The Japanese Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka embodies the ‘Cycle of Life’ – All photos are courtesy of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Architecture. The Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, designed by Nikken Sekkei and Nendo founder Oki Sato, poetically explores the interconnectedness of all lives—humans, societies, as well as animals, and plants (because “we are not alone”)–as part of one singular cycle with no beginning nor end. Visitors explore three interconnected zones, revealing different aspects of circularity. Its ring-shaped structure embodies the ‘cycle of life’ and stands as a distinct presence with a sustainable mission.

• RELATED STORIES: Read more about Expo 2025 Osaka on archipanic.com.

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Constructed from cross-laminated timber, the seismic-resisting pavilion consists of a large circular arrangement of wooden planks, enabling guests to view both interior and exterior areas, symbolising the transitions between various states of life. 

“CLT offers a novel system that enhances the potential of wood utilisation by transforming small-diameter logs into thin laminates stacked to create large panels.” Nikken Sekei told Archipanic.

Exhibits and architecture allow visitors to see the interior, linking the outer and inner spaces. This fosters an appreciation of what lies “between,” which is central to the pavilion’s theme.

Microorganisms decompose the Expo site’s garbage, transforming it into biogas. Visitors can witness this process through an on-site installation, experiencing a ‘living pavilion’ that uses power from its own plant. Guests walk in a circle through the building’s three zones to gain an understanding of the Japanese aesthetic concept of circulation and themselves become part of a grand, unending story.

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“We wanted to create an immersive experience — not just a showcase of exhibits, but something visitors can see in action,” explains Oki Sato. “Our goal was to create a truly ‘living’ Japan Pavilion — a space that embodies circulation and renewal in a tangible, impactful way’.

After the exhibition, the CLT panels will be taken apart and sent back to the Japan Cross Laminated Timber Association for repurposing in future architectural projects. “This regenerative feature serves as a testament to its alignment with the pavilion’s overarching ‘Cycle’ theme.” Nikken Sekei conclude.

All photos are courtesy of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.