OSAKA EXPO 2025 Outdoor Date

After checking out, we head to Osaka Station. We meet Jiyun, who is 7 minutes late. Since there are coin lockers inside the station, we don’t go outside but store our suitcases in the lockers, then take the JR train to Bentencho Station. From here, it’s crowded with people.

Pushed by the crowd and Jiyun, we arrive at Yumesima Expo Station at 10:07, 7 minutes later than 10:00. Following the control, we head to the designated lines. There are separate lines for 09:00, 10:00, and 11:00, but no additional verification procedures.

The East Gate (Yumesima Station) has a total of 27 entry gates where PET bottles (opened) are inspected and X-ray security checks are conducted outside. Although there is a roof, it is an outdoor area vulnerable to rain, wind, and high heat and humidity. We wait in line for about 40 minutes and finish entering around 10:47.

Only the Gundam pavilion was reserved two months in advance. After entering, we spend about 30 minutes adapting by quickly circling half a lap around the ring to get a feel for the site. At 12:00, we make an additional reservation for a pavilion that has availability on the same day.

We visit about two places that don’t require reservations, then recharge with wagyu skewers and draft beer at the Osaka food court building. For those who don’t want to walk, shuttle buses operate with six stops, costing 400 yen per ride or 1,000 yen for a day pass.

As known, the expo site boasts a grand, donut-shaped, massive wooden structure, unfolding like an amusement park. We allocate 4 hours and move with a short and intense plan. At 12:00, we spend about 30 minutes at the Blue Ocean Dome pavilion.

Before the next Gundam entry time, we explore the area under the roof for about 30 minutes. Everywhere at the expo, it’s a moment that makes you think how well it’s made, very Japanese. I’m considering experiencing the summer night again during the Kobe trip in June and July with night openings.

We enter at the reserved Gundam time. We move sequentially through five spaces. I had a similar experience at Huis Ten Bosch. It’s not interactive but just for viewing, so the concept of going up to space by elevator doesn’t quite fit.

5D Plex was realized over 10 years ago, but without movement, it lacks vitality. However, for Gundam fans, it’s a fantastic space. We are given the privilege to take photos of the Gundam pamphlet and the back of the Gundam.

It takes nearly 25 minutes on foot from the Gundam area to the East Gate exit at Yumesima Station. At the time of reservation, we didn’t know about the shuttle inside the venue, so we booked the return trip from the West Gate bus stop to Osaka Station.

Reservations are easy through the Kansai Mass app, and you can choose the route that’s convenient. If you don’t have the app, it’s also possible via the website. The fare is more than twice the train, but it’s faster and more convenient.

As a place for outdoor dates for couples or friends, I confidently say there is no better event worldwide right now. Experience the world festival held once every five years in Osaka! Thank you.

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