On the occasion of Expo 2025 in Japan, we are embarking on a network trip from June 17 to 27, 2025, visiting the World Expo in Osaka and Kyoto, as well as the UNESCO Cities of Design Kobe and Nagoya. The trip will conclude with a visit to the capital, Tokyo.

On December 9, 2024, we will provide information about the trip during an information session at the Creative Industries Styria office (Marienplatz 1, 8020 Graz) starting at 4.00 pm. Are you interested in participating in the trip? Then we warmly invite you to the information session (please register via email to barbara.nussmueller@cis.at).

Expo 2025 in Osaka

Following the theme »Designing Future Society for Our Lives,« the Expo will take place in Osaka from April 13 to October 13, 2025. The event is envisioned as a “laboratory for the society of the future” and explores the sub-themes “Saving Lives,” “Empowering Lives,” and “Connecting Lives.” Austria will also be represented with a pavilion at the Expo. The Austrian contribution, under the motto “Composing the Future,” will focus on music – a connecting element of Austrian and Japanese culture.

UNESCO Cities of Design

The city of Kobe is known for its diverse culture, unique architecture, and commitment to design. The city’s creative spirit and design initiatives have earned it a place in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a City of Design. Nagoya is a major manufacturing center with a rich history and a special focus on design. The city has embraced design as a means of community promotion and has hosted several international design conferences and events. Like Kobe, Nagoya has been designated a UNESCO City of Design in 2008.