Interview: Kenji Kohashi

This was inspired by a quote from a book written by Japanese astronaut Mamoru Mohri, which conveys the idea that life has evolved in diverse environments, thanks to the steps taken by each individual. In these chaotic times, the steps taken by each and every one of us are crucial, if we are to progress towards a brighter future.

As organisers, we’ve put forward the concept of ‘That One Step Will Change the Future’, so it’s only fitting that we take on this challenge ourselves. This led us to the notion of ‘Global Empathy’, a term that conveys a sense of connection between people, the planet and all things that contribute to life and living.

In Japan, we have a cultural heritage of coexistence with nature. But empathy isn’t something exclusive to Japanese people; it’s shared by all life on Earth. ‘Global Empathy’ has a strong spiritual component, and as a phrase it might sound far removed from our lives, but I do believe we’re entering an era when this concept will come to the fore.

For example, we hear the word ‘immersive’ a lot these days. Immersive means something in which we become absorbed, and it’s a way of becoming one with a performance or work of art, as opposed to the audience being an external element. Things like teamLab’s ‘immersion in art’, or the Star Island project I’ve worked on, are becoming the norm.

One of the main events is ‘One World, One Planet’, which will be held daily for 184 days,

At the same time each day, the entire site will become like a single living organism, with guests, music, and illuminations all becoming one. Simultaneously, people across the world will be invited to make a wish, creating a moment in which physical distance is transcended by everybody’s thoughts similarly becoming one.

Today, many people live life on autopilot without any real hopes, or they live by the rules and standards of others. I hope this event encourages people to connect with their own heartfelt desires instead. At the same time, they will see the wishes of others worldwide. A participant might think their wish surely can’t be shared, only to discover that somebody, somewhere has the same desire. This might sound like a dream, but if positive wishes come together and people's hopes grow stronger, that might lead to a better future.

Basically, the Expo is only possible with the participation of people and enterprises worldwide. One day, we might focus on connecting with outer space, with people sending wishes from Earth to space. We might also link festivals across Japan. The bigger a wish becomes, and the more of them we gather, then the greater potential for positive impact. Even after the Expo ends, we hope it becomes a catalyst for new initiatives elsewhere.

Yes, there’s ‘Physical Twin Symphony’, a new kind of live performance in which people are freed from physical, mental and temporal limitations. For example, artists will be able to perform without being physically present, via remote technology. This even includes artists who have already departed this world. Differently abled people, meanwhile, may have a chance to perform more freely with the aid of this technology. Other hi-tech features include a daily show titled ‘Under the Midnight Rainbow’, in which around 300 fountains, plus synchronised music and lasers, create a narrative experience.

We plan to focus on mostly non-verbal content. When words are necessary, there will be basic support in English and Japanese, but we’re aiming for experiences that are enjoyable even for those who don’t understand the language used. We’re also preparing events that will introduce festivals and other aspects of traditional culture from across Japan. We’re avoiding stereotypes of ‘Japanese-ness’, however, and instead highlighting unique elements that combine local and international influences.

Regions and companies from across Japan will participate in the events. However, many see the Expo as not just a venue, but as an opportunity to draw people to their own area. Japan may be small geographically, but it’s rich in diverse environments. I hope visitors experience the entirety of Japan through the Expo, leading to mutual growth and revitalisation across the country.

I hope it becomes a catalyst for people to rediscover their true selves and live with purpose, contributing to a beautiful planet. The main concept, ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’, envisions a world where all living things return to their natural way of life, supporting each individual’s path forward. By moving beyond comfort zones, we may transcend personal barriers, embrace the unexpected, and start living as our true selves.

It’s not just an event; it’s a global gathering of knowledge, dreams and energy. The Expo will not solve everything. But if it inspires people to look outward, and they later look back and think, ‘It all began that time at the Expo!’, then that will be its greatest legacy.

Born 1979 in Tokyo, Kenji Kohashi is the CEO and creative director of The Human Miracle Inc. Following an early career as a child actor, Kohashi entered the field of film and event production. His debut as a film director, 2012’s ‘Don’t Stop!’, won two awards at the SKIP City Film Festival. He has since produced major events including Star Island, and directed the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics closing ceremony. He also contributes to urban and regional development projects.