Precious exhibits on display for Osaka's show

Tensho Naga Oban gold coin

The Japanese city Osaka will display precious screen paintings from the reign of feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1583-1615) in its World Expo 2010 Shanghai Urban Best Practices Area which will cover 646 square meters.

The paintings depict street scenes and lifestyles at the time of Hideyoshi to give a full picture of Osaka, according to the city's participation Website (http://expo2010-osaka.jp/topics/0904/27_01.html).

Also on the list is an artificial Tensho Naga Oban gold coin. The originals were minted in the late 16th century under Hideyoshi's orders. The oval coin is 17 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide, making it one of the largest gold coins in the world.

Meanwhile, Osaka is seeking a logo for its pavilion and the public is encouraged to participate. An appeal for submissions will remain open until June 5. The first prize winner will receive around 7,000 yuan (US$1024.9).

Detailed information is available at http://expo2010-osaka.jp/topics/0904/27_01.html.

Osaka will present a watery world, introducing its development of water transport as well as curbing water disasters.

The display will also involve innovative and sophisticated technologies designed to achieve a more comfortable life and a better environment.

The theme is "Advanced Environment City -- The Challenge of the Water Metropolis." Construction of the pavilion is expected to start in November.