The Future of Life pavilion is built around the theme, “Toward a City of Happiness,” offering visitors a glimpse into the possibilities of future urban living. Created in collaboration with the Expo Association and 12 partnering companies and organizations, this pavilion presents 15 different attractions that invite guests to experience what life and society might be like in the years ahead. Get ready to be wowed by the advanced technologies that await!

The Future of Life pavilion is located on the west side of the Expo’s signature Grand Ring roof, and the only one along the waterfront, offering stunning views of Osaka Bay. On clear days, you may even see Kobe, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, or Awaji Island in the distance. It’s also one of the largest pavilions at the Expo, with its white exterior standing out beautifully against the blue sky.

The exterior is made of two layers—an inner membrane and an outer mesh—that create shifting moiré patterns depending on sunlight, lighting, and viewing angle. The outer layer is the world’s first photocatalytic mesh membrane, which uses sunlight to break down dirt and harmful substances. Mist is released from underneath the membrane to help cool the area during the day, while setting the scene for a dreamy, illuminated atmosphere at night.

Inside the pavilion, a pathway called the Corridor connects Halls A, B, and C. The space features futuristic wall designs and gently curving, wave-shaped benches, offering a spot to rest while building anticipation for the next attraction. Osaka Bay sits right outside the doors, creating a visual contrast between the futuristic inside and the present-day scenery just beyond.

Without further ado, here are some of the top can't-miss futuristic experiences in each hall, as introduced by Live Japan staff writer Johanna!

The first stop is Hall A, with an exhibit called “4 Billion Years: A Journey of Happiness”. Here, you’ll travel through time as you watch human history unfold right before your eyes on the massive curved screen, from the birth of our species to the beginning of modern society, and into a future envisioned as Society 5.0. As you follow the winding path, interactive visuals appear around each bend, immersing you in a journey that feels as if you’re truly stepping through time.

Standing before any of the four glowing cubes reveals a 3D depiction of daily life in a futuristic city. As the visuals come to life, it’s easy to imagine this kind of living and healthcare becoming reality in the near future. Now that’s something to get excited for!

Every seat in the theater is equipped with a smart device, with which all 120 attendees in the theater can work to solve future social challenges in a simulated cyber world. By making real-time choices, you’ll watch the future cityscape evolve right before your eyes, transforming the entire room into a shared futuristic experience.

This interactive game-style attraction uses large touch panels to present modern-day social issues. Players throw "Future Balls,” each containing possible solutions, at these challenges, learning as they play. If your shot lands, hints and advice related to environmental solutions appear on screen. Even kids can join in to learn more about the challenges facing our world in a fun and interactive way.

Hall C greets you with massive, face-shaped robots made from eco-friendly cardboard. Each of the four robots’ corners presents a different version of an ideal future through videos about their respective theme.

Further inside are even more eye-catching exhibits, including full-scale models of the ALICE Cabin and ALICE Rail: futuristic transport capsules based on the concept of personal mobility. Set your destination, and the entire capsule seamlessly integrates with various modes of transportation, including cars, trains, airplanes, and even boats, eliminating the need for transfers.

The inside of the capsule boasts spacious seats and a comfortable setting. There’s a robotic arm that serves drinks, and a digital concierge to guide your journey. There's even the possibility for remote medical checkups during long-distance travel! It’s a system truly designed to fulfill the innate human desire to travel freely and comfortably.

Powered by hydrogen, this system is built for more than just for mobility. It can also generate electricity at home! This paints a vision of a future where travel is sustainable, and stress-free for the environment and its people.

A requirement for true sustainable agriculture is that it is gentle on both the planet and its people. This booth features two fully autonomous, general-purpose platform robots designed to reduce environmental impact while operating without human control. These advanced machines work together using the latest technology, making them beneficial in industries beyond agriculture, as well.

The Future Agriculture Simulation Game lets visitors roleplay as farm managers, where they can choose different tools and technology to build a sustainable farm. Up to nine players can participate at once, making it a fun and engaging way to get both adults and kids (grades 4 and up) thinking about the future of farming.

The exhibit also traces the evolution of Japanese food culture, from hunting and foraging to the introduction of rice cultivation, all the way to modern Western cuisine. Digital displays show how food and population trends have evolved through the ages, with bento boxes inspired by the ingredients that were used in each period. It’s great exhibit that food lovers will enjoy!

Other exhibits include those about Environment & Energy, as well as Manufacturing & Urban Development. Each one introduces the latest technologies and innovative ideas. With so much to see, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time when visiting the full Expo.

The Future City Pavilion is a hands-on space where visitors can explore both challenges and solutions for the world of tomorrow. Across the three Exhibition Halls A, B, and C, visitors will encounter a variety of cutting-edge technologies and imaginative takes on future urban living, inspiring new ways of thinking.

Live Japan’s Johanna shares her thoughts:

"Each attraction gave insights into the environment and the future we’re heading toward. The one that stood out the most was the Future Arcade, a simple game where you throw balls and get advice about environmental issues. It’s a fun way for families to start thinking about sustainability, with new ideas really adding depth to the rest of the experience."

This pavilion offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the future up close. If you’re planning to check out Expo 2025 in Osaka, this experience is one you won’t want to overlook. So stop by and discover what tomorrow’s cities might look like. You may even catch a glimpse of your own future happiness!