The emblem of Expo 2025 Osaka, the Grand Ring is the world’s largest wooden structure and a symbol of the enduring relevance of Japanese traditions of building with natural materials.
Every five years, a different city hosts the Expo. Paris 1900 is often cited as one of the most decisive in the history of Parisian architecture, leaving behind the Grand Palais, the Palais de Tokyo and an indelible Art Deco legacy in the capital. After Dubai in 2021 (postponed by a year due to the pandemic in 2020), Osaka was chosen to host this international cultural event in 2025. To house the pavilions of the many countries exhibiting there until October, Japan has worked hard. The focal point of its Expo district is the Grand Ring, a gigantic 61-square-kilometre structure that is set to make history at Expo 2025 Osaka.
Night view of the building on Yumeshima Island.
Iwan BaanA ring for international unity
Meaning “great ring”, the circular building was erected on the artificial island of Yumeshima, in Osaka Bay, in the center of the Japanese archipelago. Made entirely of wood – 70% Japanese (pine, cedar and cypress) – it was built using the traditional Nuki assembly method, a type of joinery used in local temples and shrines. Its shape was chosen to offer visitors optimal circulation among the 150 pavilions on display, while remaining sheltered from wind, rain and sun. In more symbolic terms, the structure “embodies the concept of ‘Unity in Diversity'”, said Expo 2025 Osaka organizers. “The exhibits bring all the wonder of each different country and then stay there for six months,” architect Sou Fujimoto told Dezeen. And this format, I think, is very valuable, especially in these times of global crisis”.
AloJapan.com