20 of the best country pavilions at Expo 2025 Osaka

The theme of the Australian Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka is Chasing the Sun. It will highlight Australia’s vibrant cultural heritage, innovative spirit, and natural beauty.

Global architecture firm Buchan designed the pavilion, drawing inspiration from the eucalyptus gumnut, representing Australia’s diversity and resilience. In collaboration with Indigenous cultural advisors, it will incorporate Indigenous perspectives, emphasising connections to land and water. Visitors can look forward to an immersive experience that transitions smoothly from day to night, showcasing Australia’s landscapes, achievements, and cultural narratives.

The pavilion aims to establish a sustainable, impactful presence in keeping with the Expo 2025 theme of collaboratively fostering a brighter future. Its design prioritises environmental consciousness while embodying Australia’s warmth, energy, and optimism.

The Australian pavilion will incorporate sustainable practices and innovations. For instance, leading build contractor ES Global is utilising repurposed and reusable materials, including components from the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, to create the pavilion.

It will also host cultural events and business initiatives, enhancing Australia’s connection with global audiences and reinforcing its relationship with Japan.

Image: design by Buchan Holdings Pty Ltd, render by FloorSlicer

The Austria Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is titled Austria: Composing the Future. It focuses on music as a metaphor for the harmony between humanity, nature, and technology.

Designed by BWM Architects, the pavilion showcases a striking spiral sculpture resembling a musical staff. Primarily constructed from wood, this structure represents Austria’s vibrant musical heritage while emphasising sustainable building practices, as its elements are designed to be disassembled and reused.

Visitors can explore three exhibition areas highlighting Austria’s cultural richness, scientific progress, and sustainable innovations. These exhibitions take guests on a journey through Austria’s history, present, and future, using music and interactive displays to enhance engagement. The experience ends in the Cathedral of the Future, where visitors can shape AI-driven audiovisual shows that reflect Austria’s visionary spirit.

Alongside its cutting-edge displays, the pavilion highlights Austrian craftsmanship and economic ties with Japan. It will offer venues for events and culinary experiences that honour Austrian traditions and foster international collaboration.

BeWunder, an expert in creating multisensory experiences using a range of media and technology, is delivering comprehensive AVL solutions in partnership with NUSSLI Group.

Image © BWM Designers & Architects

The Bahrain Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka will highlight the Kingdom’s deep connections to the sea and its historical importance as a maritime crossroads. The pavilion, which is called Connecting Seas – A Journey Through the Senses, takes inspiration from Bahrain’s two key water sources: the surrounding seas and its freshwater springs.

Architect Lina Ghotmeh designed the structure to reflect traditional Bahraini dhow boats. The result showcases the nation’s craftsmanship and cultural heritage while also paying homage to Japanese wood artists. The interior, which Shepherd Studio designed, immerses visitors in Bahrain’s rich maritime heritage, logistical expertise, and natural resources.

In addition, the pavilion will promote Bahrain’s contemporary economic and investment prospects. Visitors can enjoy a fusion of cultural narratives and forward-looking visions, in tune with Expo 2025’s theme of Designing Future Society for Our Lives.

Image © Lina Ghotmeh – Architecture

The Belgian Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka focuses on the theme “Saving Lives,” showcasing water’s vital role in life. Designed by Carré 7, Beyond Limits, One Designs, Pirnay, and Poly-Tech, its architecture symbolises the three states of water—solid, liquid, and gas—across three floors.

The pavilion has a 1,000m² exhibition space, leading visitors on a water-inspired journey from the “heart”—a hub connecting all areas. Visitors can expect an engaging experience exploring the vital importance of water in human existence alongside Belgium’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, the pavilion will include a restaurant where guests can savour Belgian cuisine in a distinctive atmosphere.

The pavilion features adaptable “black box” spaces for various exhibits, promoting creativity in displays. The exhibition route forms a circular path, increasing visitor interaction. The rooftop presents panoramas of the Expo site and features a “forest of calm” with shaded zones formed by balloons.

The pavilion’s design embodies Belgium’s profound relationship with water, emphasising its vital role in the country’s history, culture, and economy. The architectural emphasis on water and cellular structures highlights the fundamental significance of water for life and human progress.

Barco, the technology company focusing on innovative visualisation solutions, has been appointed as visualisation partner for the Belgian pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka. The firm will play a key role in delivering the visitor experience, and together with its consortium partners is dedicated to creating a pavilion that provides guests from all over the world with an amazing, immersive experience.

The Canada Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka embodies the theme of regeneration, aligning with the Expo’s overarching message. It highlights Canada’s creativity, diversity, and sustainability while also reflecting the country’s natural beauty. Drawing inspiration from the dynamic movement of rivers and the seasonal breaking of ice jams in spring, the architectural design symbolises renewal and growth.

The pavilion features a cool, icy exterior that contrasts with its inviting interior, emphasising Canada’s openness and optimism. It also strengthens the connection between Canada and Japan, illustrates Canadian innovation, and positions the country as an attractive option for investment, education, and collaboration.

The creative team includes architectural firms Rayside Labossière and Guillaume Pelletier, alongside artistic advisor Robert Lepage and cultural advisor Soleil Launière, who represent First Nations perspectives. Sustainable practices are at the heart of the pavilion; over half of its structures are designed for reuse or rental.

Image © Embassy of Canada

The China Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka combines historical depth and forward-thinking design. Covering around 3,500 square metres, it will be among the largest pavilions constructed independently for the Expo.

With the theme of Building a Community of Life for Man and Nature — Future Society of Green Development, the building is designed to look like ancient Chinese bamboo slips, representing the communication of knowledge and culture through time.

The pavilion invites visitors to discover China’s cultural heritage and its technological advancements. It will highlight the harmony between humanity and nature, reflecting the country’s vision for sustainable growth and a cooperative future for everyone. The pavilion will include both traditional and modern elements, displaying the depth of ancient Chinese civilisation and the benefits of modern innovations.

This project highlights the strong cultural and cooperative connections between China and Japan, offering a platform to enhance mutual understanding and exchange during the Expo. The China Architecture Design Group (CADG) designed the China Pavilion for Expo Osaka 2025.

Image courtesy of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT)

The Czechia Pavilion theme is Talent and Creativity for Life. The structure, designed by Apropos Architects, symbolises upward movement and vitality with its spiral design. It features a barrier-free ramp that wraps around a central multifunctional auditorium, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for visitors.

This pavilion presents Czech craftsmanship through a façade of artistic glass panels inspired by the nation’s glassmaking tradition. Inside, the structure utilises Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) sourced from Czechia, highlighting sustainability and durability against challenging environmental factors like seismic activity and coastal winds. A spiral ramp ascends to a rooftop terrace, which includes a restaurant, a bar, and stunning views of the Osaka coastline.

The design emphasises energy efficiency by incorporating rainwater harvesting and shading methods to improve its environmental performance. Importantly, the pavilion is designed for easy disassembly and reuse, potentially functioning as a gallery or museum in Czechia post-Expo.

Image courtesy of the Office of the Czech Commissioner General

The France Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, called Theatrum Naturae (Theatre of Nature), is designed by the French architecture firm Coldefy in collaboration with CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati. This pavilion demonstrates the interplay between the natural and artificial worlds.

In Japanese culture, the story of the red thread, or Akai Ito, symbolises the connection between two people through an unseen, unbreakable thread linked to their little fingers. The France Pavilion, featuring its own “red thread,” aims to address social and environmental issues by fostering individual and collective commitment.

The visitor experience culminates in a rooftop garden showing the diversity of France’s ecosystems, ranging from mountains to coastlines. This garden serves as a communal space for all forms of life. The pavilion highlights circular sustainability by integrating prefabricated and natural materials while prioritising reuse and recycling.

This design celebrates the interconnections between human creativity, culture, and the natural environment, encouraging visitors to contemplate humankind’s bond with nature. It seeks to showcase France’s role in promoting sustainability, cultural diversity, and biodiversity in the 21st century.

Image © Coldefy & CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati

Named WA! Germany, the German Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka will focus on the theme of the circular economy. Its design and displays emphasise circularity, sustainability, and the balance between technology and nature. In Japanese, “wa” has three significances: “Wa 輪” means “circle,” denoting circulation; “Wa 和” means “harmony”; and “Wa わ” means “wow” to express wonder.

The pavilion is built with reusable materials and avoids non-reversible connections. It exemplifies a seamless blend of architecture, landscape, and exhibition, creating a comprehensive experience. Within its walls, visitors are invited to partake in interactive and sensory journeys that illustrate life within a sustainable, circular society. Additionally, the pavilion features cutting-edge technologies to highlight these ideas.

The project is coordinated by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. The team working on the pavilion includes Koelnmesse GmbH, LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture), BeWunder, and facts and fiction, among others.

Image © German Pavilion / MIR LAVA facts+fiction

The Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka is designed by Nikken Sekkei. Its theme, Between Lives, emphasises the cycles of life and transformation, and its design showcases a circular concept. It uses cross-laminated timber (CLT) from Japanese cedar. After the Expo, this will be repurposed for other construction projects, underscoring sustainability. The pavilion also incorporates a biogas system that turns waste into energy.

Inside, different sections explore various aspects of Japanese philosophy and culture, including harmony with nature, innovation inspired by tradition, and contemporary challenges. It includes engaging installations, such as 3D projections in a mist-filled space, infinity mirror rooms, and displays that highlight Japan’s innovation and history.

There are also interactive elements, like custom devices that allow visitors to tailor their experience and share ideas related to the Expo’s theme. This pavilion highlights Japanese aesthetics and traditions, merging history, culture, and innovative thinking.

Image courtesy of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

The Kuwait Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is known as the Visionary Lighthouse and is designed by LAVA. It shows Kuwait as a beacon for innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange.

The pavilion features wide, wing-shaped designs that echo Kuwait’s welcoming and hospitable nature. The architecture is inspired by the country’s landscapes, including peaceful desert nights and traditional courtyards. The façade will be lit up at night to enhance its visual appeal, while eco-friendly features highlight Kuwait’s dedication to a sustainable future.

Visitors can experience a multi-sensory journey into Kuwait’s past, present, and future. Key features include exhibition rooms that immerse guests in Kuwait’s trading history, cultural diversity, and modern achievements, along with interactive displays highlighting notable Kuwaiti figures and initiatives that encourage engagement and deeper understanding. The final element, a dome projection, invites visitors to share their dreams for the future.

BeWunder is delivering comprehensive AVL solutions in partnership with NUSSLI Group.

Image © LAVA Laboratory for Visionary Architecture

The theme of the Luxembourg Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is Doki Doki – The Luxembourg Heartbeat, inspired by the Japanese term for the sound of a beating heart. The pavilion is designed by Luxembourg-based architect STDM in collaboration with Japanese firm Mikan. It presents Luxembourg’s vibrant culture and multiculturalism while fostering connections between Luxembourg and Japan, in line with the Expo’s sub-theme of Connecting Lives.

Sustainability is key in the construction, with modular steel construction and a tensile membrane roof that can be completely disassembled and reused after the event. This strategy of a circular economy also encompasses partnerships, such as one with Katano City, which aims to repurpose materials from the pavilion once the Expo has finished.

The scenography is designed to inspire enthusiasm and showcase Luxembourg’s innovative culture, emphasising sustainability, cultural exchange, and the connection between the two countries. Key features include cutting-edge design elements, a soundscape created by Luxembourgish composer Claude Zeimes, and furniture crafted by local designers, highlighting Luxembourg’s design excellence and commitment to sustainability.

The theme of the Netherlands Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is Common Ground: Creating a New Dawn Together. It shows that the Netherlands is dedicated to tackling global issues like energy transition and sustainability by working together and using advanced technology.

The structure reflects sustainability principles by serving as a material depot, where every component is documented for future reuse. This method underscores the importance of resource efficiency. At its core is a “man-made sun,” symbolising a future powered by limitless clean energy. This central feature embodies hope and resilience, highlighting renewable resources like wind, solar, and water.

The pavilion presents technologies designed to harness water energy and explores how clean energy can improve quality of life while addressing challenges such as climate change and food security.

This project is a collaborative effort by RAU Architects, experience designers Tellart, engineering firm DGMR, AV partner BeWunder, and the Japanese construction company Asanuma, ensuring a blend of advanced design, sustainability, and expertise from the local area.

Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden have joined forces to create the Nordic Countries Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. The countries want to show their common values of sustainability, innovation, and cultural unity by working together.

The pavilion, named the Nordic Circle, focuses on ideas like connectedness, sustainability, and the circle of life. This concept highlights the Nordic region’s commitment to trust, collaboration, and technological innovation, focusing on global partnerships for sustainable solutions.

Designed by AMDL CIRCLE, there will be an entrance area and a rooftop terrace for gatherings, as well as an immersive exhibition space inside. This exhibition will present Nordic technological innovations and circular economy practices, supporting the region’s goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable and integrated area.

The pavilion is a modular and reusable structure, in keeping with the principles of circularity. Visitors will engage with exhibits that emphasise collaboration and explore innovative concepts to enhance well-being, mobility, and connectivity.

The Pavilion of Saudi Arabia at Expo 2025 in Osaka, designed by Foster + Partners, draws inspiration from the natural shapes found in traditional Saudi Arabian villages. It shows the country’s culture and technology while creating an immersive visitor experience.

The pavilion’s layout features narrow streets that lead to a central Saudi Courtyard, serving as a tranquil reflection space during the day and transforming into an event venue at night.

The design includes sustainable elements such as low-carbon materials, photovoltaic technology, and rainwater recycling, in line with the Net Zero Operational Carbon target and the highest standards of Japanese green building certifications. The structure is designed to be modular, which means it can be taken apart and reused after the Expo ends.

Visitors can interact with immersive environments and audiovisual displays celebrating Saudi Arabia’s innovations and rich cultural heritage. Journey Studios, 59, and Squint/Opera designed a seamless fusion of live performance and in-person residencies with spatial and digital storytelling. Their collaboration with Fosters+Partners creates a multi-layered experience to enhance engagement, understanding, and connection, with technology as the invisible facilitator.

The initiative focuses on legacy and sustainability by using lightweight Saudi stone cladding that can be reused in the future.

Image ©The Saudi Pavilion

The Singapore Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, called The Dream Sphere, aims to showcase Singapore’s innovation, sustainability, and collective spirit.

It was developed by DP Architects, and Kingsmen Exhibits, a subsidiary of Kingsmen Creatives, was chosen to design and produce the showcase. Kingsmen’s creative division, KR+D, worked on the experiential design. The pavilion, inspired by Singapore‘s nickname “The Little Red Dot,” has a round shape and is surrounded by a dreamy cloud background. It represents possibilities and aspirations.

The pavilion emphasises sustainability by employing low-carbon materials and a circular design that facilitates reuse and recycling after the expo. Its rooftop is equipped with integrated photovoltaics, which will produce renewable energy, and the structure incorporates 70% post-consumer recycled aluminium.

Visitors will enjoy multimedia displays, art installations, and exhibitions that highlight Singaporean culture, cuisine, and innovation. These installations span three levels, offering an immersive experience with interactive multimedia art by Singaporean artists such as Ashley Yeo, Jerrold Chong, Melissa Tan, and Zul Mahmod. The pavilion aims to improve ties with Japan, celebrating almost 60 years of partnership.

Image courtesy of Singapore Pavilion

The three themes of the Switzerland Pavilion are Life, Planet, and Augmented Human, and its goal is to have the smallest ecological footprint at Expo 2025 Osaka. Designed by Manuel Herz Architects, the structure features a cluster of spheres surrounded by plants. This design blends elements of nature and culture, symbolising Switzerland’s commitment to ecological responsibility and its spirit of innovation. Collaborators include NUSSLI Group and BeWunder.

The pavilion is constructed from a lightweight, recyclable ETFE pneumatic envelope supported by a steel frame. Locally grown plants will adorn the spheres, contributing to carbon offset initiatives. The ground level includes an exhibition area, while the top sphere features a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of Osaka Bay. Guests can experience Swiss innovation through interactive exhibits that highlight the connection between nature, technology, and community.

The pavilion will be taken apart and completely recycled after the Expo, showing Switzerland’s dedication to recycling and caring for the environment.

Image © FDFA, Presence Switzerland

The UK Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, created by Woo Architects in collaboration with ES Global, focuses on sustainability and modularity. Named Come Build the Future. It features a 10-by-10-metre grid design that allows for simple assembly and disassembly. This pavilion emphasises the circular economy and reducing environmental impact for Expo 2025.

The main features are a demountable structure that can be easily repurposed after the Expo, which helps reduce transportation and waste. It has adaptable components, like flat roofs that can hold solar panels or wind turbines. This approach shows a new “global modular system” designed to support sustainable building solutions.

The pavilion’s design reflects the ongoing partnership between the UK and Japan, highlighting their mutual dedication to tackling future global challenges like sustainable urban development.

The USA Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, designed by Trahan Architects, carries the theme Imagine What We Can Create Together. Its open design is inspired by Japanese footbridges and includes a gently curved central plaza, symbolising balance and simplicity. At the heart of the pavilion stands a clear, floating cube that creates a reflective space where visitors can engage with changing images of American landscapes, urban scenes, and views of outer space.

The pavilion showcases themes like sustainability, space exploration, education, and entrepreneurship. The design uses eco-friendly materials, including repurposed steel and components from Tokyo Olympic structures, to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. After the Expo, these materials will be reused.

The pavilion is situated between the East Entrance Plaza and the Forest of Tranquility, inviting visitors from around the world to discover cultural and environmental stories of the United States, fostering understanding and collaboration.

ES Global built the pavilion and BeWunder contributed to the multisensory experience. BRC Imagination Arts developed immersive exhibits, including one that lets visitors digitally tour the country.

Image courtesy of Trahan Architects

The Uzbekistan Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, known as the Garden of Knowledge, was designed by Atelier Brückner and constructed using modular, reusable wooden elements. It blends traditional and modern styles and will be transformed into a studio, workshop, or school in Uzbekistan after the Expo. Partners include NUSSLI Group and BeWunder.

The pavilion’s design is inspired by Uzbekistan’s traditional embroidery and patterns, with an emphasis on sustainability. Visitors can explore three main areas: education, innovation, and clean energy, all of which reinforce Uzbekistan’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The “incubator,” a brightly lit platform, provides an engaging experience and is a key feature of the pavilion.

Spaces like the Garden of Stories, Field of Knowledge, and a rooftop café create an inviting atmosphere for learning and discussing future societies.

Image © Atelier Brückner