Niigata Prefecture Exhibits at Osaka-Kansai Expo – Showcasing Nishikigoi, Fireworks, Snow, and More
The “EXPO 2025 Osaka-Kansai,” held on Yumeshima in Konohana Ward, Osaka City, runs for 184 days from April 13 to October 13, 2025. For Osaka, this is the first World Expo in 55 years since the 1970 Osaka Expo, and for Japan as a whole, it is the first domestic World Expo in 20 years since Expo 2005 World Exposition, Aichi, Japan.
The Expo features more than 180 pavilions presented by countries, regions, companies, and organizations, each designed around a unique theme. These pavilions aim to provide visitors with new experiences and discoveries while showcasing visions for future society.
Within the venue, Gallery WEST hosts limited-time exhibitions by prefectures, municipalities, and various organizations. From July 13 to 17, Niigata Prefecture presented “Colors of Niigata – Traditional Culture and Craftsmanship,” showcasing the region’s specialty products.
The gallery was divided into three zones. The entrance zone, highlighting local resources, featured a snowman made from real snow and a dome where visitors could feel the coolness of natural snow, drawing much curiosity.
In the experiential zone, large-screen displays allowed visitors to enjoy traditional crafts, the spectacular fireworks of Nagaoka, and the beautiful seasonal landscapes as if they were actually there. A floor-mounted LED panel featuring 3D digital koi responded to visitors’ footsteps, generating ripples and messages, allowing children to interact playfully with the koi.
The interactive zone promoted the attractions of various cities and towns. Booths from Niigata City, Itoigawa City, and Tsunan Town offered participatory activities, including commemorative photos with flame-style pottery (Tsunan Town), mini Japanese kite workshops inspired by the giant kites of Shirone (Niigata City), and jade-hunting experiences (Itoigawa City).
On July 15, at the Reborn Stage within the Expo, Japan Pet Design and Neo Dream, an aquarium company, held an exhibition. Seven koi, including the “Gosanke” raised in JPD’s pond, were displayed in the bed of a light truck converted into a garden-style pond. Visitors from both Japan and abroad also enjoyed goldfish scooping, earning high praise for the interactive experience.










