![[Expo Song Collection] Historical songs related to World Expos. The 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo too!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/_gQ4KIo0iHs/maxresdefault.webp)
[Expo Song Collection] Historical songs related to World Expos. The 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo too!
As a world expo where people, technologies, and innovations gather from around the globe, the World’s Fair serves as a catalyst for advancing groundbreaking technology and as a venue for cross-border exchange.
Commonly called the “Expo,” Japan will soon host the Osaka-Kansai Expo in 2025 for the first time in a while!
As this nationwide mega-event approaches, interest continues to grow—and you might also be wondering about the music that will help build excitement.
In this article, we’ll highlight songs related to the Expo!
From official theme songs and image songs to support tracks, there are plenty to explore—so be sure to check them out.
[Expo Song Collection] Historical songs related to world’s fairs. The 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo too! (1–10)
Hello from countries around the worldMinami Haruo
A song that welcomes people around the world with a bright, refreshing vocal.
It served as the theme song that energized the 1970 Osaka Expo and became a major hit through Haruo Minami’s performance.
The lyrics, which pray for friendship and peace among all nations, reflect the era’s context and the anticipation for international exchange.
Originally released in March 1967 as a competitive multi-artist project, Minami’s version sold 1.4 million copies, becoming a blockbuster.
The song was widely loved, being used at the Expo venue and as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It’s a highly recommended track when you need a boost of energy or want to feel connected with people around the world.
The continuation of this EarthKobukuro
A hopeful song by Kobukuro that, from the very first lines, whisks you into a vision of the future.
Released in 2022 as the official theme song for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, its lyrics celebrate the Earth and the preciousness of life, while its bright, forward-looking melody resonates deeply.
It carries a sense of anticipation for a future shaped by children, and it’s a track that lifts your spirits every time you listen.
Combining the grandeur that seems to symbolize the Expo’s vision with a warmth that fits everyday life, this song is perfect for times when you’re tired or want to look ahead.
Give it a listen—you’re sure to feel brighter!
That’s true.SAKA-O-BAND
It’s a theme song packed with the charm of Osaka! Released by SAKA-O-BAND in 1990, it’s known as the official song of the Osaka International Flower and Greenery Expo.
With star artists like Masaki Ueda and Michiru Sasano coming together, it’s also called the “Osaka version of WE ARE THE WORLD.” Set to a bright, pop melody, the song celebrates the warmth of Osaka’s people and the city’s lively energy.
The friendly lyrics featuring the dialect word “honma” (meaning “truly” or “really”) are especially memorable and resonate with listeners.
It was used at Expo events and in local campaigns, and has been loved by the people of Osaka.
A perfect track to play when visiting Osaka or whenever you need a boost.
The sky of this townET-KING
This is a support song packed with love for Osaka and hope for the future.
Released digitally by ET-KING in July 2018, it was created to help promote Osaka’s bid for the 2025 World Expo.
With its powerful rhythm and passionate vocals, the song conveys gratitude to the city of Osaka and its people.
The chorus delivers a message about the importance of facing forward and living without being defeated by hardship.
It’s a track brimming with hometown pride that only ET-KING, who hail from the Kansai region, could express.
It’s recommended not only for those who love Osaka, but also for anyone looking to take a new step forward.
I’ll Be Your LoveDAHLIA
This is the official image song of the 2005 Aichi Expo, distinguished by its grand orchestration and dramatic melody.
Written and composed by YOSHIKI and powerfully sung by Hawaiian-born diva Dahlia, its lyrics—filled with love, hope, and a strong resolve for the future—give listeners the courage to overcome hardship.
The majestic sound, fusing classical and pop, will surely resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in October 2003, it was performed in splendid fashion at the Expo venue.
It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to face forward and keep moving, or when you wish to renew your feelings for someone important.
Hymn to LifeMuramatsu Takatsugu
The original piece—whose majestic orchestral sonorities and crystal-clear boy-choir harmonies stir the soul—has been self-covered on piano by the composer himself.
Created by Takatsugu Muramatsu, a composer renowned for numerous film scores, it’s a truly grand number worthy of being called a “hymn to life.” Produced as the main theme for Mitsubishi Mirai-kan’s “JOURNEY TO LIFE” at EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, it reportedly brought together over 100 performers.
The beautiful melodies born from the collaboration with the UK boy-soprano unit LIBERA are so captivating that even rendered on solo piano, they’ll make you pause your work to listen.
Why not give it a try when you’re a little tired from studying or working, and want to quietly restore vitality to your heart?
Flower & Green (Hanano Wa Ondo)Ishikawa Sayuri
A song of hope adorned with flowers and greenery.
Sayuri Ishikawa’s vocals resound with a bright, sprightly rhythm.
The lyrics, woven with positive themes like the beauty of flowers, love, and dreams, warmly embrace the listener’s heart.
Released in November 1988, this piece became widely beloved as the theme song for the International Garden and Greenery Exposition.
Its ondo-style melody brings a festival-like liveliness, offering a fun, body-moving energy.
It’s a perfect track not only for those who love flowers and nature, but also for anyone looking for a boost of cheer.