インドネシア館

“Have you tasted Indonesian cuisine?” This question might seem out of place, but it connects to the fascinating story of the インドネシア館 at Expo ’70 in Osaka. The インドネシア館 showcased Indonesia’s rich history and culture, from ancient times to its modern advancements. It was a remarkable structure, designed to resemble Indonesia’s official symbol, the Sakura flower, with five interconnected petals. Each petal housed exhibits covering different aspects of Indonesian life. Visitors could explore traditional arts and crafts, learn about the country’s technological achievements like the HJT-16, Indonesia’s first domestically produced jet aircraft, or marvel at the “Dalip”, a traditional Indonesian wooden boat. A replica of the moon rock brought back by Apollo 11 was also displayed, drawing long queues. A central pond within the pavilion invited visitors to toss coins, a practice that resulted in a surprising donation to a local charity after the Expo. An interesting culinary story unfolded at the インドネシア館. The “Ashoka Hotel” operated an Indonesian restaurant within the pavilion. It introduced a unique soft cream with a coffee flavor, a novelty at the time. This seemingly insignificant event marked a pivotal moment. It foreshadowed the widespread popularity of soft-serve ice cream in Japan, now a beloved treat found everywhere. The pavilion was not only visually captivating but also offered a unique sensory experience. Visitors could witness a traditional Indonesian cooking demonstration, tantalizing their senses with the aroma of exotic spices. The インドネシア館 became a hub of cultural exchange, fostering greater understanding between Japan and Indonesia. Though the physical pavilion is no longer standing, its legacy continues to inspire and resonate, reminding us of the power of cultural exchange and the lasting impact of a single, captivating event.