Exciting Experiences Await at Okayama University's 2025 Chemistry Exhibition

Enthralling Chemistry at the 2025 Okayama Exhibition

In August 2025, Okayama University, located in the heart of Okayama City, showcased an exhilarating educational event titled "The Exciting and Wondrous World of Chemistry - 2025 Okayama Chemistry Exhibition". Hosted at Okayama Takashimaya from August 8 to August 10, the exhibition attracted an impressive 2,086 visitors during its three-day run, marking it as a noteworthy event in the local education scene.

The exhibition offered attendees an engaging platform to explore the exciting realm of chemistry through a variety of experimental activities. With 14 booths set up by both local universities and businesses, families and children flocked to the event to learn about chemistry in a fun and hands-on way. The event was proudly organized by the Chemical Society of Japan's Chugoku-Shikoku Branch and supported by 12 groups including the Okayama Prefectural Board of Education, Okayama City Board of Education, and the participating institutions.

One of the remarkable aspects of this year's exhibition was its timing during the summer vacation, which boosted attendance numbers. Especially on the final day of the exhibition, the venue witnessed a flurry of activity, leading to the implementation of crowd control measures shortly after opening, causing long lines as excited visitors eagerly awaited entry. Young attendees could be seen collecting stamps from all 14 booths and engaging in myriad fascinating experiments, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Among the attractions provided by the Faculty of Science were themed activities such as "Discovering Invisible Particles: Let's Create Molecular Models!", "Experiments with Mysterious Powder that Absorbs Water", "The Mystique of Solidifying Water: A Dilation Experience", and "Let's Make Soap Bubbles Burst in Your Palm!" The Faculty of Engineering offered themes including "Colorful Ikura: Let's Make Some Magic!", "Science in the Bath: Let's Make Bath Powders!", and "Creating a Sparkling Mini-Stained Glass with Cellophane Tape!" The General Technical Division showcased a creative project entitled "Magic of Spreading Colors! Creating Bookmarks with Chromatography Art!"

Professor Takahiro Okubo, from the School of Environmental Life and Natural Sciences at Okayama University, shared his thoughts on the event saying, "Chemistry is a subject that is intricately linked to our daily lives; however, many children develop a dislike for it during school. Seeing kids focused on experiments and hearing their delightful exclamations of surprise was incredibly rewarding. I hope this event sparks interest in chemistry for more children!"

The Vice President and Chief Officer for Industry-Academia Collaboration, Masayoshi Sato, also expressed his gratitude: "I would like to thank everyone involved, especially Professor Okubo. I believe we managed to convey the thrill and intrigue of chemistry not just from the General Technical Division but collectively from the entire university. Moving forward, we will continue to share the fascinating aspects of chemistry as a research university."

As the event came to a close, the atmosphere remained vibrant, and it emphasized Okayama University’s commitment to its role as a key educational institution within the region. The enthusiasm displayed by both young minds and adults alike demonstrates a shared excitement for learning, paving the way for future educational initiatives.

Okayama University encourages continuous engagement and innovation in science education and firmly believes that experiences like the Okayama Chemistry Exhibition play a vital role in shaping students' future interests in scientific fields. The event marks another chapter in Okayama University's ongoing efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.

For more information about Okayama University's initiatives and educational offerings, visit their official website: Okayama University.