Monday, March 24, 2025
Pasona Group Inc., headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, and led by Group CEO Yasuyuki Nambu, has announced the launch of a new high-speed boat service, the PASONA NATUREVERSE Go, designed to connect the Expo 2025 site on Yumeshima, Osaka, with Awaji Koryu no Tsubasa Port on Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture. The service, which aims to draw both domestic and international visitors to Awaji Island, will begin operations on April 13, 2025, coinciding with the commencement of the highly anticipated Expo 2025.
The PASONA NATUREVERSE Go is a bold initiative by Pasona Group, which has been deeply involved in regional revitalization projects on Awaji Island since 2008. The boat service will operate exclusively during Expo 2025, providing easy and scenic access between the two locations and highlighting the natural beauty of Osaka Bay and Awaji Island. With a journey time of approximately one hour each way, passengers will be treated to spectacular views of the coast, Awaji Island, and the iconic Grand Ring of the Expo, making it a scenic experience in addition to a practical mode of transport.
The unveiling ceremony of the vessel will take place on March 28, 2025, at Awaji Koryu no Tsubasa Port. It will be an exclusive media event, showcasing the unique design and capabilities of the PASONA NATUREVERSE Go.
A Focus on Regional Revitalization and Well-Being
Pasona Group has long been committed to the revitalization of Awaji Island, leveraging its resources to bring people and opportunities to the region. The company has been attracting visitors and residents alike through various tourism initiatives, including the development of local tourist facilities and events that showcase the island’s rich culture and heritage.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Pasona Group will also exhibit a pavilion at Expo 2025 named PASONA NATUREVERSE, which will present a range of exhibits centered around the themes of “Body, Mind, and Bonds.” These initiatives are part of Pasona’s broader vision to contribute to the realization of a “society of well-being” – one that values human connections, personal fulfillment, and sustainability.
High-Speed Vessel Specifications and Timetable
The PASONA NATUREVERSE Go is a modern, high-performance vessel with the following specifications:
- Official Name: awaline Kirara (PASONA NATUREVERSE Go)
- Service Launch: April 13, 2025 (pending route establishment application)
- Service Period: April 13 – October 13, 2025
- Ship Owner: Wako Senpaku K.K.
- Dimensions: 35 meters in length, 8.7 meters in width, and a draft of 1.2 meters
- Weight: 184 tons
- Speed: 25 knots (approx. 46 km/h)
- Capacity: 170 passengers
The boat will run on a fixed timetable throughout the Expo period:
- Outbound: Awaji Koryu no Tsubasa Port to Yumeshima, Osaka – Departure at 9:30 AM, Arrival at 10:30 AM
- Return: Yumeshima, Osaka to Awaji Koryu no Tsubasa Port – Departure at 5:29 PM, Arrival at 6:30 PM
This schedule applies every day, including weekends and holidays, though it may be subject to change due to weather conditions. Passengers can find real-time updates and detailed information on the official website.
Fare and Ticket Information
- Estimated Fare: 3,600 yen one-way (tax included, other details pending)
- Ticket Sales: Tickets will be available for purchase on the official website, which will launch soon. Same-day tickets can also be purchased at each port.
With the launch of the PASONA NATUREVERSE Go, Pasona Group hopes to enhance the visitor experience at Expo 2025, while also promoting Awaji Island as a key destination for tourists looking to explore the beauty and culture of the region. This project highlights Pasona’s ongoing commitment to regional revitalization and its role in shaping Japan’s tourism landscape.
As the Expo 2025 draws closer, this high-speed vessel will offer not only a practical and convenient travel option but also a unique way to explore the natural beauty of the Osaka Bay area and Awaji Island.
