Pavilion

Ocean, the Blue Dialogue

"Ocean, the Blue Dialogue" is the theme of Portugal's participation in Expo 2025 Osaka. As a country historically, culturally and economically focused on the ocean and its ecosystems, Portugal sees its participation in this world expo as an opportunity to advance the commitments it has made to achieve SDG 14 (conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources) and SDG 7 (ensure access to reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all), by promoting projects and fruitful partnerships between government institutions, companies, academia and NGOs.

It will also show the world the country's historical relationship with the oceans, its knowledge of the Atlantic Ocean and the innovative and inspiring technologies that place Portugal at the forefront of a sustainable blue economy.

The Ocean, which allowed Portugal and Japan to 'meet' almost 500 years ago, will show visitors to Expo 2025 Osaka, through a programme of unique events and exhibitions, the importance of the seas and oceans as drivers of the economy and a source of innovation, promoting the conservation of the marine environment and the services of its ecosystems.

The Pavilion

The Portuguese Pavilion is the venue for Portugal's participation in the Osaka World Expo. During the 184 days of the event, it will host an exhibition divided into two sections highlighting past and current relationships with Japan.

In addition to the exhibition spaces, the Portugal Pavilion includes a shop, a restaurant highlighting Portuguese gastronomy, and a multi-purpose space prepared to host various events. A wide range of economic, scientific and cultural programmes promote the internationalisation of the Portuguese economy in sectors identified as priorities, namely the Blue Economy, Tourism and Culture.

Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the Portugal Pavilion invites visitors to dive into and discover the ocean, metaphorically bringing a piece of the ocean to Expo 2025 Osaka. The way the ocean moves is shown in the Pavilion by breaking it down.

Suspended ropes and recycled nets use their materiality to create a more perennial effect and exposure to natural elements such as the sun and wind. The Pavilion looks like a wave from outside, with the upper part hanging like it's in the air, creating a striking image for visitors and passers-by.

Watch the interview with architect Kengo Kuma:

Located in the 'Empowering Lives' area of the Expo 2025 Osaka site, on a 1,836.75 square metre plot, the pavilion follows the concepts of sustainability and circular economy in strict compliance with the best technical and environmental practices that contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of Portugal's participation in the event.

The Portugal Pavilion's strategic location, its dynamic composition, and the light and shadow scenario created by the ropes and nets provide visitors with an extraordinary spectacle, acting as a "beacon" on the Expo 2025 Osaka site.

This location also offers a unique space for interaction between the Expo 2025 Osaka Grand Ring and the Pavilion. The exterior view of the Portugal Pavilion in the ring conveys the sensation of floating and immersion in a dynamic environment as visitors move through the space.

Designed to be a centre for cultural activities, the Grand Ring provides an immersive experience that inspires collaboration and cooperation between the participating countries.

The Exhibition