Expo 2025 Osaka, which officially opened in [April 2025], is now in full swing, welcoming visitors from around the world. Celebrating the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," the Expo showcases innovative ideas and solutions for a sustainable future.

Among the many impressive national pavilions, the Netherlands Pavilion stands out with its striking design and inspiring message. Built under the concept of "Common Ground," it highlights the importance of collaboration, water management, and living in harmony with nature. During a special preview tour, we had the opportunity to explore this remarkable space—and we’re excited to share the experience with you!

The Netherlands' Theme: "Common Ground"

The Netherlands Pavilion is located on the west side of the "Grand Roof Ring" area at Expo 2025 Osaka. Just as we’ve seen in the concept images, the pavilion is instantly recognizable by a striking large white sphere. Near the entrance, a figure of Miffy—the beloved children's character created by Dutch artist Dick Bruna—adds a charming accent to the sleek and modern building design.

The pavilion’s theme is "Common Ground," which symbolizes the foundation of collaboration. Much of the Netherlands' land lies below sea level, and the country has a long history of reclaiming land using wind power and other innovations to live in harmony with water. This background highlights the importance of sharing knowledge and working together, a message the pavilion aims to convey. Visitors follow a guided, experiential journey alongside a small glowing sphere called the "Orb," which leads them through the story.

Receiving Your Orb and Starting the Journey

At the center of the first floor, visitors can experience a space inspired by the movement of water.

The journey begins when staff members hand out an Orb at reception. (Fun fact: The staff uniforms are part of a circular fashion collection by Shijvens Corporate Fashion, a Dutch company with over 160 years of history.)

After receiving your Orb, you touch a special mirror to activate it, changing its color to orange—the national color of the Netherlands.

Throughout the pavilion, interactive stations invite visitors to use their Orb to explore topics like water management and renewable energy in a hands-on way.

An Immersive Theater Experience Inside the Sphere

At the top of the pavilion, the large white sphere—visible from outside—reveals a breathtaking surprise inside: an immersive theater. Designed like a planetarium, it invites visitors to lie back or look upward, Orb in hand, and lose themselves in a stunning visual journey titled "A New Dawn," which imagines a sustainable future.

The experience is more than just a visual spectacle. Sophisticated lighting, atmospheric sound design, and even the Orbs themselves—glowing in sync with the show—create a dreamlike environment. It's a mesmerizing space where visitors can feel connected to the future, while also capturing some truly unforgettable, photogenic moments.

Exclusive Collaborations and Dutch Treats

At the Netherlands Pavilion, visitors can find exclusive collaboration merchandise featuring beloved Dutch character Miffy, known worldwide for her simple and charming design by artist Dick Bruna. Special edition Miffy plush toys holding an Orb—available in both large and small sizes—are among the must-have items for fans and perfect souvenirs for children.

The pavilion also features a café offering classic Dutch flavors. You can enjoy specialties like broodje haring (a sandwich made with herring), Dutch waffles, and tosti grilled cheese sandwiches made with Gouda cheese.

Upcoming Events at the Netherlands Pavilion

Over the next six months, the Netherlands Pavilion will host a variety of special events. Here’s a sneak peek:

• Netherlands National Day – May 21
• Performance of "UNUM" by Introdans Dance Company – May 21
• Lecture by Dutch baseball player Rick van den Hurk – June 27
• Concert by the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra – June 20

If you’re planning to visit Expo 2025, consider timing your trip to coincide with one of these events.

More Information: 👉 Netherlands Pavilion Official Page