Music performance is staged during the Wuxi Day event. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

The 2025 Osaka World Expo, which takes place in Osaka, Japan, from April 13 to Oct 13, welcomed the Wuxi Day event on May 21.

Launched at the Chinese Pavilion, the Wuxi Day event showcased how tradition and modernity intertwine and cultural richness and industrial vitality harmonize in the city through the performance of intangible cultural heritage, cultural and tourism resource promotions, and economic and trade cooperation.

Centered around technological advantages, innovative spirit, and Wuxi's livable and business-friendly urban characteristics, the event highlighted the city's industrial and commercial environment, cultural tourism resources, and two distinctive industrial parks.

Wuxi, situated at the forefront of China's opening-up, has long maintained frequent economic and trade exchanges with Japan, making it a leading "Japanese investment hub" in the Yangtze River Delta and even nationwide.

As Wuxi's second-largest trading partner, Japan saw the total import and export volume reach $9.27 billion in 2024, a 6 percent year-on-year increase. Japan is also the fifth-largest source of foreign investment in Wuxi, with 1,291 Japanese enterprises having invested over $16 billion by the end of last year.

Several projects focused on manufacturing were signed. These projects are expected to use Japan's expertise in mechanical manufacturing and hydrogen energy storage, helping boost Wuxi's high-quality development.

A girl tries to make a Yixing purple clay teapot during the Wuxi Day event. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

In the multifunctional exhibition hall of the Chinese Pavilion, crowds gathered to witness the exquisite Huishan clay figurines, unique Yixing purple clay creations, intricate bamboo carvings, and delicate embroidery. Against melodious Jiangnan music performances, intangible cultural heritage masters showcased their superb skills, offering a unique cultural feast.

A global launch ceremony was held for Wuxi's cultural and tourism brand Taihu Lake Yaji. Through activities such as exhibitions of paintings related to Taihu Lake by renowned artists, interviews with famous artists and painters, and art exchanges, the event aimed to establish the cultural and tourism brand and enhance Wuxi's international visibility and reputation.