Osaka Expo｜The Underrated Blue Ocean Dome by Kenya Hara and Shigeru Ban

With less than a month left until the end of the Osaka Expo, the Blue Ocean Dome is undoubtedly one of the must-visit pavilions.

As the final month approaches, the crowds have grown significantly compared to the opening days. While the lottery system for seven-day or three-day passes has a very low success rate, the same-day lottery surprisingly offers better odds than it did back in April. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.

The Blue Ocean Dome, composed of three spherical structures, is a collaborative creation by renowned designers Shigeru Ban and Kenya Hara. Using carbon fiber, bamboo, and paper, they have crafted a fantastical and sustainable design concept. The pavilion is especially stunning at night when illuminated, with its reflection on the adjacent water pool creating a breathtaking view.

This privately-operated pavilion conveys a comprehensive message about sustainability, ocean plastic pollution, and recycling. Upon entering the first dome, visitors are greeted with art installations that simulate the water cycle. The bamboo-constructed architecture creates a warm and poetic atmosphere. The second dome houses a theater with a massive spherical screen that showcases a film about ocean rejuvenation, addressing issues like overfishing, global warming, and plastic waste pollution. The film is deeply moving, leaving the audience in reflective silence after it ends.

The final dome, constructed from paper tubes arranged in an atom-like structure, is both intriguing and innovative. Notably, the pavilion is designed to be fully recyclable after the exhibition concludes, ensuring minimal industrial waste.

📍Address: 〒554-0044 Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, Konohana Ward, Yumeshima Naka 1-chome
🚗 Access: From Yumeshima Station, a 15-minute walk from the East Entrance or a 2-minute walk from the West Entrance.

Post by 旅行中的野馬 | Sep 19, 2025