“SAVE THE CURRY — There’s curry that must be protected.”

Centered in Osaka, renowned as the holy land of spice curry, the Kansai region’s curry culture has been gaining momentum in recent years. This project is dedicated to celebrating and protecting the beloved dish of curry—along with its makers—by sharing love, gratitude, and respect. It aims to promote the appeal of curry itself, the shops, the people, and the culture that make it a treasured part of Kansai.

Looking ahead to the EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, the project gathers and shares comprehensive information on curry from the two prefectures and four prefectural areas of Kansai—not only across Japan but worldwide—broadcasting the diverse charms of Kansai’s uniquely evolving curry culture. Activities focus on preserving and advancing this distinctive culinary heritage.

Project Inauguration

The Kansai curry culture is borderless, genre-free, and freestyle. Many curry shops are run by individuals or as side businesses, and it’s common for these owners to quietly struggle with challenges or lack the time and resources to promote themselves. This reality—that many curry shops are “clumsy” when it comes to anything beyond making curry—sparked the creation of this project to provide support and relief.

Additionally, the project works to increase opportunities for curry fans to exchange information and to raise the number of “Curry Guides” who share information aimed at beginners who find it difficult to approach some shops, helping to lower barriers and make the culture more accessible.

Project Activities

Regular “SAVE THE CURRY” gatherings are held as curry exchange events to bring together curry makers and lovers, expanding the circle of activity. Information is shared through the official LINE account, and the project includes the development of “Mamoru-kun,” an AI devoted to curry enthusiasts, as well as the ongoing release of the “Kansai Curry Certification,” a curry quiz challenge.

Additionally, a booklet titled “咖喱人 – CURRY PEOPLE” is planned for publication to share the history of Osaka’s curry and highlight the charm of curry shop owners.

Future Prospects for the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai

The Kansai Curry Stamp Rally, tentatively named “Machigoto Curry Pavilion,” is held alongside “Curry Information Centers” that guide tourists to curry shops throughout Kansai. Additionally, regular street radio sessions called the “Kansai Curry Survey Report” offer open curry talks in the community.