KONNICHIWA!

A newsletter from Oki Sato, general producer.
News on the Japan Pavilion’s progress, and his thoughts for the day.

All Architecture Exhibition Thoughts This and That

Exhibition

Wandering Around the Pavilion

While checking the finishing touches of the construction, I wander around the pavilion.
During this time, I try to visualize the completed space as vividly as possible — imagining the exhibits, lighting, and sound in high detail.
That said, walking in circles around a circular space for too long starts to mess with my head… and before I know it, I’m completely disoriented, unsure of where I even am.

Exhibition

Biogas Power Generation

This is a facility that receives approximately one ton of waste from the Expo site each day and breaks it down into water, electricity, and CO₂ using the power of microorganisms.
And honestly... it looks incredibly cool.
If visitors end up being more impressed by this than the actual exhibition space inside, well... that might be a bit of a problem.
Then again, maybe that's not such a bad thing after all?

Exhibition

Drawings Using Water

This is a device that creates drawings using water.
Since it's drawn with water, the artwork gradually fades away — a fleeting and ephemeral form of art.
But it's not just about the visuals; the sound of water droplets falling resembles a percussion performance, making it an experience that stimulates all five senses.
For technical direction and engineering, we've brought together an incredible team featuring Mr. Takei from nomena, Mr. Endo from Luftzug, and Mr. Mitani from egao — some of the finest talents in Japan's design scene.
Without these amazing people, I’d probably be feeling just as lost... and disappearing just as fleetingly myself.

Exhibition

Central Courtyard

One of the highlights of the Japan Pavilion is the large central courtyard.
The construction has now entered its final stage, and soon the water basin will be filled with water.
Standing in the courtyard, you might think I'm carefully inspecting the progress with a sharp eye...
...but honestly, I'm just standing there, completely zoned out from exhaustion.

Exhibition

True Form of the Intriguing Poles

The mysterious long rods lined up on the framework, which I mentioned before, are gradually revealing their true form.

Each one is carefully adjusted by hand to create an undulating effect reminiscent of rippling waves on the ocean's surface.
This exhibition space is intentionally designed without video or vibrant colors — it's a performance crafted solely with white light.
From here, we'll need to proceed with the utmost precision.
We'll be constantly shifting perspectives, checking how it looks while walking around, and tirelessly moving about the site.
I might need to book a chiropractor in advance... my back and legs may not survive otherwise — the bittersweet reality of life in my late 40s.

This photo shows a large warehouse being prepared for a simulation. Several officials are sitting in chairs.
Photo of the simulation. Many people involved in the project are looking at the wall where the images are irradiated.
Photograph of the simulation. The clothes of the person in the foreground are also illuminated, indicating that the entire wall and floor are used for the production.

Exhibition

Creating the Scene: Projection Testing in Full Swing

Once again, we’ve constructed an entire exhibition room inside a large warehouse to test video projections. Grids are projected onto the floor and walls during the process, but with so many people involved, everyone inevitably ends up covered in grids—quite a funny sight!

We carefully examine how overlapping projections blend and check for distortions in hard-to-reach areas. Based on this, we adjust the content to avoid or minimize these “trouble spots.”

There’s a particular character set to zoom around the space freely. If you notice them making especially flashy moves, it’s probably because they’re working hard to divert your attention from something tricky. Please, give them a kind smile in return!

A photo of Hello Kitty dressed as the algae to be exhibited. She is comparing the color swatches with the exhibits.
Oki Sato checks the pure white structure of Hello Kitty, dressed as the algae that will be on display, before it is painted with color.
Two pure white moldings of Hello Kitty, dressed as the algae to be exhibited, lie before the color is applied.

Exhibition

Bringing “Algae x Hello Kitty” to Life!

Even when we’ve previewed the designs using a 3D printer, the impression of the shape can change dramatically when scaled to its actual size.
Today’s agenda: a review session for the “Algae x Hello Kitty” exhibition objects.

The white models are still in the shape-checking phase. We run our hands over the smooth surfaces, ensuring that the curves connect naturally.

Next comes the stage where we test several painted versions to finalize the colors and the level of gloss. If the finish is too matte, it can feel heavy and dull, but too much gloss can cause distracting reflections under the spotlight.

One of the most critical aspects is the color and gloss of Hello Kitty’s eyes. We test them over and over again, seeking the most vibrant and expressive look. (Yes, believe it or not, she really does have an expression—if you look closely!)

Long, thin poles lined up on a framework in a warehouse-like area.
Disk-like plates attached to the ends of the rods. Each disk-like plate has a cable attached to it.

Exhibition

Unveiling the Mystery of the Intriguing Poles.

Fascinatingly, long, thin poles are meticulously lined up on the framework, shrouded in an air of mystery.
With delicate hands, we peel away the packing material, revealing a disc-like object perched on each pole.

Viewed from below, they look like this.

Directly beneath the disk lies a metal fitting, facilitating angle adjustments, while adjacent cables enable individual electrical control.

It’s quite the job to adjust each cable just right, but thinking about having to deal with nearly twenty times as many for the actual exhibition? Whew, talk about sweating over it!

A crowd of plastic bottles moves slowly along a conveyor belt, capturing the attention of everyone involved in the project.

Exhibition

​​A Crowd of Slowly Flowing Plastic Bottles.

A crowd of plastic bottles moves slowly along a conveyor belt, capturing the attention of everyone involved in the project.
While the plastic bottles are certainly eye-catching, the real star here is the conveyor belt tirelessly working beneath them.
This demonstration is all about testing the belt’s performance under the weight of the bottles, and so far, it’s passing with flying colors.

We eagerly anticipate what else will circulate at the show!
(Hint: Unfortunately, it won’t be sushi.)

Exhibition

Whoosh...

Whoosh...

“What is the length on the tail of the light?”
“It’s 600mm!”
“Could you try stretching it to 700mm?”
“Sure. Incoming 700mm!”

(Wow! It’s really now stretched by 100mm...!)

“Can you soften the outline around the head of the light more?”
“Absolutely. Softer outline incoming!”

(It’s significantly softer now!)

“Can you slow down the movement of the light midway, more syrupy?”
“Syrupy?”
“Yeah, syrupy.”
(...oh?)

Endless adjustments to the shape and movement of the light continue. I truly admire the dedication of the staff who toiled tirelessly, working day and night to prepare for today’s testing. Thank you very much!

Photo showing lighting fixtures being selected for use in the exhibition rooms

Exhibition

Quest for the Perfect Lighting Fixtures.

Today, we’re on a quest for the perfect lighting fixtures to make our exhibition rooms pop in the Japan Pavilion. The specific criteria, including size, brightness, warmth, and the softness of light contours, are being meticulously determined for each space.
We find ourselves pondering over two distinct lighting scenarios: Is it preferable to have strong light illuminating a dark-colored wall, or would a subtler glow on a light-colored wall be more fitting?
Additionally, we contemplate the warmth factor. Is it more inviting to have warm-colored light grace a cold-colored wall, or does the juxtaposition of cold-colored light against a warm-colored wall create a more harmonious ambiance?

As I delve into these considerations, contemplating the interplay of light and space, my thoughts gradually become as elusive as the mist settling over a tranquil landscape.

Photo showing lighting fixtures being selected for use in the exhibition rooms

Exhibition

Quest for the Perfect Lighting Fixtures.

Today, we’re on a quest for the perfect lighting fixtures to make our exhibition rooms pop in the Japan Pavilion. The specific criteria, including size, brightness, warmth, and the softness of light contours, are being meticulously determined for each space.
We find ourselves pondering over two distinct lighting scenarios: Is it preferable to have strong light illuminating a dark-colored wall, or would a subtler glow on a light-colored wall be more fitting?
Additionally, we contemplate the warmth factor. Is it more inviting to have warm-colored light grace a cold-colored wall, or does the juxtaposition of cold-colored light against a warm-colored wall create a more harmonious ambiance?

As I delve into these considerations, contemplating the interplay of light and space, my thoughts gradually become as elusive as the mist settling over a tranquil landscape.

Exhibition

Whoosh...

Whoosh...

“What is the length on the tail of the light?”
“It’s 600mm!”
“Could you try stretching it to 700mm?”
“Sure. Incoming 700mm!”

(Wow! It’s really now stretched by 100mm...!)

“Can you soften the outline around the head of the light more?”
“Absolutely. Softer outline incoming!”

(It’s significantly softer now!)

“Can you slow down the movement of the light midway, more syrupy?”
“Syrupy?”
“Yeah, syrupy.”
(...oh?)

Endless adjustments to the shape and movement of the light continue. I truly admire the dedication of the staff who toiled tirelessly, working day and night to prepare for today’s testing. Thank you very much!

A crowd of plastic bottles moves slowly along a conveyor belt, capturing the attention of everyone involved in the project.

Exhibition

​​A Crowd of Slowly Flowing Plastic Bottles.

A crowd of plastic bottles moves slowly along a conveyor belt, capturing the attention of everyone involved in the project.
While the plastic bottles are certainly eye-catching, the real star here is the conveyor belt tirelessly working beneath them.
This demonstration is all about testing the belt’s performance under the weight of the bottles, and so far, it’s passing with flying colors.

We eagerly anticipate what else will circulate at the show!
(Hint: Unfortunately, it won’t be sushi.)

Long, thin poles lined up on a framework in a warehouse-like area.
Disk-like plates attached to the ends of the rods. Each disk-like plate has a cable attached to it.

Exhibition

Unveiling the Mystery of the Intriguing Poles.

Fascinatingly, long, thin poles are meticulously lined up on the framework, shrouded in an air of mystery.
With delicate hands, we peel away the packing material, revealing a disc-like object perched on each pole.

Viewed from below, they look like this.

Directly beneath the disk lies a metal fitting, facilitating angle adjustments, while adjacent cables enable individual electrical control.

It’s quite the job to adjust each cable just right, but thinking about having to deal with nearly twenty times as many for the actual exhibition? Whew, talk about sweating over it!

A photo of Hello Kitty dressed as the algae to be exhibited. She is comparing the color swatches with the exhibits.
Oki Sato checks the pure white structure of Hello Kitty, dressed as the algae that will be on display, before it is painted with color.
Two pure white moldings of Hello Kitty, dressed as the algae to be exhibited, lie before the color is applied.

Exhibition

Bringing “Algae x Hello Kitty” to Life!

Even when we’ve previewed the designs using a 3D printer, the impression of the shape can change dramatically when scaled to its actual size.
Today’s agenda: a review session for the “Algae x Hello Kitty” exhibition objects.

The white models are still in the shape-checking phase. We run our hands over the smooth surfaces, ensuring that the curves connect naturally.

Next comes the stage where we test several painted versions to finalize the colors and the level of gloss. If the finish is too matte, it can feel heavy and dull, but too much gloss can cause distracting reflections under the spotlight.

One of the most critical aspects is the color and gloss of Hello Kitty’s eyes. We test them over and over again, seeking the most vibrant and expressive look. (Yes, believe it or not, she really does have an expression—if you look closely!)

This photo shows a large warehouse being prepared for a simulation. Several officials are sitting in chairs.
Photo of the simulation. Many people involved in the project are looking at the wall where the images are irradiated.
Photograph of the simulation. The clothes of the person in the foreground are also illuminated, indicating that the entire wall and floor are used for the production.

Exhibition

Creating the Scene: Projection Testing in Full Swing

Once again, we’ve constructed an entire exhibition room inside a large warehouse to test video projections. Grids are projected onto the floor and walls during the process, but with so many people involved, everyone inevitably ends up covered in grids—quite a funny sight!

We carefully examine how overlapping projections blend and check for distortions in hard-to-reach areas. Based on this, we adjust the content to avoid or minimize these “trouble spots.”

There’s a particular character set to zoom around the space freely. If you notice them making especially flashy moves, it’s probably because they’re working hard to divert your attention from something tricky. Please, give them a kind smile in return!

Exhibition

True Form of the Intriguing Poles

The mysterious long rods lined up on the framework, which I mentioned before, are gradually revealing their true form.

Each one is carefully adjusted by hand to create an undulating effect reminiscent of rippling waves on the ocean's surface.
This exhibition space is intentionally designed without video or vibrant colors — it's a performance crafted solely with white light.
From here, we'll need to proceed with the utmost precision.
We'll be constantly shifting perspectives, checking how it looks while walking around, and tirelessly moving about the site.
I might need to book a chiropractor in advance... my back and legs may not survive otherwise — the bittersweet reality of life in my late 40s.

Exhibition

Central Courtyard

One of the highlights of the Japan Pavilion is the large central courtyard.
The construction has now entered its final stage, and soon the water basin will be filled with water.
Standing in the courtyard, you might think I'm carefully inspecting the progress with a sharp eye...
...but honestly, I'm just standing there, completely zoned out from exhaustion.

Exhibition

Drawings Using Water

This is a device that creates drawings using water.
Since it's drawn with water, the artwork gradually fades away — a fleeting and ephemeral form of art.
But it's not just about the visuals; the sound of water droplets falling resembles a percussion performance, making it an experience that stimulates all five senses.
For technical direction and engineering, we've brought together an incredible team featuring Mr. Takei from nomena, Mr. Endo from Luftzug, and Mr. Mitani from egao — some of the finest talents in Japan's design scene.
Without these amazing people, I’d probably be feeling just as lost... and disappearing just as fleetingly myself.

Exhibition

Biogas Power Generation

This is a facility that receives approximately one ton of waste from the Expo site each day and breaks it down into water, electricity, and CO₂ using the power of microorganisms.
And honestly... it looks incredibly cool.
If visitors end up being more impressed by this than the actual exhibition space inside, well... that might be a bit of a problem.
Then again, maybe that's not such a bad thing after all?

Exhibition

Wandering Around the Pavilion

While checking the finishing touches of the construction, I wander around the pavilion.
During this time, I try to visualize the completed space as vividly as possible — imagining the exhibits, lighting, and sound in high detail.
That said, walking in circles around a circular space for too long starts to mess with my head… and before I know it, I’m completely disoriented, unsure of where I even am.

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