Osaka Expo Hit by Legionella: Water Shows Suspended Amid Health Risks

Osaka, Japan - In a surprising turn of events, the Expo 2025 in Osaka has temporarily halted its popular water shows due to bacterial contamination. According to Inkl, legionella bacteria were detected at alarming levels—up to 20 times above the legal limit. As a result, the fountain performances at the Water Plaza, which once drew enthusiastic crowds, have been suspended since June 4.

The situation escalated quickly. Initial lower levels of contamination were noted a week before the drastic measures were taken, but they didn’t seem alarming at the time. Now, with the Forest of Tranquility—a 5.7-acre shallow pool where visitors could soak their feet—closed for cleaning, the water features have become a focal point for concern. Legionella bacteria, as highlighted by the CDC, can lead to pneumonia, emphasizing the need for caution.

Closure of Popular Attractions

The cancellation of performances, including the much-anticipated “Under the Midnight Rainbow,” was officially announced on June 4 at approximately 18:00, following advice from the Osaka City Public Health Centre. Apologies were extended to visitors, with the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition acknowledging the letdown. “A Symphony of Air and Water” performances on June 5 and 6 have also been scrapped, leaving many wondering when they might resume.

Hiroyuki Ishige, the secretary-general of the organizing committee, expressed that quicker action should have been taken regarding the contamination. The expo’s organizers are now implementing a series of anti-bacterial measures, which include increasing sanitation efforts, cleaning drainage pipes, and improving water circulation to meet health authority standards for a safe reopening.

Challenges Beyond Bacteria

As if the contamination wasn’t enough, organizers are also grappling with swarms of midges that have been bothering visitors for weeks. This pesky problem is believed to originate from the Water Plaza, leading to additional measures such as installing insect screens. Despite these issues, there have been no reported health problems linked to the water contamination.

It’s worth noting that the expo is hosted on a former industrial waste burial site in Osaka Bay, where methane gas was detected shortly before the event’s grand opening in April. This backdrop raises questions about the venue’s environmental resilience and the challenges that come with hosting such a massive event that showcases futuristic exhibits from over 160 countries, regions, and organizations.

With an expected attendance of 28 million visitors by mid-October, the pressure is on the organizers to address these health concerns swiftly. As they strive to restore the joy of water performances, they are committed to collaborating closely with health authorities and monitoring the situation closely. While the current pause is unfortunate, there’s something to be said for prioritizing visitor safety in the face of potential health risks.

For now, those planning to attend the Osaka Expo will need to stay tuned for updates regarding the rescheduling of the water shows and other attractions affected by these unforeseen circumstances.