EXPO 2025 is just one month away from kicking off in Osaka, western Japan.



Officials unveiled the EV buses that will carry visitors to Yumeshima, the man-made island hosting the event. The buses can operate without drivers under certain conditions.



Some pavilions also gave the media a preview of their exhibits. In one of them, 12 Japanese companies and groups showcased the concept of a "Future City." The exhibit envisions a high-tech transit system where people are transported by planes and trains.



Another pavilion has a unique, egg-shaped exterior. There, visitors will be able to learn about the next-generation energy technology.



Excitement is building. Yamada Tomiyo says she rented an apartment near the expo site in December and plans to go every day. Yamada said: "I'm excited to meet different people and visit all the pavilions. I want to meet the staff from the participating countries and experience the world once more."



But not everyone shares the enthusiasm. As the opening approaches, there has been some concern that the event is not quite ready. So far, only eight of the 42 country pavilions have been completed.



Officials were hoping to sell about 14 million advance tickets. But as of March 5, they have only sold about 8 million. The Expo will launch on April 13 and run until mid-October.