Japan Pavilion, Expo 2025
The Japan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, is centered on the theme “Between Lives”, exploring the the concept of junkan (circulation of life) through a life relay where waste becomes the foundation for future generations. The pavilion’s entire communication framework, spanning visual identity, signage systems, digital platforms, and film, was designed by Nippon Design Center in collaboration with nendo.
The visual system is conceived as a form of life itself – a breathing, growing organism that evolves across all media. To communicate this complex concept to a global audience, the design team utilized Code Next by Fontfabric as the primary English typeface.
Code Next was selected for its clean, geometric forms that harmonize with the pavilion’s floating typography layouts and minimalist architecture. By integrating the typeface into spatial feeling experiences and unassuming video content, Nippon Design Center ensured a cohesive visual unity. The font’s modern, simplified structure mirrors the pavilion’s focus on small cycles and transformation, providing high legibility while maintaining the visceral, organic atmosphere of the exhibition.
The bold serif used alongside Code Next is Mastadoni. The typeface used for Japanese text is Hiragino Kaku Gothic.
