Regarding world expos, the excitement isn't just about the futuristic pavilions and cutting-edge technologies; it's also about the charming mascots representing the event's heart. For Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, that honor belongs to Myaku-Myaku, a character as unique as its theme: Designing Future Society for Our Lives.
This quirky, lovable mascot isn't just a marketing figure; it's a symbol of unity, progress, and creativity. So, let's dive into the story behind Myaku-Myaku and discover why this character has captured the imagination of people worldwide.
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The journey of began with a competition that drew nearly 2,000 entries from designers and creatives across Japan. Yamashita Kouhei's winning design stood out for its deeply symbolic elements.
The character combines cells and water, representing life's essence and human DNA's continuity. Its red parts signify the multiplication of cells, while the blue areas represent the flow of water—an eternal pulse connecting humanity across generations.
Even its name, Myaku-Myaku, carries profound meaning. Taken from a Japanese onomatopoeia for "steadily pulsing," it reflects the continuity of life, wisdom, and innovation—values central to the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai theme.
If you're picturing a conventional mascot, think again. Myaku-Myaku defies expectations with its amorphous shape, a mix of whimsy and wonder.
With a blue, flowing torso and a vibrant redhead adorned with multiple eyes, the character is as enigmatic as it is endearing. Myaku-Myaku isn't just about appearances, though.
This official character has unique abilities, including shape-shifting and summoning rainbows after storms. How's that for versatility?
It embodies the flexibility and resilience needed to tackle the challenges of designing a future society.
Mascots like Myaku-Myaku do more than look cute on posters—they carry a message. For Expo 2025 Osaka, Myaku-Myaku embodies the event's vision of fostering innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration.
It aligns perfectly with the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations and symbolizes the expo's mission to connect and empower lives. The expo site, an artificial island in Osaka Bay called Yumeshima, reflects this spirit of innovation.
The pavilion area will showcase the latest technologies, from big data applications to solutions for sustainable living. Myaku-Myaku will serve as a bridge between these advancements and visitors, reminding us of the human connection at the heart of it.
Since its debut, Myaku-Myaku has been busy. The mascot has appeared at events across Japan and internationally, including in Australia and Vietnam.
These visits aren't just for show; they reflect the expo's goal of engaging the international community and inviting people from all walks of life to participate in this global event. The Japan Association for Expo 2025 has also been rolling out merchandise featuring Myaku-Myaku, with everything from plush toys to keychains flying off the shelves.
Stores in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, along with an online shop, ensure that fans can take a piece of the expo spirit home.
With the theme Designing Future Society for Our Lives, Expo 2025 Osaka isn't just another world exposition—it's a people's living lab. Over six months, it will tackle pressing global challenges like sustainable food production, transportation, and climate change through innovative exhibits and pavilions.
The expo's location in the Kansai region, near cultural hubs like Kyoto, adds another layer of richness to the experience. Myaku-Myaku plays a crucial role in communicating these themes to the world.
Its design, rooted in the history and culture of the Kansai region, reminds us of the wisdom passed down through generations. At the same time, its futuristic form inspires hope for the future.
Myaku-Myaku is the official mascot of Expo 2025 Osaka. It blends tradition and innovation to symbolize the pulse of humanity's progress. Its unique design, featuring flowing blue and red elements, represents the continuity of life, culture, and innovation.
This lovable character embodies the expo's mission to connect lives and empower people for a sustainable future. As a global ambassador, Myaku-Myaku inspires excitement and curiosity, uniting the world around the event's vision of designing a better society.
As we count down to April 2025, Myaku-Myaku is more than just a mascot—it's the heartbeat of Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai. Its playful yet profound design perfectly encapsulates the expo's mission of creating a better future for all.
So, the next time you see Myaku-Myaku, remember: it's not just a character; it's a call to action. A call to connect lives, empower people, and design a society that thrives on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
After all, isn't that what the world expo is all about?
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Where can I purchase official Myaku-Myaku merchandise?
Official Myaku-Myaku merchandise, including plush toys, T-shirts, and keychains, is available at select department stores such as Abeno Harukas Kintetsu Main Store and Daimaru Umeda Store. Additionally, items can be purchased online through the official store for Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan's official licensed products.
Has Myaku-Myaku collaborated with other popular characters?
Yes, Myaku-Myaku has collaborated with Sanrio characters, resulting in a collection of plush toys featuring Sanrio characters dressed as Myaku-Myaku. This collection was released on October 11, 2024, and is available at official Expo stores and select Sanrio shops.
What public appearances has Myaku-Myaku made to promote Expo 2025?
Myaku-Myaku has made various public appearances, including a promotional event in Paris during a Japan-France tourism event in May 2024. The mascot was also featured in a drone show over Osaka's night sky in May 2024, celebrating the countdown to the Expo.
Are there any unique installations featuring Myaku-Myaku in Osaka?
To mark 500 days before the Expo's opening, the exterior walls of the South Gate Building of Osaka Station City were wrapped with a design featuring Japan's most prominent depiction of Myaku-Myaku. This installation aims to promote the Expo and will remain until October 13, 2025.
Is Myaku-Myaku available as a collectible figure?
Good Smile Company has released a Nendoroid figure of Myaku-Myaku, approximately 90mm in height. The figure is available for purchase through various retailers, including Plaza Japan.
