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KONNICHIWA!
A newsletter from Oki Sato, general producer.
Updates from the Japan Pavilion, and his thoughts for the day.
Architecture
“Grand Roof (Ring)”
Directly in front of the Japan Pavilion stands the iconic symbol of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai – the “Grand Roof (Ring)”! Its sheer enormity is awe-inspiring! Above all, it’s intensely intimidating!
I can’t shake off the imagery of “Wall Maria” from a certain beloved manga. Unfortunately, our Japan Pavilion finds itself positioned on the exterior of this colossal ring, almost like a predestined target for the titans.
This and That
Stepping into a Cab at Shin-Osaka Station...
“Please take me to the Expo Osaka site on Yumeshima.”
“What?”
“To the Expo site, please.”
“Expo?”
“Yes.”
“The Expo isn’t open yet.”
“Yes, I know that, but I need to go.”
“I’m saying the Expo hasn’t started yet.”
Conversely, if the Expo had already commenced, we’d be in a bind. After three rounds of this exchange, I finally moved forward and reached the site. The current view reveals a vague outline of the Japan Pavilion, or maybe not.
It’s hard to articulate, but the foundation seems oddly charming. This might be the first time in my life that I’ve found a foundation to be cute. Perhaps I’m feeling a bit fatigued these days...
Thoughts
The twelfth issue of the Monthly JP Pavilion
The twelfth issue of the Monthly JP Pavilion will be the final edition.
The current issue contains an embarrassing interview with me talking about the Japan Pavilion.
Unlike this KONNICHIWA! newsletter, where I get to say what I like, the Monthly JP Pavilion is a bit more serious. Take a look when you have a moment.
Personally, I want people to notice the early concept sketches used here and there.
If you look closely, you can see how the water basin in the courtyard is designed like multiple layers of concentric rings, and how the methane fermentation tank installation features a flow plan with intense ups and downs. The final result we see now is the outcome of various changes.
And even just looking at these sketches makes me feel all tired again, so I try never to look at them myself!
New
Architecture
Pop In — You’ll Be Pleasantly Surprised
This is just between you and me.
(Never trust a person who says that)
Along with the exhibition rooms in the Japan Pavilion, there is another space I recommend visiting.
The passion Nikken Sekkei brought to the design was extraordinary. Amazed, I shouted with joy when I saw it! It’s a restroom.
There is one outside and three inside, and they are all so pleasant.
Just before the test run at the beginning of April, I secretly conducted a test run myself, so I can assure you of their quality.
Trust me when I say this: I’m known as a designer who is even more particular about his restrooms than about his designs.
You can hate the exhibits, but don't hate the restrooms. Give them a try if you don’t believe me.