SPORTS of HEART 2025: A Celebration of Diversity in Osaka
From September 26 to 28, 2025, Osaka will host the highly anticipated
SPORTS of HEART event at the
EXPO Arena 'Matsuri', as part of the Japan World Expo. This initiative aims to celebrate diversity through sports, fashion, music, art, and food, promoting inclusivity and understanding beyond the barriers that may divide us.
Origins of SPORTS of HEART
Founded in 2012 in Tokyo's Shibuya district by
Jun Hiramichi, SPORTS of HEART was created with the mission to foster a diverse society that transcends the boundaries between the able-bodied and those with disabilities. Since then, the organization has consistently presented events spotlighting sports, music, fashion, and art as vehicles for diversity. In 2017, they expanded their outreach to Oita Prefecture, and more recently to
Ginza, Tokyo, and
Ube City in Yamaguchi Prefecture.
The Osaka event will serve as a culmination of these efforts, further embodying the spirit of inclusivity.
Exciting Programs and Lineups
Throughout the three-day festival, attendees can expect an array of engaging performances and activities designed to appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. Noteworthy highlights include:
- - An opening ceremony on September 27 at 12:30 PM featuring athletes like Jun Hiramichi, a medalist from the Sydney and Athens Paralympics, and Naoko Takahashi, the gold medalist from the Sydney Olympic women's marathon.
- - Musical performances by Hirari Sato, guitarist Hiroaki Tagawa, violinist Yusuke Anazawa, and Tsugaru shamisen artist Daichi Hikida, among others.
- - A Diversity Fashion Show on September 27, showcasing models and athletes from various backgrounds, including Atsushi Yamamoto and Chouku Aoyama, promoting unity amongst diverse participants.
Sports Experience Programs
In addition to compelling performances, visitors will have the opportunity to engage in numerous sports activities. The event will feature:
- - Paralympic sports like wheelchair racing, tennis, and basketball.
- - Traditional sports including 3x3 basketball and powerlifting.
- - Exciting e-sports and drone soccer, ensuring enjoyable experiences for participants of all ages.
Culinary Delights
Moreover, the culinary aspect of the event promises to be equally exciting. Attendees can indulge in a variety of exceptional dishes from various food trucks and stalls, including:
- - Delectable roast beef and drinks at the MUSIC LOUNGE.
- - Sushi trucks from Oita, alongside a spread of global cuisines such as curry, yakisoba, kebabs, and donuts.
This fusion of food and culture mirrors the event's core theme of diversity, allowing attendees to experience and appreciate different cultures through delicious cuisine.
Conclusion
The
SPORTS of HEART 2025 in Osaka promises to be a vibrant tapestry of activities, celebrating the importance of diversity and inclusion in our society. With an impressive lineup of performances, sports activities, and culinary experiences, this event is a must-attend for everyone eager to witness the beautiful synergy of sports, art, and culture.
Join us for this monumental occasion at the EXPO Arena 'Matsuri' from September 26-28, and immerse yourself in a festival that champions diversity and community spirit!
For more information, feel free to contact the
General Incorporated Association of Sports of Heart: