A Wooden World Record at Expo 2025: The Grand Ring

World expos have long been more than just platforms for showcasing technology and innovation; they are spaces where humanity's imagination and visions for a shared future come to life. At Expo 2025 in Osaka, a monumental wooden structure is capturing global attention. With its harmony with nature, engineering brilliance, and architecture that symbolizes a bridge between cultures, this structure is: the Grand Ring.

The Grand Ring has made history not only through its design and engineering, but also with its scale. On March 4, 2025, it was officially recognized as the “World’s Largest Wooden Structure” and entered the Guinness World Records. Built to last for centuries, this wooden ring is far more than a temporary expo installation; it stands as a permanent, sustainable, and record-breaking symbol that has earned its place in architectural history.

Image Sourceı: https://www.expo2025.or.jp

Designed by Sou Fujimoto, the Grand Ring encircles the Expo 2025 site like a monumental wooden halo. Covering a total area of 61,035.55 square meters, this massive wooden ring stretches over two kilometers in perimeter and reaches a width of 30 meters. Varying in height between 12 and 22 meters, the structure was built using local cedar and cypress trees sourced from different regions of Japan. To accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of wood, the entire system was designed with flexibility in mind. Engineered to withstand earthquakes and severe weather conditions, the Grand Ring stands not only as a design marvel, but also as a structural feat of engineering.

The design process of the Grand Ring embraced an environmentally conscious approach, aiming to minimize its carbon footprint. Wood was chosen not only for its renewable nature but also for its capacity to store carbon, making it a sustainable material. In addition, the use of locally sourced materials during construction helped reduce logistical impact and supported the regional economy. Remarkably, the Grand Ring was built without the use of metal fasteners such as nails or screws. Instead, it was assembled using traditional Japanese carpentry techniques, specifically “nuki” joinery systems. These interlocking wooden joints exemplify the perfect union of centuries-old craftsmanship and modern engineering.

The walkways created on the structure’s roof, known as the Sky Walk, are designed to give visitors the sensation of walking above the trees. The plants used in these areas change with the seasons, offering a constantly evolving natural experience for those who explore the space.

Görsel Kaynağı: https://www.dezeen.com/2025/04/24/the-grand-ring-expo-2025-osaka/

Expo 2025: A Rehearsal for the Future

Held on Yumeshima Island in Osaka, Expo 2025 will take place under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”
Running from April 13 to October 13, the event will host over 150 countries, international organizations, and millions of visitors. The central focus of Expo 2025 is to foster innovative solutions in areas such as health, environment, technology, and social well-being.

The Grand Ring stands as the physical embodiment of this vision. Far more than just a structure, this massive wooden ring represents a powerful symbol of how humanity must build its future  in harmony with nature, in respect for one another, and by embracing diversity.

Görsel Kaynağı:  https://www.dezeen.com/2025/04/24/the-grand-ring-expo-2025-osaka/

References
Expo 2025 Official Website
https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/expo-map-index/main-facilities/grandring/

Dezeen
https://www.dezeen.com/2025/04/24/the-grand-ring-expo-2025-osaka/

Expo 2025 Official Website
https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/news/news-20240821-01/

Expo 2025 Official Website – Guinness World Record Certificate
https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/news/news-20250304-02/