China Pavilion captivates Osaka Expo with culture, cutting-edge innovation

The China Pavilion at the Osaka Expo in Japan is drawing in visitors with its bold fusion of ancient aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, standing out as a must-see highlight of the event.

Officially opened on Sunday, the pavilion covers approximately 3,500 square meters, making it one of the largest foreign self-built pavilions at the event. Divided into three sections, it highlights China's traditional ecological wisdom, modern green development initiatives, and its vision of global cooperation for a sustainable future.

At the pavilion's heart is the multimedia installation "Harmony Between Humans and Nature," a traditional Chinese artwork featuring the 24 Solar Terms. Created by celebrated artist Chang Shana, the installation integrates her lifelong research on Dunhuang grotto murals with the 24 Solar Terms, which were created thousands of years ago by the ancient Chinese to guide agricultural production.

"The patterns showcased in 'harmony between humans and nature' are all derived from my reproductions of Dunhuang murals. Dunhuang is China's treasure trove of art, with profound and rich cultural significance," said Chang.

The artwork titled "Harmony Between Humans and Nature" is presented in two distinct versions. Using advanced animation technology, iconic elements from Dunhuang murals, including flower patterns, dragons, and phoenixes, are dynamically synchronized with seasonal changes, delivering a breathtaking visual experience.

"Each version includes four standard colors, inspired by the hues and tones of traditional Chinese patterns. These colors are derived from the concept of varying shades -- light, medium, and dark -- used throughout the different dynasties in the Dunhuang Mogao Caves," said Huang Xuanzi, founder of Changshana Studio.

Another highlight is the lunar soil, collected from both the near and far sides of the moon, unveiling a fascinating glimpse into the moon's hidden wonders.

Osaka Expo 2025, a global showcase of innovation and culture, will run from April 13 to Oct 13, promising many more such extraordinary exhibits to captivate visitors.

China Pavilion captivates Osaka Expo with culture, cutting-edge innovation

People across Iran took to the streets on Friday to mark International Quds Day, an annual event expressing support for Palestinians and condemnation of Israeli actions.

Several high-ranking Iranian officials also took part in the rallies in Tehran, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Larijani, Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei as well as cabinet ministers, such as Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

The event, established by Iran in 1979, is observed on the final Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan. This year, it fell on March 13 and amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran.

In the capital, people marched from 10 different locations towards the iconic Enghelab Square in central Tehran, while waving Iran's flags and holding pictures of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei.

The marchers condemned the "crimes" committed by the United States and Israel, voiced their support for the Iranian armed forces, and pledged allegiance to the new supreme leader.

According to the official news agency IRNA, Tehran's central areas near the rally path came under U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in the early minutes of the gathering, killing at least one person. Addressing reporters after the strikes, Larijani said the attacks are "out of fear and desperation."

Araghchi said despite the attacks today, millions of people have taken part in the rallies across Iran, which shows "the Iranians' firm determination and will in supporting" the country.

On Feb 28, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and several other Iranian cities, killing Iran's then Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded by launching waves of missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and U.S. bases and assets in the Middle East.

Iran's Assembly of Experts on Sunday announced the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new supreme leader.

Iranians hold mass rallies to mark Quds Day amid U.S.-Israeli attacks