Myaku-Myaku, the official mascot for the highly anticipated Osaka World Expo 2025, is set to star in a series of anime shorts, bringing the character’s unique charm to screens across Japan. The series aims to build excitement and awareness for the Expo, which will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025.
Myaku-Myaku Goes Anime: What to Expect
The short anime series, titled “Hello! It’s Myaku-Myaku,” will air on NHK General TV for four consecutive nights, beginning March 3, 2025. Each night will feature two episodes broadcast between 11:45 pm and 11:49 pm. The animation style is reminiscent of a four-panel manga, offering a lighthearted and engaging way to promote the Expo’s theme: “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”
The series aims to capture the spirit of the Expo, encouraging viewers to anticipate “unknown encounters and experiences” at the event. The storyline revolves around Myaku-Myaku, a mysterious creature who came into existence 3.5 billion years ago. Seeking connection and conversation about life and the future, Myaku-Myaku journeys to the town where Otchan lives, setting the stage for heartwarming and thought-provoking adventures. The anime will feature Myaku-Myaku as the main character, along with Otchan and Naoya.
Who is Myaku-Myaku? The Mascot Explained
Myaku-Myaku, officially stylized in all caps as MYAKU-MYAKU, is more than just a mascot; it’s a symbol of innovation, unity, and the pulse of a sustainable future. The character’s design, created by picture book illustrator Kouhei Yamashita, was selected from nearly 2,000 public submissions. Yamashita also oversees Myaku-Myaku’s identity, including how it walks, talks and reacts.
Design and Symbolism
Myaku-Myaku is described as a “mysterious creature” born from the unification of cells and water. The mascot’s red parts represent cells that divide and multiply, while the blue areas signify pure water that can flow and change shape. Myaku-Myaku’s fluid form and ability to transform embody the Expo’s themes of unity and transformation. The mascot typically appears upright, in a bipedal position, imitating that of human beings. It has a blue torso with two legs, two arms, and a red globular ring as a “head” with multiple eyeballs and a smiling mouth in the middle.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name “Myaku-Myaku” comes from a Japanese onomatopoeia that means “steadily pulsing.” This reflects the continuity of life, wisdom, and innovation, which are central values to the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai theme. The name also represents the hope that human DNA, knowledge, and history can be passed down continuously from generation to generation.
Personality and Backstory
Myaku-Myaku has a friendly but sometimes clumsy personality. According to the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition website, Myaku-Myaku has the ability to transform into various shapes and is known for finding a rainbow after the rain. The mascot enjoys interacting with all manner of things, living and inanimate. Myaku-Myaku’s birthplace is said to be a small spring somewhere in the Kansai region. The mascot’s energy source is going outside to bask in sunlight and interacting with nature and people. It also loves rainy days and can absorb rain into its body.
The Osaka World Expo 2025: A Global Gathering
The World Expo 2025 in Osaka is projected to host approximately 28 million visitors. The Expo will take place on Yumeshima Island in Osaka.
Theme and Objectives
The Expo’s central theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” will be explored through various exhibits and pavilions. These will tackle pressing global challenges, including sustainable food production, transportation, and climate change. The Expo aims to connect lives, empower people, and design a society that thrives on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Myaku-Myaku’s Role in the Expo
Myaku-Myaku plays a crucial role in communicating the Expo’s themes to the world. The mascot’s design, rooted in the history and culture of the Kansai region, reminds us of the wisdom passed down through generations, while its futuristic form inspires hope for the future. As a global ambassador, Myaku-Myaku inspires excitement and curiosity, uniting the world around the event’s vision of designing a better society.
Global Outreach
Myaku-Myaku has been actively promoting the Expo at events across Japan and internationally, including appearances in Australia and Vietnam. These visits reflect the Expo’s goal of engaging the international community and inviting people from all walks of life to participate in this global event.
Myaku-Myaku Merchandise
The Japan Association for Expo 2025 has been rolling out merchandise featuring Myaku-Myaku, with items ranging from plush toys to keychains. Official licensed goods are selling well, with numerous companies having entered into official licensing agreements and a wide variety of products available. Along with an online shop, several permanent stores can be found in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Popular items among international visitors include Myaku-Myaku plush toys, key chains, and stickers.
Mascots From Around the World
Myaku-Myaku will be joined by mascots from other countries participating in Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai, each reflecting the character and aspirations of their home country. These mascots include:
- Tumtum (Indonesia): Representing the theme of Indonesia’s pavilion – “Thriving in Harmony: Nature, Culture, Future.”
- René (Czechia): A playful homage to legendary Czech glass artist René Roubíček.
- Italia-chan (Italy): A spirited embodiment of Italy’s artistic heritage.
- Spark (USA)
- Belu Belu (Belgium)
- Miska (Hungary)
- Leeloo (Monaco)
- Merli (Singapore)
- Ruby (Australia)
These mascots promise to enrich the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai experience, expressing diverse cultural messages and the universal themes of connection, resilience, and innovation.
