Oman to showcase cultural heritage through Manga at Expo 2025 Osaka
Visual magazine follows journey of Japanese student discovering Omani traditions and history
Osaka, Japan – MUSCAT – The Sultanate of Oman is set to present a unique cultural offering at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, through a visually engaging magazine in the style of Japanese manga. This artistic project reflects Oman's historic role as a bridge between civilisations and showcases its rich cultural heritage through a modern storytelling medium.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, involves eight Omani artists and illustrators who have collaboratively developed a fictional story in graphic novel format. The project is part of the wider efforts of the Sultanate's pavilion to highlight Omani identity and foster cultural communication with the world.
In a statement to the Oman News Agency, Ibrahim bin Saif Bani Araba, Assistant Director General for Arts at the Ministry and a member and rapporteur of the Technical Committee for Oman's Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, said the visual magazine was inspired by the wide popularity of manga in Japanese society and its global appeal.
He explained that the storyline follows a Japanese student who, after studying ancient writings, embarks on an imaginative journey to the Sultanate of Oman. His travels take him from Suhar to Muscat, exposing him to the essence of Omani culture and civilisation.
The narrative includes stops at historical sites such as aflaj systems, forts, castles, and natural landmarks like valleys. The student also explores traditional customs and social events, visits bustling souqs, and experiences folk arts and crafts. A highlight of the story is his visit to Muttrah Souq, where he learns about its historical role in trade and tourism.
After travelling through various Omani cities and immersing himself in their cultural wealth, the student returns to Japan and shares his journey with his family and classmates.
Coinciding with Japan's hosting of the world exposition, the student later visits Oman's pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka. There, he recognises the same elements from his imaginative journey—confirming the pavilion's success in bringing Oman's cultural treasures vividly to life.
'This manga project is a creative fusion of traditional Omani heritage and Japanese art style, aiming to appeal to younger generations and manga lovers,' said Bani Araba. 'It serves as a bridge of cultural dialogue, and a powerful artistic tool to communicate our history and values to a global audience.'
The Ministry's choice of manga as a storytelling vehicle underscores its strategy of blending modern artistic trends with authentic cultural content, reinforcing Oman's image as a nation deeply rooted in tradition while embracing contemporary global connections.
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