The upcoming Osaka Expo has sparked considerable debate as local interest appears to wane despite initial support. With ticket sales sluggish and many residents expressing skepticism, the event seems to be losing its appeal ahead of its grand opening on July 13. Journalist Izumi, a resident of Osaka, shared insights on the current sentiment surrounding the Expo, revealing that locals are not as enthusiastic as anticipated.

While a survey conducted shortly after the Expo’s announcement showed approximately 60% of respondents supported the event, the actual ticket sales tell a different story. The target is to sell 23 million tickets, with 18.4 million needed to cover operational costs. However, only around 800,000 tickets have been sold to the general public, with most purchased by corporations for employee benefits.

One major hurdle is the steep ticket price, reportedly around 7,000 yen, which many locals find excessive. This has led to a surge in attendance at free events, where many residents are opting for cost-effective experiences rather than purchasing entry to the Expo. The complicated ticketing process has also deterred potential attendees, with many struggling to navigate the online system.

The Expo’s theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” aims to present groundbreaking ideas and innovations, yet the lack of clear, engaging content about the pavilions has left many unsure of what to expect. As the event approaches, the pressure is mounting for organizers to not only boost ticket sales but also create a compelling experience that can rival other attractions, such as Universal Studios Japan.

With less than a month to go, there is growing concern that unless ticket sales improve significantly, the financial burden will fall on the taxpayers, leading to further dissatisfaction among Osaka residents. The Expo’s success now hinges on its ability to generate excitement and draw in crowds, as the countdown to its opening continues.