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Embrace Innovation: Discover Expo 2025 and Kansai for Your Next Incentive Trip

2024.11.01

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Embrace Innovation:  Discover Expo 2025 and Kansai for Your Next Incentive Trip

Japan has proven itself to be a premier destination for hosting global events that showcase its organizational prowess, rich culture, and advanced infrastructure. In 2019, Japan hosted the Rugby World Cup, marking the first time this major event was held in Asia. In 2025, Osaka will be honored to host the World Expo, a prestigious event held every five years. Read on to learn about the Expo and what Osaka and the surrounding Kansai region offer that makes them perfect for an incentive trip.


Why Have an Incentive Trip to Kansai in 2025?

Osaka will be home to Expo 2025 from April 13 to October 13, 2025, on the artificial island of Yumeshima. This six-month global event will gather countries, innovators, and thought leaders to explore the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," focusing on how international collaboration and innovation can foster sustainable growth and enhance lives worldwide. . This artificial island stands as a testament to Japan’s commitment to integrating sustainability and technology in urban spaces. The surrounding Kansai region, with cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, offers an ideal setting for incentive trips, offering a seamless blend of historical allure and cutting-edge infrastructure.

Connect with the world at Expo 2025 in Osaka

While Osaka will be welcoming the world in 2025, it is not its first time. In 1970, it hosted Asia’s first World Expo marking a significant milestone in the city’s international presence. As Osaka prepares to host Expo 2025, it builds upon its rich history of showcasing cutting-edge technologies and inspiring future generations. Expo 2025 is poised to solidify Osaka's position as a global innovation hub.

Discover and explore the Kansai region in Japan

The Kansai region is home to Japan’s most iconic cities Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. All are a reasonable distance from Kansai International Airport, and their Shinkansen train stations make it possible to get to Tokyo in only two hours. Whether you’re drawn to Osaka’s vibrant nightlife, Kyoto’s serene temples, or Kobe’s coastal beauty, each city offers a unique charm, making the Kansai region an ideal destination for your next incentive trip.

Hold meetings and events in the Global MICE cities of Kobe, Kyoto, and Osaka

Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe have been designated as Global MICE cities and have a range of venues, from standard convention halls to more uniquely Japanese locations, to hold meetings and events. The diverse range of venues allows you to choose the perfect setting for your event, whether you are looking for a traditional Japanese experience or a modern and contemporary atmosphere.


What Awaits at Expo 2025 in Osaka

The World Expo is a major international event held every five years. Each edition encompasses a universal theme with a focus on culture, new technologies, or other forms of offerings, allowing visitors to engage with a wide array of experiences and insights. Below is what awaits at Expo 2025 in Osaka.

Explore a new man-made island in Osaka

The World Expo will be held on the newly constructed artificial island of Yumeshima (Dream Island), situated in Osaka Bay in the heart of Osaka. Formerly a waste disposal site, it is being reimagined as the location for the Expo and future major projects. The choice of Yumeshima highlights Osaka’s commitment to innovation and sustainability and provides a unique backdrop for the Expo’s theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives."

Visit the country and corporate pavilions

The World Expo offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse cultures and innovations of nations from around the globe, each represented by its captivating pavilion. Through immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, Expo 2025 will showcase how innovation and collaboration can shape a better future for all.

Several major corporations are also invited to share their ideas and technologies that fit within the main theme of the Expo. This unique blend of cultural exchange and technological advancement makes the World Expo a truly remarkable event, encouraging attendees to envision a better future for all.

Learn About Future Technologies and Social Systems

The theme to be showcased in 2025 is that of a future society imagined through the concept of “People’s Living Lab: A laboratory for a future society.” The Expo’s “Living Lab” concept encourages an interactive experience, inviting attendees to reflect on and engage with these technologies—such as sustainable energy systems, AI, and urban mobility solutions—to envision a future where these advancements contribute to a more sustainable and connected society. Expo 2025 will be an inspirational journey, motivating visitors to consider new paths toward a resilient future shaped by technology and global cooperation.

Enjoy different kinds of entertainment

The Expo is not only an event for showcasing the culture and new technologies of countries around the world, but it will also feature some top-notch entertainment as well. Visitors will experience an array of world-class entertainment, from mesmerizing projection mapping and music performances to dynamic water shows. Traditional Japanese festivals and parades will add to the vibrant atmosphere, allowing attendees to witness the artistry and heritage that define Japanese culture. The Expo 2025 will be a perfect destination where modern advancement meets timeless traditions in a beautifully orchestrated global gathering.


What to See and Do in Osaka

With its unique character and more rebellious spirit, Osaka is considered the rival city to Tokyo. It is commonly said that people from Osaka are more down-to-earth and boisterous than their counterparts in Tokyo and it is these traits that give the city its unique charm. With its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and community spirit, Osaka promises an unforgettable experience for visitors. Below are a few reasons to visit this exciting metropolis.

Visit local Osaka attractions

Osaka is a compact city with plenty of sights on offer. Experience the intensity of the city in Dotonbori, a popular area known for its lights, food, and entertainment. Lovers of history should check out Osaka Castle to learn about the history of the Kansai region in the days of the samurai and the shogunate. The castle and its surrounding park make for a nice stroll to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Enjoy food, food, and more food

Osaka is a hotbed of cuisine and is known as “the nation's kitchen.” The city is famous for its hearty street food as well as its exquisite fine dining options. Osaka is famed for its hearty street food such as okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and yakisoba, as well as high-end fine Japanese dining. There is always some delicious food nearby wherever you are in Osaka.

Take in the passion of baseball in Osaka

Osaka is baseball-crazy, and fans are particularly fervent in their support of the local team, the Hanshin Tigers. The baseball season will be happening around the same time as the Expo, so make sure to catch one of their games for a sporting experience like no other. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this exciting atmosphere!


What to See and Do in Kobe

While Osaka is known for being an overwhelming place, the nearby port city of Kobe is a more elegant and stylish city with a Westernized feel. Kobe offers a perfect day trip to unwind and experience a different side of the Kansai region. Its elegant atmosphere, combined with the warmth of local hospitality, creates a memorable experience. Below are a few reasons why you should check this beautiful city out.

Try the famed Kobe beef

For many outside Japan, Kobe beef represents one of the finest examples of wagyu (Japanese beef). Make sure to visit a teppanyaki restaurant in the city to experience the fine flavor and texture of this delicacy prepared and served to the highest standards.

Explore the traditional hot spring town of Arima Onsen

A short trip away from Kobe and one of Japan's most famous hot spring towns is Arima Onsen, which also happens to be Japan’s oldest, having been operating for 1,300 years. Bathe in its natural hot spring water for a truly relaxing experience or stay at a ryokan or inn for the opportunity to witness a geisha performance.

Ride the Nunobiki Ropeway

The Nunobiki Ropeway offers a comfortable ride over Kobe, passing Nunobiki Waterfall and the Nunobiki Herb Garden as it makes its way to the observation deck at the top station for spectacular views of the city.


What to see and do in Kyoto

The world-famous historical city of Kyoto is probably on most visitors' itineraries in Japan. As the former capital of Japan, its historical architecture, culture, and cuisine have attracted visitors from all over the world and is second only to Tokyo in its popularity among tourists. Below are a few reasons why.

Visit local shrines and temples

Kyoto is home to an incredible number of historical shrines and temples - so many it is pretty much impossible to see them all in one visit. Among the highlights that cannot be missed include Kinkakuji Temple and Kiyomizudera Temple.

Enjoy food at Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is known as “Kyoto's Kitchen” and is a fresh food street market located in central Kyoto. Experience the local side of Kyoto in this lively and bustling market of fresh produce, kitchenware, and local specialties.

Explore the Gion District

The Gion District is a charming area home to shops, restaurants, and tea houses along narrow streets and alleys. It is also known for its geisha culture. You may even catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko on their way to work.


Find Unique Venues Around Kansai for Meetings and Events

With Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe being designated as MICE cities, there are plenty of venues to hold meetings and events, from standard halls to more unique and culturally rich settings. Below are a few examples in each city that will take things to another level.

Around Osaka

Osaka has a rich range of unique venues that showcase Osaka’s culture, whether they be historical buildings or more lively locations. Ohtsuki Noh Theater and Katsuoji Temple are great examples that highlight the finer side of Japan, while the Nakanoshima Museum of Art and the Creative Center Osaka represent Osaka of the present day. These venues not only provide exceptional settings for events but also immerse attendees in the rich tapestry of Osaka’s culture, from its historical roots to its modern artistic expressions.

Around Kobe

With experience in hosting major international summits, Kobe also has a wealth of choices for convention centers and hotels for meetings and events. For large-scale gatherings, the Kobe Convention Center and World Hall are ideal, while famous hotels, including the Hotel Pearl City Kobe and Kobe Portpia Hotel, have experience in hosting more intimate meetings and events. Kobe is well-prepared to host events of any scale while providing an unforgettable experience for attendees.

Around Kyoto

While Kyoto is a city of beautiful culture and history, it is worth considering the “other Kyoto,” where meetings and events can be held in unique cultural and natural surroundings divided into 4 areas according to their vibe: “Kyoto by the Sea”-A seaside retreat, “Woodland Kyoto”-A woodland escape “Kyoto Tea Country”-A tea-infused experience and “Kyoto Otokuni Bamboo Grove.-A serene bamboo grove. Each area serves as a unique location and provides unforgettable experiences that represent the best of Japan. Kyoto's diverse areas offer a wealth of opportunities for meetings and events in culturally rich and naturally beautiful environments.


Summary

2025 will be a big year in Japan, particularly for the Kansai region. As it welcomes the world to the Expo, take advantage by having an incentive trip there to embrace the intersection of Japan's rich heritage, modern innovations, and future-focused events. JTB will be happy to help you plan that special incentive trip to Japan in 2025. Contact us for more information about how we can create the perfect plan for you.

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