1972. A year etched in the history of EXPO’70 Commemorative Stadium. Not for its grand opening, as the name might playfully deceive you, but for the birth of a sporting giant. EXPO’70 Commemorative Stadium arose not in 1970 with the World’s Fair, but two years later, a testament to Osaka’s enduring spirit. Imagine the roar of the crowd as athletes first graced its field. The stadium, nestled within the vibrant Expo Commemoration Park, quickly became a hub for athletic prowess. However, it wasn’t until 1993, with the restructuring of professional football in Japan, that EXPO’70 Commemorative Stadium truly found its star tenant: Gamba Osaka. This marked a turning point, transforming the stadium into a football sanctuary. While the 2002 World Cup buzzed through Japan, EXPO’70 Commemorative Stadium, despite expansions, remained just shy of FIFA’s requirements. Yet, this didn’t diminish its spirit. The stadium hosted the AFC Champions League, witnessing Gamba Osaka’s triumphant victory in 2008. This victory propelled them to the FIFA Club World Cup, where they secured a respectable third place. EXPO’70 Commemorative Stadium, a versatile arena, continues to host athletic events and community gatherings. It stands as a symbol of Osaka’s sporting legacy, a vibrant echo of Expo ’70’s innovative spirit.
旧守口市立下島小学校
Shimojima Elementary School’s bell echoed one last time in March 2024. This marked the end of its 49-year history. It