Japan World Exposition 1970 “Progress and Harmony for Mankind”

In 1970, Japan's first international exposition, the Japan World Exposition Osaka was held for 183 days. Its theme was “Progress and Harmony for Mankind,” and it fascinated visitors from all over the world.

The Sumitomo Group exhibited the Sumitomo Fairytale Pavilion under the theme of “Fountain of Beauty, Love and Hope.”

In addition, a traffic game developed by the company was unveiled as a highlight of the Automobile Pavilion. This was a rare type of exhibit at the site, where visitors could actually participate and enjoy the experience. The game involved colorful miniature cars on a grid-like track set up in a circular plaza. Although it was extremely difficult, with only a 3% success rate out of 250,000 participants, it attracted a great deal of attention. Moreover, Sumitomo Electric's power cables and steel cords also played an important role. In particular, steel cords were used for moving walkways, which led to their widespread use across the country.

In 2025, more than 50 years later, the World Expo will be held again in Osaka, Kansai (from April 13 to October 13, 2025). The theme is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” and the event is just around the corner.