The city of Hirakata, in Osaka Prefecture, has officially received a symbolic donation from the Portugal Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, extending Portugal's presence and legacy in Japan long after the event's closure.
A gesture marking the continuity of Expo 2025
The handover ceremony took place on 16 October 2025. It was attended by Bernardo Amaral, Director of the Portugal Pavilion, who presented the city with ten original ropes used on the pavilion’s façade — one of the most distinctive features of the building designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Crafted from sustainable materials and inspired by Portugal’s rich maritime heritage, these ropes embody the country’s historic connection to the ocean and express the pavilion’s central theme: “Ocean, The Blue Dialogue.”
The Mayor of Hirakata, Takashi Fushimi, accepted the donation on behalf of the municipality, highlighting the symbolic connection created between Portugal and the local community.
“A piece of Portugal that remains in Japan”
During the ceremony, Bernardo Amaral reflected on the significance of the moment:
“Although the Expo has ended — and there is always a certain feeling of absence — it brings us immense joy to know that part of the Portugal Pavilion will remain in Hirakata. May this symbol serve as a lasting reminder of the extraordinary months we experienced, and of the bond forged between Hirakata and Portugal.”
Public exhibition
The ropes will be displayed in several public venues across Hirakata, allowing residents and visitors to reconnect with the spirit of the Expo. The first exhibition dates include:
19 November – 21 December 2025 Hirakata City Learning & Lifelong Learning Exchange Centre (Station Hill Hirakata, 5th floor)
24 December 2025 – 4 January 2026 Hirakata Viorne (1st floor, event space)
Additional locations may be announced later by the municipality.
Hirakata: A partner in preserving the Expo Legacy
Hirakata was a natural choice for hosting elements of the Portugal Pavilion. As one of the partner cities of Expo 2025 Osaka, the municipality distinguished itself through its cultural dynamism and commitment to fostering continuity beyond the event itself. With a strong network of public learning facilities and proximity to the Expo site, Hirakata offers ideal conditions for preserving and showcasing artefacts from international pavilions.
Integrated into the official “Expo Legacy” programme
The donation is part of the formal Expo Legacy Programme, established by the organisers of Expo 2025 Osaka to preserve significant elements from the pavilions and ensure that the values of the event remain rooted in the Kansai region.
This programme promotes long-term relationships between host municipalities and participating countries, encouraging cultural exchange and institutional cooperation.
A lasting Portuguese presence in Japan
Throughout the six months of Expo 2025 Osaka, the Portugal Pavilion welcomed more than 2.3 million visitors, becoming one of the most recognisable spaces in the Empowering Lives area. The donation to Hirakata reinforces Portugal’s commitment to a meaningful legacy, ensuring that part of the pavilion — and its message — continues to resonate in Japan.
AICEP will continue to support these initiatives, fostering new opportunities for collaboration and strengthening the ties between Portugal and local communities across Japan.
