#Japan #Osaka #Award 2025 #Japanese Culture #Cool Japan

COOL JAPAN AWARD 2025: Celebrating Excellence

On August 1, 2025, the Cool Japan Council, led by Executive Director Teruhiko Ueda, announced the winners of the COOL JAPAN AWARD 2025.

Scheduled for September 3, 2025, at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, this prestigious award aims to showcase and promote Japan's outstanding products, technologies, and cultural experiences. The initiative is backed by several governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).

Selection Process

The award's selection process commenced on March 20, 2025, attracting 418 entries, which were meticulously evaluated through a three-tier examination. The first stage involved a panel from the Cool Japan Council, followed by a second review by 100 international judges, and culminating in a final selection by special judges. Ultimately, 46 projects were recognized as awardees, culminating in a blend of innovation and cultural representation.

Winners will be granted unlimited and free usage of the COOL JAPAN certification mark, empowering them to promote their offerings both domestically and internationally.

Insight into Winning Projects

The winning projects reflect a diverse range of categories divided into inbound, outbound, medical, and national park & island divisions. Here’s a quick look at a few notable entries:
1. Inbound Division (15 awards): Showcasing Japan's exquisite locales, such as the Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki and the Kaga Onsen in Ishikawa.
2. Outbound Division (26 awards): Highlighting innovative products like the WHILL Model R electric wheelchair from Tokyo and Airweave mattresses, emphasizing technology and design excellence.
3. Medical Division (1 award): Recognizing cutting-edge research in drug development by the AIM Medical Research Institute in Tokyo.
4. National Park & Islands Division (1 award): Featuring the unique Amami Fabric from Amami Oshima in Kagoshima.

Objectives of the COOL JAPAN AWARD

The COOL JAPAN AWARD program aims to enhance Japan's global image by highlighting culturally significant projects and products. The emphasis on foreign judges allows for a fresh perspective, affirming the 'coolness' of selected products from an international viewpoint.
This initiative not only assists in expanding foreign demand for Japanese goods but also invigorates the local economy.

Participants are encouraged not just to apply for their projects but also to designate nominations from peers, further fostering a community of innovation and cultural pride.

Upcoming Award Ceremony

The award ceremony is set to take place at the Osaka-Kansai Expo Festival Station. The event will not only recognize the 2025 awardees but also exhibit previous award-winning projects, serving as a platform for cultural exchange and inspiration.

For further updates, stakeholders and interested parties can visit the official COOL JAPAN website at cooljapan.info for more details on the event and submission guidelines.

Conclusion

The COOL JAPAN AWARD 2025 is not merely an accolade but a catalyst for cultural recognition and economic growth, highlighting the best of Japanese innovation to the world. As Japan continues to navigate the complexities of modernity while preserving its rich heritage, initiatives like this underscore the nation’s commitment to showcasing its unique culture on the international stage.