OSAKA, Japan, May 31: Since its opening last month, the Kuwait Pavilion at the 2025 Expo Osaka has attracted large numbers of visitors, many of whom have had to wait in long queues to enter the site. Named the "Future Lighthouse," the pavilion showcases a rich cultural display that blends Kuwait’s authentic heritage with modern elements, reflecting a nation that honors tradition while embracing progress. It also highlights culture’s role in fostering dialogue and understanding between countries.

Two women in their twenties, waiting in line at the pavilion, told KUNA they were drawn by a social media video showing visitors touching sand inside the pavilion. "It looked fun, so we decided to come today to experience it ourselves," they said.

A visiting family described their experience as "wonderful," especially enjoying the planetarium exhibit that simulated lying in the desert. "We hope to come again," they added.

The Kuwait Pavilion spans two floors: one dedicated to the country’s heritage and traditions, and the other illustrating its aspirations for the future. Visitors embark on a journey through Kuwait’s past, present, and future across four exhibition halls that combine traditional themes with advanced technology. The intersection between the two floors is called "The Pearl," a tribute to Kuwait’s historical pearl diving industry and maritime heritage. Each section tells a unique story through interactive displays and artificial intelligence.

On Friday evening, the pavilion’s stage was enlivened by a performance from the Kuwaiti folklore troupe, coinciding with a visit from His Highness Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. The performance drew great enthusiasm from visitors. A group of five women told KUNA they greatly enjoyed the show. One said, "Kuwaiti music sounds rhythmic and beautiful." Another added, "We didn’t know much about Kuwait, but this music made us feel connected to the country."

Minister of Information, Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi previously told KUNA that the Kuwait Pavilion features rich, multidimensional content reflecting both Kuwait’s heritage and its future ambitions. The pavilion’s design emphasizes creativity and innovation while highlighting Kuwait’s cultural openness and core values.

The 2025 Expo Osaka is being held on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Kansai, Japan, from April 13 to October 13. The expo’s theme is "Designing a Future Society for Our Lives," with sub-themes including "Saving Lives," "Empowering Lives," and "Connecting Lives." The event aims to tackle global challenges through innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange, showcasing new scientific and technological achievements.

More than 160 countries and nine international organizations are participating, with over 28 million visitors expected.

Kuwait was among only four Arab countries to participate in the 1970 Osaka Expo — the first expo hosted by Japan — which attracted over 64 million visitors.