The Czech participation in EXPO 2025 has reached a major milestone: the national pavilion received its occupancy permit on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in the evening (CET time). The Japanese approval process includes both a review of documentation and a physical inspection of the building. The inspection itself lasted three days, and it took approximately two weeks to issue the final approval. Currently, preparations are underway for the permanent exhibition, along with the installation of sound and lighting systems and final touch-ups. EXPO 2025 opens its doors in just ten days, on April 13, 2025, and will run until October 13, 2025. It will take place in Osaka, Japan, on the artificial island of Yumeshima.
"Receiving the final approval for the Czech pavilion is a huge milestone for me personally and for the entire team. It means we are officially ready—an ambitious project that many doubted could be completed just a year ago is now fully finished and ready to come to life. What we spent two years planning on paper is now standing, breathing, and prepared to welcome visitors from all over the world," said Ondřej Soška, the Czech Commissioner General. He added, "I believe this is a moment of pride for Czechia. We have proven that we can design and execute an exceptionally demanding project that will once again impress the world. At the same time, we have demonstrated that we are reliable partners capable of building with quality, modernity, and on schedule—even in Japan, a country known for its rigorous standards. This is proof that Czechia has much to offer on the international stage."
The approval process in Japan is highly systematic and technically thorough. It includes verifying compliance with project documentation, construction regulations, safety, and fire codes. Inspections are carried out by firefighters and an authorized inspector, in this case, the Building Center of Japan. For national pavilions, additional inspections are conducted by representatives from the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, which is organizing the event. The process involves both a review of documents and a physical examination of the building. The duration varies depending on the complexity of the project. In the case of the Czech National Pavilion, the physical inspection lasted three days, and only a few minor comments were issued, none of which hindered final approval. This success is attributed to the excellent preparation and coordination between the Czech and Japanese teams.
Currently, work is being finalized on the permanent exhibition, along with the installation of special features such as audio and dynamic lighting systems. Czechia is among the first half of participating countries to have their pavilions officially approved. Additionally, on Monday, the final inspection of the kitchen was successfully completed, meaning the restaurant is now ready to open. The restaurant is operated by Gastro Invest Internacional, with its local partner being the Japanese company Amadeus.
About the Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025 In December 2022, after more than twenty years, the Office of the General Commissioner announced an open, anonymous architectural competition for the design of the Czech National Pavilion at EXPO 2025. A total of 38 teams submitted proposals, and in March 2023, a professional jury led by world-renowned architect Eva Jiřičná selected the winning design: a glass spiral created by Apropos Architects. The structure is made of modern wooden panels, while the façade features artistic glass—a material with a centuries-old tradition in Czechia.
The National Pavilion will serve as a distinguished space for Czechia's presence at EXPO 2025, taking place from April to October 2025 on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay. Inside the pavilion, visitors will find a permanent exhibition, a multifunctional auditorium, business meeting facilities, a restaurant, and a CTP Lounge. Outside, a relaxation area with a sea view will be available to visitors.
Czech Participation at EXPO 2025 Czechia is participating in the World Expo as an independent state for the sixth time. Since September 2022, Ondřej Soška has served as the General Commissioner, having won the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ selection process with his concept and theme, "Talent and Creativity for Life." In Osaka, Czechia aims to showcase not only the things that Japanese visitors already know and admire—such as Czech glass and classical music—but also its innovations, nanotechnology, promising startups, and talented individuals from various regions.
