Understanding the Future through Expo 2025
The highly anticipated Expo 2025 will take place in Osaka, under the theme “Designing a Future Society that Shines with Life.” As the event approaches, discussions around the future it promises to unveil are heating up. Prominent figures in this discourse include Hiroaki Miyata, the theme project producer for the Expo, and Kenji Kohashi, a project producer for the event's programming. Together with Junshirou Kamiyama, the creative director of the grand attraction “One World, One Planet,” they will share their insights in an upcoming talk session titled 'Social Sign Session #04.' This session will delve into the possibilities and legacies stemming from the expo, aiming to outline the path to a brighter future.
Event Overview
Event Name: Social Sign Session #04
Theme: What Future Signs Can We See from EXPO2025?
Date: September 29, 2025
Venue: Social Issue Gallery SIGNAL and online via Zoom
The first part of the session, running from 12:30 to 13:30, will focus on the insights and legacies derived from the Expo, tying in the innovative 'Silence Forest' project, which demonstrates a harmonious coexistence with nature. This session will provide a platform to explore the significance of the Osaka-Kansai Expo and the legacies it aims to create.
Participants in Session 1 include:
- - Hiroaki Miyata: Professor at Keio University and the theme project producer for Osaka-Kansai Expo.
- - Junshirou Kamiyama: Co-CEO of SIGNING and creative director for the One World, One Planet event.
After a brief intermission, the second part will unfold from 14:00 to 15:00, addressing the potential of the Expo as a testing ground for the future society. Highlighting intriguing features like the drone show comprising 1,000 drones, this segment will analyze the impact and overarching messages presented during the Earth empathy ceremony.
Participants in Session 2 include:
- - Kenji Kohashi: CEO and creative director of The Human Miracle, also the project producer for the Osaka-Kansai Expo.
- - Junshirou Kamiyama: will again take the stage as a key figure in guiding this session.
How to Participate
Registration for the event is available via the sign-up link, with participation options for both physical attendance at the SIGNAL venue and virtual attendance through the Zoom webinar format. Note that due to limited seating, the physical event will be capped at a certain number of participants, with attendees selected through a lottery if registrations exceed available spots. Also, the session will be recorded for future online viewing.
The EXPO Report
Discussions during the event will also be based on an insightful report titled “EXPO 2025 FUTURES REPORT: What Future Signs Can We See from the Osaka-Kansai Expo?” which will be released by SIGNING on the same day. The report, developed through comprehensive research by the firm's experts, aims to deepen conversations regarding sustainable legacies and the possibilities for future societies.
Details about the report will soon be available on SIGNING's corporate website for public access.
Speakers' Profiles
Hiroaki Miyata
Born in 1978, Professor at Keio University Medical School, he specializes in data science and scientific methodology. His research is focused on societal transformation using data science, aiming to enhance reality through collaborative visions for a social future.
Kenji Kohashi
Born in 1979 in Tokyo, he initially debuted as a child actor. After taking a hiatus, he went on to produce various large-scale events including “ULTRAJAPAN.” He played a crucial role in coordinating spectacular shows like the drone display at the Tokyo Motor Show, showcasing his versatility and innovative vision.
Junshirou Kamiyama
As the Co-CEO of SIGNING, he emphasizes creative solutions to social issues through various projects. His artistic guidance in the Osaka-Kansai Expo has set the groundwork for a unique exploration of global connection.
About SIGNING
SIGNING is known for leveraging creativity to tackle societal issues, collaborating with diverse entities to design integrated approaches and innovations. Based in the Minato district of Tokyo, it aims to foster a brighter societal future:
- - Location: 1-4-28 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- - Website: SIGNING
Join us as we navigate the path illuminated by the Expo's promise and explore the future!