Chinese (Simplified) 
Chinese (Traditional) 
English 
French 
Alemão 
Italian 
Japanese 
Norwegian 
Spanish 
3 min read
0 comments
Grand Ring wins title of world's largest wooden structure and symbolizes the union between innovation and tradition at Expo Osaka 2025
The Grand Ring, a huge circular wooden walkway 2 kilometers long, has become one of the main attractions of Expo Osaka 2025, in Japan. The structure was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the “largest wooden architectural structure” on the planet on March 4, 2025.
Designed by Sou Fujimoto Architects, the Grand Ring is the main route for visitors to the Expo site, allowing a smooth flow through the space and protecting people from wind, rain and sunlight.
According to the Expo's official website, the catwalk was designed to offer a comfortable and practical experience to the public throughout the six months of the event.
-
The $10 billion telescope that sees the first galaxies and operates 1,5 million km from Earth
-
Malves tractors that dared to challenge the Brazilian market and were paralyzed by a bank blockade
-
The incredible construction of São Paulo that is impressing the world
-
US “radioactive time bomb” abandoned at secret Greenland base
Buy
Construction with traditional Japanese techniques
The Grand Ring is made mostly from local Japanese cedar and cypress, with a small amount of imported Scots pine.
The structure is approximately 30 meters wide and has an external diameter of 675 meters, providing ample space for visitors to move around.
One of the highlights of the project is the “Sky Walk”, an elevated area 12 meters high, decorated with flowers, which allows a panoramic view of the Expo and its surroundings.
At night, the structure transforms: warm lights and the texture of the wood create a magical atmosphere, inviting visitors to experience the space from a new perspective.
The construction method used combines modern techniques with the traditional Japanese Nuki joint technique. This technique, widely used in shrines and temples, allows the joining of wooden pieces without the use of nails or screws, reinforcing the cultural character of the work.
Expo symbol and global inspiration
The Expo organizers stated that the Grand Ring symbolizes the concept of “Unity in Diversity,” one of the central themes of the event. In addition to serving as the main artery for visitor traffic, the structure reinforces the spirit of integration and respect for traditions.
Although it was initially planned to be dismantled after the Expo closes on October 13, 2025, its future remains under discussion.
Japanese authorities are considering keeping it permanently and have opened up a space for local residents to submit suggestions on new uses for the Grand Ring.
The case is reminiscent of the story of the Eiffel Tower, which was also initially conceived as a temporary structure for an exhibition, but ended up becoming a permanent and world-renowned symbol.
Trend of large wooden constructions
The Grand Ring represents a global trend of using wood in large-scale architectural projects. Examples include the 9-acre roof of the Portland airport and the world's tallest wooden skyscraper, located in Milwaukee.
The choice of wood reaffirms its potential as a sustainable and versatile material, capable of combining beauty, resistance and environmental respect in large-scale works.
Another impressive record at Expo Osaka 2025
In addition to the Grand Ring, another recent milestone of Expo Osaka 2025 was recorded. On April 7, 2025, Guinness World Records recognized “A Synchronization of Air and Water” at the Expo’s Water Plaza as the “world’s largest interactive fountain feature.”
The show features around 300 fountains that react to visitors' gestures and hand movements, creating dynamic water patterns in the air.
According to the Expo organizers, the experience gives visitors the sensation of controlling the fountains as if they were magicians, providing moments of surprise and delight.
With information from Interesting Engineering.
