The Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025 will become the tallest wooden structure of its kind in Japan and the first-ever building where a wooden construction serves as the primary load-bearing system.
A total of 155 NOVATOP elements will form a striking wooden spiral that wraps around the entire exhibition, exposing visible timber throughout the interior. The façade will be crafted from Czech glass, creating a stunning visual contrast.
All wooden components for this architectural landmark of EXPO 2025 have been designed and manufactured in the Czech Republic using approximately 1,000 m³ of high-quality timber. This pavilion is not only a testament to technical innovation and precise craftsmanship within the Czech woodworking industry but also a symbol of the high added value that Czech timber gains before being exported to global markets. The architects from Apropos Architects have masterfully combined natural wood and traditional Czech artistic glass to design visually captivating interiors and exteriors, which are sure to enchant visitors with their originality.
The exhibition, held between April and October 2025, will focus on the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives” and is expected to attract up to 28.5 million visitors.
Compliance with Japanese Building Standards
According to Ondřej Soška, General Commissioner of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025, the exhibition fully complies with Japanese regulations and standards. Authorities needed to be convinced that a timber structure, without steel load-bearing elements, would be sufficiently strong and resilient to withstand potential earthquakes and typhoon-induced winds, which are common in the region.
A Milestone for the Czech Timber Industry
“It is a tremendous honor for us to contribute to such a prestigious project as the Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025. It is not just a representation of our country but also a showcase of the very best that the Czech Republic has to offer the world. After overcoming initial criticism, I am especially proud that we succeeded in securing a pavilion that is not only the tallest but, in my opinion, the most beautiful and entirely made of wood—which I consider the greatest victory,” says Jiří Oslizlo, Chairman of the Board of AGROP NOVA a.s. He further emphasizes: “My gratitude goes to everyone involved in this project, including General Commissioner Ondřej Soška, Apropos Architects, ARCHAPLAN S.R.O., and the A2 Timber team, which is responsible for the design and delivery of the wooden structure elements for Daisue Construction Co., Ltd.”
Visualization: © Office of the General Commissioner
Design: Apropos Architects
Structural Design, Supply, and Assembly of Timber Components: A2 Timber
General Contractor: Daisue Construction Co., Ltd.
Photos: Archive of NOVATOP (AGROP NOVA a.s.), Ondřej Pavlačík, Office of the General Commissioner, A2 Timber
