namba area to relax and recharge for Day 2 of your adventure.

Day 2: Compactly Enjoy the Expo and Osaka Sightseeing

07:30 Breakfast at the Hotel & Check-Out

Start your day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel and treat yourself to Osaka’s local specialty, a fresh mixed fruit juice. Afterward, check out and leave your luggage at the hotel for a stress-free morning. Aim to be ready to depart by 8:30 AM for another exciting day ahead!

09:00 Revisit the Expo to Explore Must-See Spots

Take the Osaka Metro Chuo Line back to Yumeshima Station (approximately 30 minutes) and make the most of your morning by visiting pavilions or exhibits you missed on Day 1. For instance, you can explore the "Future City" display or revisit popular international pavilions while the venue is less crowded in the morning.

12:00 Lunch & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a light lunch at the Expo food court—perhaps the adorable Myakumyaku Bento, which is not only tasty but also Instagram-worthy! Afterward, visit the gift shop to pick up exclusive Expo souvenirs, such as keychains or T-shirts, priced around ¥500–2,000. These items make great keepsakes to remember your trip or gifts for loved ones.

13:00 Head Out for Osaka Sightseeing

Take the Osaka Metro Chuo Line via Honmachi and head to Umeda Station (approximately 20 minutes). Choose your afternoon adventure—either visit the Umeda Sky Building’s observatory (entry fee: ¥1,500) for breathtaking panoramic views of the city or step back in time at Osaka Castle (entry fee: ¥600), where you can experience the rich history and culture of the region.Both activities take about 1 to 1.5 hours, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the sights.

15:30 Return to Shin-Osaka Station

Take the Midosuji Line from Umeda Station back to Shin-Osaka Station (approximately 10 minutes). Once there, retrieve your luggage from storage and get ready for your journey back to Tokyo.

Estimated Cost: Approximately ¥14,000 for a One-Way Shinkansen Ticket

18:30 Arrival at Tokyo Station

Conclude your journey as the Shinkansen "Nozomi" arrives back at Tokyo Station. Reflect on the memorable experiences of the Expo and Osaka's sights as you wrap up your 1-night, 2-day adventure.

Travel Budget and Tips

Estimated Budget (Per Person):

Round-Trip Shinkansen: ¥28,000
Accommodation: ¥10,000–15,000 per night
Expo Ticket: ¥6,000
Dining: ¥5,000
Sightseeing & Souvenirs: ¥3,000–5,000
Total: Approx. ¥52,000–59,000

Travel Tips:

Ticket Reservations: Pavilion access might require advance reservations through a lottery. Check the official Expo website for details and book early.
Comfortable Attire: Wear shoes made for walking and stay hydrated—the venue is vast, so pacing yourself is key.
Timing Your Visit: To avoid crowds, consider visiting during May or September. The start (April) and summer vacation period are expected to be busier.

Osaka Expo 1-Night, 2-Day Model Course: Summary

This travel plan provides the perfect balance of experiencing the innovative Expo and enjoying Osaka's cuisine and sights. Highlights include meeting Myakumyaku, exploring awe-inspiring pavilions, and savoring local dishes like kushikatsu and okonomiyaki.

Packed with memorable experiences—from futuristic displays to the lively energy of Dotonbori—this itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss the chance to plan your visit to the Osaka Expo in 2025!