Category: Public Events

Public events reports.

14 Useful Tips for EXPO 2025 Casual Visitors

Posted on By sweet surrender No Comments on 14 Useful Tips for EXPO 2025 Casual Visitors

Have you been to Expo 2025? Or are you planning to go there soon? I had posted about how to buy the Expo 2025 entrance ticket. This time, I’m going to share some tips on how to maximize your visit as a casual visitor like me. I only had a day to spare for this event. I’m glad I had the opportunity to go there. It’s likely a once in a lifetime visit for me.

EXPO 2025 Osaka
Before you go…

1. Buy the ticket in advance. The earlier the better. Best to go on weekdays. Cheaper ticket & less (still large!) crowds. Read more in this post https://irenelaw.com/expo-2025-osaka-ticket/

Get your tickets here…

Klook.com

Get the earliest entrance ticket. We wanted 9am but it was sold out. The second best is 10am. Might need to queue for 1 hour outdoor (sun/rain) to get in depending on how early you arrive. We arrived on time but got in at 11am.

2. Study the map, plan your route. Use it as a guide. Book/reserve accordingly. If failed, there’s still plenty to see. A blessing in disguise as you are more flexible to wander around. Just walk-in to any pavilion with short/moving queue. My list actually required at least 4 days to complete 😂 Pick a few in each zone & see how it goes on actual day. Be flexible.

3. Screen capture/print the ticket out as backup. There’s free WiFi at the entrance but still best to have it offline.

4. Download the app as guide https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/visitorsapp/ . It is useful for real-time navigation.

What to bring or not to bring?

5. IC card is good enough for cashless payments. I forgot to take photo of the recharge machines 🤦 It’s small, not obvious. You’ll find them in shops, at the corner, near the entrance. No English on the machine but shouldn’t be hard to figure out. Bring enough cash to reload your card.

6. Bring your bottle to refill water. Many water stations. They will scan your water bottle at the entrance for illegal substance. Bags and body will be scanned too.

7. Outside food is allowed. Plenty of food outlets inside. The prices are reasonable. Don’t worry. Don’t just set the budget for entrance tickets and transportation but budget for food too! You can bring your own food though to save some money. You’ll definitely need to allocate at least 10000yen/pax if you want to eat along the way depending on where, what, and the frequency you want to eat

8. Extendable tripod is not allowed. Umbrella is OK. Bring raincoat if you want. A cap/hat is convenient. Check the weather. We’re blessed with clear weather. It started to rain when we left. The next day was a wet day. We had left Osaka. Phew…

How to get there?
EXPO 2025 Osaka East Gate Entrance

9. The expo is easily accessible via public transport. Shuttle bus has fixed time (west gate). The subway (east gate) has flexible timing. I recommend the latter.

Where to start?

10. There are many souvenir shops/kiosks around. Don’t waste too much time in the official shop. However, do buy the passport at the shop upon entry if you want to get stamps at each location. I didn’t buy any souvenirs, not cheap 🤭 nothing fancied me too.

11. Start your visit from the information office (if you arrive at east gate) so that you don’t mess up the sequence (we did but got it rectified). It was overwhelming at first! Chill, deep breath, and follow your planned route with the help of the visitor app/guide.

Welcome to EXPO 2025 Osaka

12. You can access the award-winning Grand Ring of Expo 2025 anytime you’re there. There is no need to walk throughout the ring. It’s too long! About 2km! Unless you have time to spare. Just go up one escalator and down at the next one.

EXPO 2025 Osaka Grand Ring

13. Toilets are everywhere and each has its own building design in the event ground of Expo 2025.

14. There’s a transfer (e-Mover) from east gate to west gate and vice versa. It costs 400yen per pax (children too) by Osaka Metro. Our initial plan was to take it from west gate back to east gate but later decided to just walked back going through the Forest & Tranquility Zone. It’s actually not too far away as there were plenty to see and it made your walk felt shorter.

EXPO 2025 Osaka Grand Ring

Hope these tips helps. Thanks for reading this far.

More updates…

Lastly, feel free to check out more photos of Expo 2025 on my Instagram or Facebook. I’ll be updating more photos there.

Going Places, Land of the Rising Sun - Japan, Public Events

Buy EXPO 2025 Osaka One-Day Ticket | Easy & Quick Guide

Posted on By sweet surrender 1 Comment on Buy EXPO 2025 Osaka One-Day Ticket | Easy & Quick Guide
EXPO 2025 Osaka
Source: expo2025.or.jp

EXPO 2025 is happening now in Osaka, Japan until 13 October 2025. I had been looking up and down on how and where to buy the tickets for weeks but could not figure out how. I was confused by the early bird rates and the registrations. They also have different types of tickets which confused me as well. Furthermore, There are so much information (so many pages to read) that made me confused even more. Information overloaded it was! I actually gave up going.

However, on the 13th April, we decided to go there when we travel to Osaka. Since already there, might as well go. The entrance fee is within our budget. People plan for it, we did not, we just happen to be there. Furthermore, this might be the first and last expo we get to visit in our life. Unfortunately, I missed the early bird rates (last day was 12th April! A saving of 1000yen per pax!). I only understood how it’s done after found it on Klook and from EXPO Quick. Let’s dive into it…

Ticket Prices

The following is the prices of one-day ticket which most casual expo goers will likely be buying. There are many types of tickets available to suit your needs. Going on a weekday is much cheaper. By the way, children three years old and below will get free entrance. Also, there might be price changes on certain period such as peak season or holiday season. Hence it is important to know when you’ll be going.

EXPO 2025 One-day ticket prices
Source: expo2025.or.jp

You can CHECK OUT all the ticket types & prices on the official website.

Steps to Buy Admission Tickets

I’m sure quite many are as confused as me. I thought that you can go any day once you bought the ticket. Then, I saw there is a need to do booking for admission, visiting pavilions, and more. Oh my! So troublesome! So confusing! Furthermore, I did not have a specific date and time that time when I first look at the information. I was even more confused.

Step-by-Step Guide to Purchase EXPO 2025 tickets
Source: expo2025.or.jp

Having a date and time confirmed before you book is a MUST!

*Unless you’re are getting the multiple-entry pass.

Firstly, you have to create an ExpoID on the official website then follow the instructions in there to purchase the tickets.
If you buy from a third-party platform such as Klook, you need to go to the official website to create an ExpoID and register your ticket after that.

Secondly, with the ExpoID, you will be able to book to visit pavilions, shows, and more with it. Don’t worry, not all exhibits/activities there required booking. There are many free-to-enter exhibitions if you just want to be there free and easy.

Lastly, be sure to go to EXPO 2025 on the day and time you had booked. You don’t want to burn your ticket for sure!

Where to Buy Tickets?

I have compiled a few ways you can buy the ticket either online or offline. The following is what I know for your reference. There are other platforms selling it as well. Google it and you’ll likely find them. However, do take extra precaution to make sure the platform is legit.

1. Klook

Buy from Klook – EXPO 2025 Osaka E-Ticket (this link will link you to the page directly). One-day ticket and multiple entry ticket are available.

Klook.com

If you have Klook account and have some Klook Cash to spare, you might want to use this platform to buy your tickets. It is easy to understand and very straight forward. However, do note that you need to register an ExpoID on EXPO’s official website after you purchase the ticket from here. So, it’s a double-job but you can enjoy some discounts that you’re entitled to on the platform.

You can book it from the website or on the app. If you are booking for the first time on the app, you might want to try to apply this code “BetterOnApp2” to get 5% off on your first booking on mobile app (Terms & Conditions applies).

The ticket works the same as the Official Digital Ticket from the official website. If you don’t want to buy from a third-party, then buy it from the official website.

2. Official Website (ExpoID required)
Source: expo2025.or.jp

This is the Official Digital Ticket which was launched since the ticket started to go on sale. You can enjoy the full benefits that come with this ticket type. The link to get the ticket is here https://ticket.expo2025.or.jp/en/ . You get to make changes to the date and time of your visit. At least it is more flexible. Also, booking to visit some pavilions and events can be done using this ticket.

However, proper planning is needed as booking/lottery has time frame that you need to take note. They are not all the same. You also need to plan your route and timing in the Expo too as you need to get to your booking on time. The place is huge!

If you’re a casual visitor, just want to be free and easy when you’re there, then check out the next type of ticket.

3. Official Website – “EXPO Quick” Easy Tickets (No ExpoID required)

I did not see this before 13th April. It was only introduced on midnight (00:00) on 13th April 2025. No wonder…

This is the easiest to understand but you must have a fixed date and time to buy this type of ticket. There is no need to register for an ExpoID. You cannot do any booking/lottery application without an ExpoID. Therefore, it is suitable for those who got no plan to visit any specific pavilions or activities. You can only visit the general areas but fret not! Plenty of free-to-enter ones to visit.

Source: expo2025.or.jp

Access “EXPO Quick” with your smartphone or PC, select the date, time, gate, and number of tickets you wish to purchase, and pay. You will then be able to enter the Expo site using the QR code displayed after payment. There is no need to register an Expo ID. (source: expo2025.or.jp)

Source: expo2025.or.jp

Since you will only have a day here. You want to be able to cover as much as you can and be flexible.

One thing though… The price is the same as the normal ticket. It’s not cheaper. It’s really up to you which one you want to get. If you want to have the flexibility of making changes, then get the normal one else just settle for this will do.

4. Convenience Stores & Travel Agencies

You can also buy the printed tickets/vouchers at the convenience stores or travel agencies in Osaka instead of online. There might be some extra charges that they might charge. Your ticket might be slightly more expensive but this really depends on their policy.

You can find in-store terminals in major convenience store such as 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson, and Mini Stop in Japan. However, only Japanese language available in the terminal.

For vouchers bought from both convenience stores and travel agencies, you must exchange the vouchers for tickets with a QR code at the Ticket Exchange Office in front of the gates.

After entering, you can use your ticket with a QR code at the same-day registration terminals at the Expo site to make reservations for on-site events and pavilions.

You can register an ExpoID too to enjoy the booking and lottery benefits.

Have physical copy as backup!

Even though everything is digital, it’s recommended to have a copy of the QR code be it a screen capture or printed QR code in case there is issue with your phone or connection issues when you want to get your admission tickets.

By the way, it’s a cashless event. If you only have cash, you’ll need to get a prepaid card at the venue so that you can spend there.

I hope this post helps to clear your confusion on how to buy the ticket for EXPO 2025 Osaka. Thank you for reading till the end 😉

Going Places, Land of the Rising Sun - Japan, Public Events

A Visit to Northern Dales Farmer’s Markets

Posted on By sweet surrender No Comments on A Visit to Northern Dales Farmer’s Markets

On a Sunday morning, we decided to head out early to visit the Northern Dales Farmer’s Markets during our summer vacation. The market happens on the third Sunday of every month. We’re in luck as we’re there on the said day in August.

You can find them at Thirsk, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Borough of Stockton-on-Tees, Stokesley, and Northallerton. They don’t happen on the same days. You have to check out their FB page to get updates of the dates or any news related to the markets.

It’s a very small market but with lots of choices of products from individuals and local businesses to see and buy. It is best to go early if you want to get something as they ran out fast. Quite an interesting monthly event to support the local businesses.

We bought some cupcakes, scotch eggs, kimchi, and samosa for lunch. After that, we went to watch movie

Driving All the Way - England, Food Porn, Going Places, Public Events

Kuching Festival 2024 – Quick Overview

Posted on By sweet surrender No Comments on Kuching Festival 2024 – Quick Overview

It’s that time of the year again! Kuching Festival started from 26 July and will end on 18 August 2024 at MBKS community hall. it starts at 5pm. I’ve went there a few times. Here’s my quick overview of the event. If you do follow me on my Instagram or Facebook, you will already see the posts about it already. I’m going to compile all of them here.

Here’s some tips for you if you’re going to the festival:

If you want to go to Kuching Festival, do go before 5pm if you want to avoid the crowd and for easy parking. Otherwise, go after 9pm when the dinner crowd disperse.

Do remember to bring cash. Do not rely on e-wallet. You cannot fully trust it. Also, some stalls do not offer such payment method.

Aside from that, bring a portable fan with you. It’s extremely hot there! Having a cap or umbrella is good.

Oh! Bring your own bag or basket or trolley for your food. No plastic bags are provided.

In conclusion, it’s not a place to save money. You will likely to overspend or overbuy and overeat hahaha! Also, don’t expect all the food are delicious. It’s really by luck or by chance. Good luck!

To me, it’s just fun to see so many food and feel the festival vibes that you normally don’t get to experience. How about you?

Food Porn, Public Events, Uniquely Kuching

Pepsi Harvest Celebration Anthem (Happy Gawai Kaamatan) & Limited Edition Bag & Can Design

Posted on By sweet surrender No Comments on Pepsi Harvest Celebration Anthem (Happy Gawai Kaamatan) & Limited Edition Bag & Can Design

Get ready to celebrate Hari Gawai & Hari Kaamatan with Pepsi and TVS’s latest musical hit sensation, starring local celebrities Ramles Walter & Dabra Sia.

Kuala Lumpur, 29 April 2024 – Get ready to celebrate this year’s Hari Gawai and Kaamatan with Pepsi as they proudly announce their dynamic collaboration with TVS, teasing the launch of a music video that encapsulates the beauty and diversity of Hari Gawai Kaamatan in East Malaysia! The reveal was held at one of Kuching City’s historic landmarks, the Old Courthouse, with cultural performances and dances from Sarawakian and Sabahan ethnic groups.

This collaboration aims to honour the region’s traditions and artistic heritage while showcasing its unique cultural identity to wider audience. For the 2nd year running, Pepsi continues its tradition of honouring and engaging with the vibrant cultural heritage of Borneo. With a deep-seated passion for fostering unity and appreciation for cultural diversity, Pepsi’s collaboration with TVS serves as a platform to amplify the voices of East Malaysia’s talented artists and entertainers in what is considered the most significant festival in East Malaysia.

Entitled ‘Happy Gawai Kaamatan – Pepsi Harvest Celebration Anthem’, the music video showcases inspiring imagery and melody that tells of a familiar story that many East Malaysians can relate to; a story of anticipation and eagerness to travel home to their hometowns and celebrate with their friends and family in Thanksgiving for the bountiful harvests of the year. Featuring some of East Malaysia’s most celebrated artists, such as Ramles Walter and Dabra Sia, the music video is filmed against the stunning backdrop of East Malaysia’s landscapes and vibrant festivities, encapsulating the spirit of Hari Gawai and Hari Kaamatan.

The music video is set to premiere on 10th May 2024, just in time for the many East Malaysians residing in Peninsular Malaysia to embark on their journey home and those in East Malaysia to get into the spirit. Pepsi hopes that this festive melody will serve as the perfect companion for the festivities of Hari Gawai and Hari Kaamatan, where the celebrations are filled with good cheer.

Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing at Etika, expressed, “Pepsi’s journey in East Malaysia has been driven by a genuine commitment to preserve and promote the region’s unique traditions and artistic heritage. Over the past 2 years, we’ve been privileged to support and enrich the local creative community. Today, fueled by a shared dedication to authenticity, inspiration, and heartfelt expression, we are thrilled to offer a glimpse into Pepsi’s tribute to Sarawak and Sabah through the launch of Pepsi’s Hari Gawai & Kaamatan 2024 music video.

She continued, “Our partnership with TVS exemplifies this dedication as we celebrate the diverse talent, passion, and beauty that define East Malaysia. The Harvest Festival resonates deeply with Pepsi’s mission to ignite the vibrant spirit of Hari Gawai and Kaamatan and share it with households across the nation.“

In addition, Pepsi has unveiled 2024’s Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans, which are exclusively available in East Malaysia. Designed by the talented East Malaysian artists Daphne Siaw and Charles Mawan, these visually striking cans feature intricate patterns and symbols unique to Sarawak and Sabah, seamlessly blending the diverse indigenous cultural motifs beloved by all. Inspired by the rich tapestry of Hari Gawai and Hari Kaamatan, they feature motifs like the golden paddy fields and intricate patterns reflective of local arts and crafts.

At the base of the cans, the depiction of paddy rice symbolises prosperity and abundance—a cherished theme in Sarawakian and Sabahan folklore. Meanwhile, the vibrant array of colours reflects the traditional hues found in the rich tapestry of arts and crafts crafted by local artisans. Beyond being a limited edition, these cans serve as Pepsi’s heartfelt tribute to the diverse cultures of Sabah and Sarawak.

Mr. Mohamad Sardon Bin Zainal, Chief Media Officer of TVS, said, “We in TVS are proud to witness the culmination of our partnership with Etika and the remarkable journey we’ll be embarking on together. Today is not just about launching a new anthem or showcasing special edition cans; it’s about celebrating the spirit of Borneo, its rich culture, and our unwavering commitment to this beautiful region.”

He continued, “The Pepsi Harvest Celebration anthem is a testament to the vibrant tapestry of Borneo’s traditions and the joy of coming together in celebration. It’s a melody that resonates with the heartbeat of this land and the warmth of its people”.

Pepsi is excited to offer even more to our friends in East Malaysia! Purchase two cartons of 24-can Pepsi packs or RM50** at participating Hyper and Supermarkets and receive a complimentary non woven tote bag featuring Daphne Siaw and Charles Mawan designs. Alternatively, receive a designed canvas bag with the purchase of a 24-can Pepsi pack or RM30** at participating stores.

Make your way to the nearest supermarket and pick up your Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans today, but hurry while stocks last!

*Terms and conditions apply.
**Participating brands: Pepsi, Mirinda, Revive, Kickapoo, Mug Sarsaparilla, 7up, Tropicana, Calpis, Goodday in variants of 200ML/ 320ML / 350ML/ 400ML / 500ML / 1L/ 1.5L/ 320ML x 24’s / 320ML x 12’s / 325ML x 24’s/ 1.5L x 2

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