JR West’s new Expo 2025 store reveals limited edition merch

A collage showing the Osaka Expo 2025 logo and various artist impressions of the Expo site

The JR West Group is pulling out all the stops with its official merchandise store at the Osaka Kansai Expo 2025.

With a rumored visit by US President Donald Trump, the construction of a life sized Gundam statue and recently announced branded planes, excitement is building for the upcoming Osaka Kansai Expo 2025.

JR West is promising visitors to the Expo a unique shopping experience that blends the excitement of the Expo with the charm of Western Japan’s trains.

The store will be a treasure trove of officially licensed merchandise featuring the Expo’s logo, the Expo mascot Myakumyaku, and other exclusive items you won’t find anywhere else.

A person in a costume potraying Myakumyaku the mascot character for Expo 2025
Myakumyaku is the official mascot for Expo 2025

JR West has partnered with other JR companies and private railways in the Kansai region to offer a range of unique, railway-themed products.

An image of Iko-chan, a cartoon platypus which is the mascot of the ICOCA travel card
Iko-chan is the mascot of the ICOCA card used by JR West

This will include Expo-branded Shinkansen merchandise or items featuring Iko-chan, the popular mascot of the ICOCA travel cards used in the Kansai area and parts of western and central Japan.

One exciting offering is plush toy sets that includes a commemorative ICOCA card (a rechargeable travel card) featuring Expo designs.

Plush mascot and train themed products available from the JR West store

This collaboration between the Expo and the extensive railway network of Western Japan offers a unique opportunity to collect memorable souvenirs.

The store will also showcase collaborations with companies and artists deeply connected to Western Japan.

Artist themed products available from the JR West store

These special products highlight the region’s unique appeal and offer a chance to own a piece of Western Japanese artistry. These collaborative items will offer a unique blend of Expo branding and local artistry, showcasing the diverse talents of the region.

Artist themed products available from the JR West store

“Craftsmanship” will be a key theme, with the store showcasing the artistry and dedication of local artisans. JR West is committed to preserving and promoting the traditional crafts and cultural heritage of Western Japan.

The store will feature carefully selected products that reflect the region’s history, culture, and lifestyle, ensuring that these traditions continue to thrive.

Craft themed products available from the JR West store

A wide array of souvenirs will be available, such as sake cups, sweets and even an Expo 2025 exclusive popcorn bucket featuring Myakumyaku.

Souvenier products available from the JR West store

The store’s design itself will be a visual spectacle, blending a futuristic aesthetic with elements inspired by train stations.

Giant capsule toy displays will adorn the entrance pillars, adding a playful touch.

The exit wall will feature art created from actual train and station signs and straps, creating a unique and memorable backdrop.

An artists impression of how the JR West store at Expo 2025 will appear
An artists impression of how the JR West store will appear

The centerpiece of the store’s interior will be a massive, hemispherical display suspended from the ceiling.

This 3-meter diameter sphere will showcase dynamic videos, character animations, and stunning scenery from Western Japan, providing an immersive and entertaining experience for shoppers.

Adding to the store’s unique atmosphere, JR West has commissioned Kyoto-based artist Baron Ueda to create an original illustration for use as part of the staff’s uniform.

An illustration featuring various elements of Japanese culture and JR West staff
The illustration was commissioned by JR West for use on the uniforms of the stores staff

This illustration incorporates motifs inspired by Osaka, Kansai, and Japanese culture, capturing the energy and dynamism of the JR West Group as they move towards the Expo.

As well as the physical store, JR West is also launching a dedicated online store for Expo visitors, offering a convenient way to shop and collect souvenirs.

By entering a dedicated passcode, displayed throughout the Expo site, visitors can browse and purchase merchandise online, avoiding crowds and minimizing baggage.

Visitors using the online store can have purchased items shipped directly to their homes or pick them up at designated locations at JR Osaka Station and JR Shin-Osaka Station.

A map of the Expo 2025 site showing the location of the R West site
The location of the JR West store within the Expo 2025 site

The passcode will be updated daily, ensuring access to the latest offerings.

This online store provides a seamless and convenient way for visitors to secure their Expo souvenirs and ensures that they don’t miss out on any exclusive merchandise.

The physical store will be open between 13th April and 13th October 2025 and will be open 7 days a week, including on holidays, between the hours of 9am and 9:30pm.

Sources: PR Times

Images: © JR West Group

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