2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo: A Spectacular Lineup of Events
Mar 29,2025 | Milo
Table of contents
1. Blue Impulse Air Show – Spectacular Opening Event
2. Ado’s Special Live Concert at Expo 2025
3. Japan Fireworks Expo – A Pyrotechnic Extravaganza
5. Masquerade(全日本仮装大賞) – Grand Championship
6. Osaka Festival Series – A Cultural Celebration
7. Traditional Performing Arts – A UNESCO Heritage Showcase
8. Osaka Summer Festival – EXPO 2025
9. U-NEXT MUSIC FES – A 6-Day Music Extravaganza
10. Osaka Autumn Festival – A Fusion of Jazz & Tradition
11. Lemino Music EXPO LIVE – Global Music Experience
FAQs About 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo
The 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo is gearing up to be a groundbreaking celebration of global culture, technology, and creativity. From breathtaking aerial displays to electrifying music festivals and timeless traditional arts, the event promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s a sneak peek at the must-see highlights of this world-class exposition!
1. Blue Impulse Air Show – Spectacular Opening Event
-
Date: April 13, 2025 (Opening Day)
-
Location: Osaka Expo Sky
-
Time: Noon

At noon, look up! The iconic Blue Impulse aerobatic team will take to the skies above the Expo venue. This isn’t the first time Osaka gets to witness their breathtaking maneuvers—after their performance during the 1970 Expo, this will mark the first flight display in Osaka since the International Flower and Green Expo launched on April 1, 1990. Get ready for a visual treat as they once again soar across the sky to kick off Expo 2025 with a bang!
2. Ado’s Special Live Concert at Expo 2025
-
Date: April 13, 2025
-
Location: EXPO ARENA “Matsuri”
-
Time: 18:00 Doors Open | 19:45 Show Start

Chart-topping singer Ado will headline the opening night with a special concert, accompanied by an exclusive illustration created by her creative director, ORIHARA. A fusion of music and visual art to mark the Expo’s grand debut!
3. Japan Fireworks Expo – A Pyrotechnic Extravaganza
-
Dates: April 26 | May 31 | June 28 | July 21, 23 | August 23 | September 27 | October 8, 2025
-
Location: Southern Embankment of Yumeshima Island

Fireworks displays throughout Japan are unique and closely linked to local culture and traditions, and many classic festivals are more than 100 years old. The Expo will present to the world Japan's pride in the world's top fireworks technology, and will also bring together the nation's top fireworks artists to create unique artistic fireworks, especially for the Expo, blossoming into the ultimate beauty and showcasing the deep charm of Japan's fireworks culture.
Experience the Japan Fireworks Expo dates and witness stunning, uniquely choreographed firework displays created by Japan’s top pyrotechnic masters.
4. LDH Day – Jr.EXILE LIVE
-
Date: April 29, 2025
-
Location: EXPO ARENA “Matsuri”
-
Performers: THE RAMPAGE, FANTASTICS, BALLISTIK BOYZ, PSYCHIC FEVER

Music fans are in for a treat at the EXPO ARENA “Matsuri” on April 29. The special “LDH Days” event starts at 14:00 with a warm-up and the main performance follows at 17:00. Popular groups such as THE RAMPAGE, FANTASTICS, BALLISTIK BOYZ, and PSYCHIC FEVER will light up the stage in an unmissable musical extravaganza.
5. Masquerade(全日本仮装大賞) – Grand Championship
-
Date: May 6, 2025
-
Location: EXPO HALL “Shine Hat”

Masquerade (Taiwan version of the name "超級變變變"), the AILJAPAN KASOH GRAND-PRIX, which has been airing since 1979, marked its 100th broadcast in January this year. To commemorate this achievement, a special "Grand Champion Convention" will be hosted at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. This event will revisit many iconic moments from the show’s 4,171 episodes. Notably, it will be the first and only time the "Legendary 1 Day of Crossdressing Awards" will take place at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, making it an unmissable event for fans.
6. Osaka Festival Series – A Cultural Celebration
-
Spring Festival: May 9–10 – Featuring traditional dashi floats & taiko drums
-
Summer Festival: July 26–29 – Join the world’s largest Bon Odori dance circle
-
Autumn Festival: September 4–7 – Enjoy a mix of Osaka jazz & traditional music

Colorful floats, drum stages, and other festive exhibits from around Osaka will come together in one exciting location! Featuring dazzling performances and awe-inspiring displays, these impressive floats and drum platforms will energize the venue, enhanced by the lively sounds of local celebration music! Dive into the dynamic, colorful festivals of Osaka and soak up the city’s one-of-a-kind festive spirit!
7. Traditional Performing Arts – A UNESCO Heritage Showcase
-
Date: May 10, 2025
-
Location: EXPO HALL “Shine Hat”
-
Performances: Noh Theater, Bunraku Puppetry, Kabuki

Osaka is set to celebrate its rich heritage of traditional arts recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage—Noh, Bunraku, Kabuki, and Japanese dance—through a special performance at the Osaka International Cultural Arts Program, named "Kamigata Traditional Arts Performance (Noh, Bunraku, Kabuki)." The event seeks to revive and share the distinctive appeal of these ancient art forms with a global audience. A remarkable cast of performers, including Living National Treasures such as Fumizo Ōtsuki (Noh), Yoshida Tamio (Bunraku), and acclaimed Kabuki artists like Nakamura Ganjiro, Kataoka Ainosuke, and Ichikawa Chūsha, will grace the stage.
8. Osaka Summer Festival – EXPO 2025
-
Date: July 26–29, 2025
- Location: EXPO ARENA “Matsuri”

This summer, get ready to witness a world-record attempt for the largest Bon Odori dance circle—with participants from around the world! It's an unmissable cultural experience, with vibrant performances by energetic kids showcasing their talents. Join in the lively atmosphere and experience the joyful celebration of summer at Expo 2025!
9. U-NEXT MUSIC FES – A 6-Day Music Extravaganza
-
Date: August 12–17, 2025
-
Location: EXPO ARENA “Matsuri”

Japan’s leading video streaming platform, U-NEXT, presents a spectacular six-day music festival featuring electrifying performances from some of the country’s most renowned artists. This immersive event promises a dynamic showcase of Japan’s vibrant music landscape, offering an unforgettable experience for fans of J-pop, rock, electronic beats, and more. No matter your musical taste, this exclusive festival has something to captivate every listener.
10. Osaka Autumn Festival – A Fusion of Jazz & Tradition
-
Date: September 4–7, 2025
-
Location: EXPO ARENA “Matsuri”

Jazz aficionados and music lovers can look forward to captivating performances by Osaka’s finest musicians, seamlessly merging the city’s deep jazz heritage with traditional sounds. Experience an extraordinary fusion of genres as local artists take center stage, bringing Osaka’s vibrant musical spirit to life through their dynamic and soulful performances.
11. Lemino Music EXPO LIVE – Global Music Experience
-
Date: October 5–6, 2025
-
Location: EXPO ARENA “Matsuri”

Partnering with NTT Docomo, the Lemino Music EXPO LIVE promises an electrifying musical experience at Expo 2025. This international event will spotlight Japan’s leading artists, offering audiences worldwide the opportunity to enjoy their outstanding performances. It’s the perfect way for global visitors to immerse themselves in Japan’s dynamic music culture!
📌 How to Attend Osaka Expo 2025
-
📍 Location: Yumeshima Island, Osaka, Japan
-
🎟️ Tickets: Available via the Official Osaka Expo 2025 Website
-
📶 Stay Connected: Ensure uninterrupted network access with ByteSIM eSIM, perfect for seamless connectivity during the event. Access maps, schedules, and share happy moments with families and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
For more tips on how to attend Osaka Expo 2025, check out this Expo 2025 travel guide.
From the breathtaking Blue Impulse air show to the biggest music festivals in Osaka, Expo 2025 is set to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Plan your visit today and be part of this extraordinary cultural and technological showcase!
FAQs About 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo
When and where is the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo held?
The Expo will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, primarily on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay. Key venues include the EXPO ARENA “Matsuri” and EXPO HALL “Shine Hat”.
How can I purchase tickets for the Expo events?
Tickets are available on the Official Expo 2025 Website. Some events (e.g., concerts) may require separate bookings—check the event details for links.
Are the events suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! The Japan Fireworks Expo, Super Variety Show Grand Championship, and summer Bon Odori dance events are perfect for all ages. Kids will love the vibrant performances and interactive activities.
How do I get to Yumeshima Island?
Osaka’s public transport network will have dedicated Expo shuttle buses from key stations like Osaka-Namba and Shin-Osaka. Detailed routes will be announced closer to the event dates.
Are there any free events at the Expo?
Many outdoor events, such as the Blue Impulse air show and fireworks displays, are free to watch from public viewing areas. Indoor events and concerts typically require tickets.