Heading to the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025? Be sure to stop by the Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Store branch, which will be located right at the East Gate of the Expo site. Officially opening on April 13th, this special store brings together traditional Japanese design, Kansai charm, and sustainable values—all under one roof. It’s open throughout the six-month Expo period.
The store’s concept takes inspiration from the Genroku period, a vibrant era of art and culture. At the entrance, a huge noren curtain made from eco-friendly washi thread sets the tone, blurring the line between inside and outside in a uniquely Japanese way. Inside, visitors are greeted by colorful nebuta decorations of the wind and thunder gods, adding energy and a sense of drama to the space.
Beyond its eye-catching design, the store features around 200 exclusive items developed just for the Expo. Shoppers can find everything from handcrafted sweets and cute stuffed toys to stylish apparel and traditional Japanese crafts. Look out for highlights like the Myakumyaku-themed candy mix by PAPABUBBLE, vibrant petit bags by BUNZABURO, and striking 3D Hokusai art featuring the Expo’s mascot.
The store also places a strong focus on sustainability—not only in its use of eco-friendly materials, but in how it plans to reduce waste after the Expo ends. Decorations like the nebuta and noren are designed with reuse and recycling in mind, and many of the original products are produced in limited quantities to avoid excess.
