The 23rd edition of Japan Expo in 2024 concluded last evening with joy, goodwill, and good humor as is customary each year. This event provided the organizers an opportunity to announce attendance figures, which are notably lower than previous years. Over four days of celebration, approximately 200,000 visitors attended the Villepinte Exhibition Park, marking a decrease of over 55,000 compared to Japan Expo in 2023, which welcomed 255,259 enthusiasts of Japanese culture and beyond. In the accompanying press release, it is noted that this decline was anticipated by the organizers due to “unprecedented events unfolding in our country,” though they clarify that certified numbers will be released during the post-holiday period of 2024. The impact of the Olympic Games? A somber atmosphere following legislative elections? It remains unclear exactly what the Japan Expo organizers mean when they refer to these unprecedented events, but social media suggests there may be additional factors influencing this attendance drop.
Between 25 and 34 euros for an entrance ticket, which varies depending on the chosen day, while a 4-day Pass is priced at 90 euros. Prices have increased, and Japan Expo attributes this to a record number of international guests, particularly from Japan. This must also be considered in light of the event’s dates in the second week of July, which may impact visitor availability, especially for those on summer holiday, as Japan Expo has traditionally been held in the first week of July. Another factor is the surge in Japanese tourism due to a historically low value of the Yen, making travel and enjoyment more accessible worldwide. Additionally, it should be noted that we are still experiencing inflationary pressures impacting French finances, which may lead individuals to prioritize their activities accordingly. Despite these circumstances, the festive atmosphere and visitor enthusiasm remain unchanged, and organizers are looking forward to Japan Expo’s participation in the Universal Exposition in Osaka in 2025.
Japan Expo 2024 in a few numbers:
448 hours of programming on stage
487 artists
579 events
Japan Expo 2024, held at Villepinte Exhibition Park, concluded with a total attendance of 200,000 visitors over four days. This marks a decrease of more than 55,000 compared to the previous year. Organizers had anticipated this reduction due to unspecified “unprecedented events” in the country, which may be related to recent political and economic factors such as legislative elections and inflation. Ticket prices for the event ranged from €25 to €90, reflecting an increase that coincides with a record number of international guests, particularly from Japan. Factors contributing to lower attendance include the July dates conflicting with summer holidays and the global appeal of Japanese tourism due to a weak Yen. Despite the decrease in visitors, organizers reported a festive atmosphere and expressed optimism about Japan Expo’s participation in the 2025 Universal Exposition in Osaka. This year’s event featured 448 hours of programming, performances by 487 artists, and the hosting of 579 events.
900 exhibitors
Japan Expo 2024 concluded last weekend with an attendance of 200,000 visitors, marking a decrease of over 55,000 compared to the previous year. This decline was anticipated by organizers due to unspecified “unprecedented events” in France, which may refer to factors such as the Olympic Games and the political climate following elections. The event featured ticket prices ranging from €25-34 for single days or a €90 4-day pass. Despite these challenges, Japan Expo 2024 included 448 hours of programming, involved 487 artists, hosted 579 events, and accredited 2,861 professionals (including 667 internationals). Additionally, the event showcased 900 exhibitors. Despite the challenges faced, Japan Expo maintained a positive atmosphere, with organizers already planning their participation in the Universal Exposition in Osaka in 2025.
For fans of classic Japanese animation and gaming, there’s an exciting development on the horizon. Ahmed Hassan’s recent piece “Goldorak’s Saucer Spazer Phases Unveiled by Microids, Evokes After Burner” (published on August 11, 2023) delves into Microids’ upcoming game “Goldorak The Wolves’ Feast,” set for release on November 14th. This game promises to captivate enthusiasts of Récré A2 and Club Dorothée with its shoot ’em up segment featuring Alcor and his OVT, along with Actarus piloting Goldorak’s Spazer form. Intriguingly, the teaser hints at a gameplay style reminiscent of Sega’s After Burner. To learn more about this thrilling retro revival, be sure to check out Ahmed Hassan’s article [Read the article].
