At Expo 2025 Osaka, the Indonesia Pavilion is more than just a participant, it is a living space that touches hearts. Countless stories unfold amidst the long queues, the rhythms of music, and the laughter of visitors. Yet behind the bustling crowds, there are gentler stories that come from the heart.

Two of these stories come from Japan. Two people, two very different experiences, yet both connected by one thing, a genuine love for the Indonesia Pavilion.

Tatsuji Otani: A Friend from Japan

For Tatsuji Otani (@tatsujiohtani), the Indonesia Pavilion isn’t just an exhibition space. It’s a second home. At 71, his enthusiasm remains unmatched. He has visited Expo multiple times, talked with the staff, soaked in the atmosphere, and brought home more than just memories.

In his letter, Tatsuji wrote:

"Letter of Appreciation
I, Tatsuji Otani, would like to sincerely thank all the staff at the Indonesia Pavilion. Currently, reservations to enter the Osaka Kansai Expo aren’t available, so unfortunately, today may be my last visit to the Expo. It has been a great joy and happiness to be at the Indonesia Pavilion during this period, and I am truly grateful for the short time I spent there. I will continue to share my love for Indonesia and hope to visit the Republic of Indonesia one day. I wish all the staff at the Indonesia Pavilion good health and continued energy. Thank you so much."

For the Indonesia Pavilion team, Tatsuji isn’t just a visitor. He is a friend and a living witness to how culture and kindness can bridge nations. Through his words, you can truly feel a warmth and sincerity that transcends language and distance.

Ayuko: A Letter from the Heart, Full of Courage

Another story comes from Ayuko (@yarn_yucco), a Japanese woman who had long looked forward to visiting the Indonesia Pavilion with her mother. Growing up hearing stories about Expo 1970 in Osaka, she was overjoyed when Expo 2025 was announced.

But the journey wasn’t easy. Ayuko experiences panic attacks, making crowded places challenging. She came to the Expo area with a letter and a small gift for the Indonesia Pavilion staff, but upon seeing the long queues and the bustling crowd, she ultimately decided not to enter.

Even so, she wrote a heartfelt letter:

"Dear Indonesia Pavilion Staff,

Hello everyone at the Indonesia Pavilion. My name is Ayuko. Although this is sudden, I want to sincerely thank all of you. Over the past six months, despite the extremely high humidity in Japan, you have brought smiles to so many people from morning to night.

…

I’m sure there are many rude people at the Expo, and I’m sure it may have been uncomfortable at times. I’m sorry. I know you may worry about your own country, but I truly respect all of you for doing your best to bring happiness to those in front of you. The “Yoyakunashi Girls & Boys” are definitely the MVPs of World Expo 2025!! You reminded me that singing, dancing, and laughing are what make life meaningful. Arigatou!!"

In her letter, Ayuko also expressed her admiration for the Indonesia Pavilion staff’s unwavering smiles, even in the heat, rain, and long queues. She closed her letter with a small wish:

"This is my first time writing a letter in Indonesian. I hope it reaches you well!"

From Us at the Indonesia Pavilion

To Tatsuji, Ayuko, and all our friends from around the world, thank you for making the Indonesia Pavilion a part of your story. We are honored to share smiles, energy, and culture with you at Expo 2025 Osaka.

These two letters serve as a reminder that the Indonesia Pavilion is more than just a building at the Expo, it’s a space where hearts meet. They didn’t just come to see Indonesia, they came to feel it.

If you’ve had a memorable experience at the Indonesia Pavilion, share your story on social media and tag us at @expo2025indonesia. Every story, no matter how small, is part of the beautiful journey we create together.

Love Letters to the Indonesia Pavilion