On 13 April, Expo 2025 Osaka opened its doors in Japan, launching a six-month showcase of global innovation, culture and collaboration. With over 160 countries and international organisations taking part, and an estimated 28 million visitors expected, the scale is unprecedentent.The international exhibition in Japan will run for six months, until October 13th.
We Are One: A Baltic Message of Unity
Partnering with Latvia, Lithuania is represented in the joint Baltic Pavilion under the slogan ‘We Are One’. This message highlights unity and shared responsibility in addressing global challenges. At its heart is a striking installation: a green glass wall symbolising the Baltic forests. Named ‘Kizuna,’ which translates from Japanese as a close, emotional bond, the wall highlights the connection between people and their relationship with nature, other individuals, communities, and nations. The wall’s unique technology creates a condensation effect, allowing visitors to leave messages on its surface. The messages disappear within a few minutes, prompting reflection on individual actions and their impact on the planet.
Pavilion visitors can also explore the “Nature’s Pharmacy,” showcasing approximately 300 samples of Baltic meadow plants, along with explanations of their unique properties and applications for improving health and quality of life. Additionally, everyone has the opportunity to symbolically participate in planting a forest in the Baltics. Each digitally planted tree will also be physically planted in Latvia and Lithuania in specially created forests in Tērvete and Joniškis.
Stories Told by the Community
To shape the Pavilion’s visual narrative, Lithuanians were invited to share video clips capturing moments of culture, celebration, nature and creativity. These clips have been turned into montages displayed across the Pavilion’s screens, offering millions of visitors an authentic window into Lithuania.
Tourism and Business Opportunities on Show
Expo 2025 is also a key opportunity for Lithuania’s tourism and business sectors. From 26 April, Travel Lithuania will present the country’s sauna culture, resonating with Japan’s own interest in wellness.
In mid-May, the Innovation Agency will host business events introducing Lithuanian companies to the Japanese market in areas such as smart cities, green energy and digital tech. A dedicated Baltic Business Catalogue on Pavilion screens will offer further exposure.
A Stage for Art, Music and Film
Lithuania’s creative achievements are also in the spotlight. A special concert on 6 July, Lithuania’s National Day, will honour composer Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, with another event planned for 22 September to mark the 150th anniversary of his birth.
On 23 August, Baltic Day will celebrate Lithuanian and Latvian song festival traditions. Lithuanian animated films Roots and Blue Moon will be screened during the European Film Days, and artist Jolita Vaitkutė will present a new installation at the Jellyfish Pavilion, where author Elena Selena will also lead creative workshops.
A Taste of Lithuania
Lithuania’s cultural diplomacy extends to food. The AmaZen project blends Lithuanian mineral water with Japanese amazake, offering visitors a unique drink that symbolises cross-cultural connection.
Meanwhile, šaltibarščiai – the cold beetroot soup – has been reimagined by chefs at Kura Sushi for Expo 2025, earning a place among the top six dishes on the restaurant’s official menu.
A Lasting Impression
With its powerful mix of tradition, innovation, and hospitality, Lithuania’s presence at Expo 2025 is both timely and impactful. From immersive installations to bold flavours and business potential, the country is proving that even smaller nations have big stories to tell.
For the latest updates, visit www.baltics2025expo.com or follow @baltics2025expo on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.
