"#PakuPakuExpo" Surprises the World with Japanese Passion for Food—Some Restaurants Have 8-Hour Waits

1. What is "#PakuPaku Expo"?

A series of projects by the official account of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, introducing international cuisines available at the venue. On Instagram, traditional Maltese pasta and Kuwaiti fried dishes, among others, are presented in card format with actual menu offerings and location information, encouraging visitors to make "pre-ordered purchases" before attending.

2. Why did an 8-hour wait at a restaurant occur?

During the event, reports emerged of people waiting up to 8 hours at popular restaurants, sparking major discussions. A social media post by Sankei News, highlighting the long wait times, was cited as a symbol of this phenomenon, drawing surprised reactions from international users. The background includes the following factors:X (formerly Twitter)

• The large scale of attendance: As of late July, the cumulative number of visitors exceeded 13.66 million (official announcement). On peak days, the number reached around 170,000 people per day.Expo 2025

• The "exclusivity" of food: Signature menus at each country's pavilion are often limited to the event period, concentrating demand due to social media exposure.

• Traffic flow and weather: The vast venue and extreme heat reduce the efficiency of circulation, causing demand to peak during meal times (the official "This Week at the Expo" provides updates on operating hours and congestion trends).Expo 2025

3. From Philosophy to Experience in Expo Food──EARTH MART

The signature pavilion "EARTH MART," created by scriptwriter Kundo Koyama, is themed around "thinking about life through food." In a supermarket-like space, it visualizes the ecological cost of our choices and allows visitors to explore future food technologies and ideas (such as recycled rice). It expands the act of "buying and eating" food into an experience of "thinking and choosing," serving as an intellectual attraction.Expo 2025+1

4. Are Prices "High" or "Reasonable"?──Points of Debate

The prices of venue food reflect costs such as raw materials, logistics, hygiene standards, and temporary operation, leading to voices online labeling them as "expensive." For instance, the topic of "Eki Soba at 3,850 yen" has made news. On the other hand, considering the short operational period and the quality and labor costs of an international event, some see a certain premium as unavoidable. Evaluation should fairly consider not just "quantity and cost" but also "the unique experience value," "cultural authenticity," and "benefits from social media exposure."ITmedia

5. "Japan's Food Enthusiasm" Seen from Abroad

Japan has a strong culture of "eating even if it means waiting," with long lines being common at nationwide product exhibitions and limited-time collaborations. The international spread of Sankei's post was due to the surprise at Japan's consumer style, where "even waiting in line is part of the experience." Searching social media hashtags (#PakuPakuExpo, #ExpoGourmet) reveals a mix of surprise, admiration, and bewilderment from overseas.X (formerly Twitter)

6. Practical Guide: Eating Without Waiting, Eating Smart (Useful Information for Overseas Visitors in Japanese)

(1) Time Strategy

• Have the first meal early in the morning (around 9:00) and avoid the lunch rush (around 12:00). Utilizing evening tickets to visit after the crowd thins in the evening is also effective (the venue is generally open from 9:00 to 22:00).Expo 2025

• Check the official "This Week at the Expo," venue live cameras, and congestion forecasts in advance.Expo 2025

(2) Reservation Availability

• Pavilion entry and some events require advance reservations or lotteries (same-day slots may be available). Meals are generally first-come, first-served, but some dining facilities within the venue offer time slot reservations or tickets (e.g., time-specified buffets at venue lounges and dining). Check the latest information with official and store guides as needed.Expo 2025〖Official〗Lounge & Dining | EXPO2025: Osaka-Kansai Expo

(3) Cashless is Essential

• Food and vending machines within the venue are generally "cashless only." Various prepaid cards and transportation IC cards are accepted. Those who prefer cash should prepare to use charging machines.Cabinet Office

(4) Religion, Vegetarian, Allergy

• There are differences in labeling and accommodation for halal, vegetarian, vegan, nuts, etc., depending on the store or pavilion. Download the official "Gourmet Guidebook" and prepare multiple options in advance for peace of mind.Expo 2025

(5) Heat and Hydration

• There are numerous free water supply spots and personal bottle washing machines. Bringing your own drinks is also allowed. Ensure frequent hydration and utilize shade and indoor spaces.Expo 2025Cabinet Office

(6) Mini Tips for Foreigners (in Japanese)

• Electronic money and QR payments are mainstream.Many stores do not accept cash.

• Meals areoften served in portions as shown in photos, and sharing is common.

• In line queues,cutting in line is prohibited. "Holding a spot" with just luggage can lead to trouble.

• Night views and drone and fountain shows are must-sees. It's relatively easier to eat at night.Rakuten Travel

7. "#PakuPaku Expo" Pre-Order List (Examples)

• Malta: Rabbit Stew Spaghetti (Malta Pavilion)

• Kuwait: Kube Elg/Chicken Machboos (Kuwait Pavilion)

• Luxembourg: Roast Beef Brioche Sandwich (Luxembourg Pavilion)

8. Model Route (Avoiding Lunch Peak, 6-7 Hours)

1. 9:00 Entry→Light Breakfast (Takeout)

2. Experience "Future Food" at EARTH MART (Exhibit Focus, 30-60 Minutes)Expo 2025

3. Early Lunch at 11:00 (Utilize Reservations if Available)〖Official〗Lounge & Dining | EXPO2025: Osaka-Kansai Expo

4. 13:00-16:00 Avoid Heat withIndoor Exhibits + Hydration (Utilize Water Spots)Expo 2025

5. After 16:00, Enjoy Relatively Smooth Food Strolling in theEvening Ticket Area Wave.Rakuten Travel

9. The Potential of "Food" Seen Through Data

• With approximately 1 million visitors per week, the cumulative total reached 13 million in the middle of the event. The "food" scene remains enormous.Expo 2025

• The official releases