Osaka, August 14, 2025 – Thursday marked the start of four days entirely dedicated to the Azores at the Portugal Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai 2025 World Expo. Neither the scorching sun nor the torrential rain in Osaka prevented hundreds of visitors from queuing at the entrance to the exhibition hall, many of them to experience the archipelago for the first time.

The Vice-President of the Regional Government, Artur Lima, attended the inauguration of the space dedicated to the Azores, highlighting the importance of the region’s presence and of fostering this dialogue between nations.

“In Osaka, we seek inspiration. This is the stage where more than 160 countries and regions from around the world showcase their identity and share their perspectives for the future. But we are also present at Expo 2025 to inspire,” he said.

The program provided visitors with a complete sensory experience, from flavors to music. The visitors, mostly Japanese, toasted with regional wines and tasted some of the archipelago’s typical delicacies. On the table, the handicrafts were carefully appreciated, and there were exclamations of amazement at the embroidery, ceramics, teapots, alcatra bowls, and many other pieces. The marralhinha piqued the curiosity of the little one, and the typical Corvo locks were handled with fascination, like a puzzle to be solved.

The Viola da Terra, at the center of the exhibition, could also be heard throughout the day, played by Luís Gil Bettencourt. At various times, he handed it to the most curious visitors who ventured to strum the instrument. At the end of the day, with Maria Bettencourt, a concert was held that filled the room with people of various nationalities trying to sing along to “Olhos Negros” and “Pézinho da Vila,” even though they did not speak the language.

“The Azores and Japan share a destiny of mutual discovery. The presence of the Azores in Osaka is just the beginning of that journey,” said Artur Lima.

The Region is bringing to Expo Osaka-Kansai 2025 a celebration of the emotional connection between the archipelago and Japan with the theme “Between Hearts.” It will be on display until August 17, in the Portugal Pavilion, already considered one of the must-see attractions at this Expo.

All updates on the Azores’ participation in Expo Osaka 2025 can be found on the official website http://www.azoresexpo2025.pt and on the project’s social media.

In Rádio Ilhéu https://radioilheu.pt/atualidade-acores-estreiam-programacao-no-pavilhao-de-portugal-da-expo-osaka-2025/

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.