Connecting Young Innovators at Pre Expo Sake Bar in Yokohama

Pre Expo Sake Bar in Yokohama

In an effort to foster a sustainable society, the Yokohama Future Creation Council is spearheading activities leading to the 2027 International Horticultural Expo, known as GREEN×EXPO 2027. A youthful initiative, tentatively named the Young Executives Committee, aims to channel the excitement generated by the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo into a vibrant gathering place where individuals inclined towards creativity and collaboration can connect.

The Essence of Pre Expo Sake Bar

The concept of the 'Expo Sake Bar' originated from a desire to enrich the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. Over 118 gatherings have already taken place across 22 prefectures in Japan, attracting more than 9,600 participants and leading to numerous innovative projects. This initiative serves as a platform for sharing ideas and experiences while ensuring that the unifying spirit of expos persists even after the events conclude.

On October 31, 2025, the inaugural Pre Expo Sake Bar was held in Yokohama to connect the passionate energy of the Osaka expo with the forthcoming GREEN×EXPO 2027. This gathering was not just a social event, but also a brainstorming session for future collaborations. The committee collaborated with various leaders who have actively participated in the Osaka Expo, setting the stage for inspiring dialogue and network-building.

Event Highlights

Date & Time: October 31, 2025 (Friday) from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Location: Vlag Yokohama, 42nd floor of THE YOKOHAMA FRONT
Organized by: Young Executives Committee, Yokohama Future Creation Council
Collaborators: demoexpo, Vlag Yokohama

The event featured notable guests, including Eri Okamoto from demoexpo, Hiroshi Sakuma, and Seina Iwasaki, both of whom have made significant contributions to the Osaka Expo. Their discussions revolved around how to sustain and transfer the energy of expos to future events like GREEN×EXPO 2027. The atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm, enabling attendees to forge important connections and explore potential partnerships for future projects.

Insights from the Speakers

Eri Okamoto, Director of demoexpo

"The Expo Sake Bar began as a small gathering but has evolved into a nationwide movement. I am thrilled to see so many motivated individuals stepping forward not just to participate but to take leadership roles. Let's continue building excitement for GREEN×EXPO 2027 together."

Hiroshi Sakuma, Global Shapers Osaka Hub

"Creating dialogues is essential. It is vital for young people to voice their visions for the future they aspire to live in. Let’s cultivate that initiative and make it happen from here!"

Seina Iwasaki, President of the Japan Young People's Career Support Association

"Many young individuals wish to collaborate on ideas and contribute to the expo. They often regret not getting involved sooner, realizing the event is not merely a momentary occurrence. The 500 days leading up to the expo are just as significant. Take this chance to engage right from the start! Let’s make the most of it together."

Looking Ahead

The kickoff of Pre Expo Sake Bar in Yokohama will lead to its official establishment as a regular meeting venue for creativity and collaboration leading up to GREEN×EXPO 2027. The next meeting, set for November 26, 2025, will focus on gathering ideas to make the expo personal and relevant, titled "From Gathering Friends to Make the Expo Our Own: Idea Meeting." Anyone eager to share their visions and enthusiastic ideas is encouraged to join.

More details can be found at Green Expo 2027.

About the Yokohama Future Creation Council

The Yokohama Future Creation Council was established to help current university students and young professionals in the region create a sustainable and environmentally-friendly society leading up to GREEN×EXPO 2027. By collaborating with a variety of stakeholders in Yokohama, this initiative aims to empower the next generation with innovative ideas and actions, fostering an environment conducive to transformation toward a sustainable future.

For more information, visit Yokohama Future Creation Council.