The "2025 Osaka World Expo" officially kicks off this month (April 13th), launching a six-month spectacle that's already drawing massive crowds and sparking buzz with its incredible international exhibits.
But here's a wild twist: one netizen discovered that the Yemen pavilion, representing the Middle Eastern nation, isn't just turning heads with its cultural goods or cuisine. Nope, it's the booth's authentic "offer-and-haggle" sales style that's got everyone talking! It's apparently ignited the legendary haggling spirit of Osaka locals, sending the internet into a frenzy on X. Who knew the Expo would become a global bargaining battleground?
The post that blew up came from VTuber Sora Tabino, a former war correspondent who returned from Ukraine. She was absolutely floored by the Yemen pavilion, where the atmosphere was pure, unadulterated market haggling. Osaka residents were diving right in, leading to scenes like this:
"How much for this, eh?"
♂️ (Silently flashes a calculator displaying 10,000)
"Whaaat?! That's way too much! Give it to me for three thousand!"
♂️ "Nooo!! Absolutely not!!"
These epic negotiations were happening non-stop, making the whole place buzz with energy!
What truly blew her mind, though, was the communication breakdown: Japanese? Barely understood. English? Just enough to get by, but detailed conversations were a no-go. But then, she tried Osaka dialect – and suddenly, they were communicating perfectly! It was like magic. She even ended up buying a headscarf (lol).
Netizens were equally amazed, marveling at an "Arabian vs. Osaka haggling war" unfolding right inside the Expo. Osaka folks are famous for their bargaining prowess, and now even Yemenis are getting a taste of that "Osaka obasan madness" (www).
Many initially wondered, "Can you really haggle there?" Sora Tabino clarified that it's all part of the Yemen pavilion's charm – designed to let visitors experience "negotiation" (値切交涉), a core element of Middle Eastern market culture. Here, haggling isn't rude; it's an "art form of buying and selling."
She even shared a pro tip: "If you decide not to buy, just turn and walk away. But whatever you do, don't look back! That's called the 'turn-around tax.' As long as you don't glance over your shoulder, the merchant will chase you with even better discounts."
Another netizen shared their "haggling flow" for accessories at the Yemen pavilion:
1. Merchant offers ¥3,000. Customer makes a pained face, "I didn't bring any money today."
2. Merchant immediately drops to ¥2,800.
3. Customer pulls out their phone, showing "¥2,000."
4. Merchant, not to be outdone, counters with ¥2,600.
5. Customer says, "This is a gift for my wife, but I really have to go home."
6. Merchant's final offer: ¥2,400. Deal!
"It's literally everyday Middle Eastern market drama playing out in Osaka!" one netizen quipped.
Hearing all this, countless Japanese netizens are now itching to visit the Yemen pavilion. This kind of cultural exchange is just too fascinating, and the chance to witness an Osaka vs. international haggling showdown? Priceless (www).
A friendly reminder: while the Yemen pavilion operates on an "no price tag, open negotiation" basis, it's best not to try haggling at other booths with clearly marked prices. You wouldn't want to cause any misunderstandings or trouble for the staff! The Osaka Expo runs until October 2025, so if you're looking for an authentic Arabian market vibe and a front-row seat to an "Osaka Bargaining Show," you know where to go!
via： togetter