As a space between lives, the pavilion developed by Oki Sato with Nikken Sekkei, invites visitors, through a circular journey, to explore their relationship with nature and the flourishing aesthetic sensibility in the country, fundamental to its development. It also highlights the countless possibilities of a fulfilling life, encouraging reflection on its meaning and value.
Conceived as a warm, inspiring, circular space, and constructed primarily of wood, the pavilion symbolizes continuous change, constant transformation, and the human connection with nature and its cycles, while also hosting various exhibitions, audiovisual content, and storytelling.
Japan Pavilion, Expo 2025 by Nendo. Photograph courtesy of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
Project description by Oki Sato
It’s not just about us, but when an animal, plant, or a thing nears to the end of its role, part of it is carried on, transforming and taking on a new role. We all live through these connections.
When looking at this space between lives, people will notice that the world is made up of countless, tiny cyclical loops.
A full life may be one in which all life is respected with its meaning and value understood, and it might be lived as part of the entire cycle between lives. The relationship to nature and aesthetic sensibility that have flourished in this country are key to achieving this richness in life.
The pavilion allows visitors to experience such a “singular cycle” with no beginning nor end.
