When you hear the word "ice age," some people may imagine a harsh world covered in ice and snow, completely different from the present. However, academically, an ice age refers to a period when ice sheets, thick masses of ice covering the land, existed widely on a continental scale.
Ice ages, when the climate is cold and ice sheets grow large, are alternated with interglacial periods, when the climate is relatively warm and the ice sheets retreat, in cycles of about 100,000 years, so ice ages are not always cold. Even though we live in a year 2025, when ice sheets exist in Greenland and Antarctica, the year may look a little different if you understand that we are in the middle of an interglacial period, or in other words, a glacial period, and are suffering from extreme heat every day.
The special exhibition currently being held at the National Museum of Nature and Science, "Ice Age Exhibition – The World as Seen by Humanity 40,000 Years Ago" (July 12th to October 13th, 2025), focuses on the state of the Earth around 40,000 years ago, during the last ice age.
The exhibition will showcase the lives of humans and animals who lived in environments completely different from those of modern times, as well as changes in their environments, using the latest scientific knowledge and powerful exhibits, including the actual skulls of Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons, which will be on display in Japan for the first time, as well as skeletal specimens of extinct animals, ecological reconstruction models, and archaeological materials.
Entrance to the "Ice Age Exhibition"
Kenichi Shinoda, director of the National Museum of Nature and Science, who supervised the exhibition, said the following at the press preview:
"There are 8 billion human beings living in the world, but in reality we are all one species: Homo sapiens. There once were other species of humans in Europe and Asia, but by 12,000 years ago, only Homo sapiens remained. What kind of people and animals did our ancestors encounter after they left Africa 60,000 years ago? The main purpose of this exhibition is for visitors to experience where the animals that have become extinct lived and what they looked like. We hope that this exhibition will not only encourage visitors to reflect on our journey so far, but also give them an opportunity to think about how we should live as the environment changes due to global warming."
Long mammoth (living reconstruction model, skeletal specimen), Reiss Engelhorn Museum collection
Visitors are greeted at the venue by the majestic appearance of a woolly mammoth, which is said to have survived on the islands of Siberia and Alaska until thousands of years ago and is owned by the Reiss-Engelhorn Museum in Germany. This is one of the highlights of the exhibition and will catch your eye with its power, but don't forget to check out the cave lion rib with spear wounds, which is casually displayed just before it.
Cave lion rib with spear wounds [original], Mammoth Museum Siegsdorf This 48,000-year-old fossil rib was excavated in southern Germany. Cave lions, a close relative of modern lions, often appear in murals and sculptures, and are known to have been a common prey for Neanderthals and Homo sapiens (Cro-Magnons). The spear marks indicate that our human ancestors faced off against animals roaming the frigid ice age, and lived tough lives, making this a fitting opening for the exhibition, overflowing with romance.
At its coldest point 30,000 to 20,000 years ago, the high latitudes of Eurasia experienced cooling and the formation of vast steppe tundra (areas of cold grassland and permafrost). In this environment, grassland-dwelling mammoth fauna, including woolly mammoths, cave lions, woolly rhinoceroses, and steppe pythons, thrived. These fauna, along with the giant deer and cave bear that had survived in forests since the interglacial period, and many other extant species, formed the megafauna of the last glacial period.
Exhibition view. On the left is a giant elk (biological reconstruction model, full skeleton), from the Reiss Engelhorn Museum collection.
"Chapter 1: The Animals of Europe in the Ice Age" displays fossils, full-body skeletal specimens, and reconstructed models of megafauna, and explores the mystery of their rise and fall while explaining the ecology of extinct and living species. The animals, with their impressive bodies and long fur to withstand the cold, give an idea of the harsh environment of the time.
Steppe python (fossil skull [real]), owned by the Reiss Engelhorn MuseumCave bear (biological reconstruction model, full skeleton), Reiss Engelhorn MuseumWoolly rhinoceros (biological reconstruction model, full skeleton), Reiss Engelhorn Museum
Characterized by their long fur that looks as if they are covered in cloth and their large hooves, the musk ox is a surviving member of the mammoth group and a member of the goat subfamily. 20,000 years ago, a sudden warming of the Earth caused the steppe tundra to shrink, and species adapted to cold climates and grassland-dwelling species gradually disappeared. However, the musk ox and the Arctic fox were able to move their habitats into the Arctic Circle, and so they continue to survive to this day.
From left: Musk ox (stuffed specimen), Saiga antelope (reconstructed ecological model), Reiss Engelhorn Museum collection
The ancestors of Cro-Magnons originated in Africa about 300,000 years ago and spread across Eurasia about 60,000 years ago. At the time, another human species called Neanderthals lived in Europe, but they disappeared about 40,000 years ago.
Neanderthals had sturdy physiques and strong muscles, while Cro-Magnons had relatively slender builds and long limbs. At first glance, it seems that the former was better suited to surviving the harsh Ice Age, but what was it that determined the fates of the two? "Chapter 2: Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons" unravels this mystery with archaeological remains such as stone tools and ornaments, and the actual "La Ferrassie 1" and "Cro-Magnon 1," said to be the "world's most famous skulls" of two human species that lived in the same era, are on display in Japan for the first time.
"La Ferrassie 1" was discovered in 1909 at the La Ferrassie rock shelter in France, and is a nearly complete skeleton of a Neanderthal man who lived between 45,000 and 43,000 years ago. "Cro-Magnon 1" was also discovered in the Cro-Magnon rock shelter in France during road construction and is thought to be a man who lived between 28,000 and 27,000 years ago. Even a quick glance at the skulls on display reveals significant differences in the length of the skull, the width of the cheekbones, and the prominence of the brow bones, making this a luxurious opportunity to compare the two in person.
The discovery of La Ferrassie 1, bent over in the ground, is said to have provided evidence that Neanderthals, who were traditionally considered barbaric and culturally inferior to Cro-Magnons, had the practice of burying their dead.
Exhibition view
The corridor connecting Chapters 2 and 3 has a video exhibit that explains basic information about the Ice Age, which will be of great interest to beginners, as well as a corner where you can touch fossilized animal hair and teeth. It's fun to trace the unique contours of the teeth of woolly mammoths and aurochs and imagine what they ate and why they were shaped that way.
Chapter 3, "The Japanese Archipelago in the Ice Age," introduces the lives of humans who are believed to have arrived in Japan by approximately 38,000 years ago, and the lives of animals that lived at that time, including the Naumann's elephant, the Yabe giant deer, and the Japanese long-eared tiger ox, the three most extinct animals in Japan.
Exhibition view. In the foreground is a Naumann's elephant (full skeleton [replica]), Tochigi Prefectural Museum collection / (right incisor, left mandibular third molar, right femur fossil [original]), Lake Nojiri Naumann's Elephant Museum collectionMinatogawajin [original], University Museum, The University of Tokyo During the last glacial period, when the climate cooled significantly between 70,000 and 20,000 years ago, the development of ice sheets and glaciers fixed most of the Earth's water, causing sea levels in the Japanese archipelago to drop by more than 60 meters. The Japanese archipelago's appearance was said to be very different from today, with Hokkaido connected to the Eurasian continent and Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu forming a huge island known as Old Honshu Island. With such diverse environments stretching north and south across the Japanese archipelago as a backdrop, modern humans acquired a rich range of regional characteristics.
The comparative exhibit, showcasing the regional characteristics of stone tools from the middle of the Late Paleolithic period on the island of ancient Honshu, features items excavated from sites in Iwate, Osaka, and Kagoshima, but one item that particularly caught our eye was a stone blade excavated from the Suichoen site in Osaka.
The actual material, owned by the Habikino City Board of Education, shows the connection between the Kokufu-type knife-shaped stone tool and the Setouchi technique. In the Setouchi region, a technique called the "Setouchi technique" was developed to mass-produce flakes with strange shapes that spread out like wings from the point of impact when breaking a stone, unlike the stone blades used around the world. From spear tips produced using this Setouchi technique, distinctive stone tools known as "Kokufu-type knife-shaped stone tools" were made. The reason for their emergence is not clear, but it appears to have been a rare technique even on a global scale.
The second venue continued with the exhibit "Glacial-Interglacial Cycles and Vegetation," which included an enlarged model of a cute (?) heart-shaped pollen fossil, making it an exhibition with plenty to see right to the end.
Exhibition view. On the left is an enlarged model of cold-season pollen (Japanese white pine), owned by Lake Biwa Museum, Shiga Prefecture.Ambassador Abareru-kun appeared at the press preview
Abareru-kun, a history-loving entertainer who serves as the ambassador for the exhibition, also gave it high praise, saying, "If you look carefully from the entrance to the exit, you'll probably learn as much as 50 hours of science class." "There's nothing to waste! Everything is worth seeing!"
"It would also be great for independent research or learning during summer vacation. The Earth is currently facing various challenges, but I think the animals of the Ice Age who survived such harsh times have something in common with us today," he said enthusiastically, and promoted the audio guide he provided, saying, "If you watch it with my fun narration and explanations, you will learn 100 times more and it will be 100 times easier to understand."
The special exhibition "Ice Age: The World as Seen by Humanity 40,000 Years Ago" will be held until Monday, October 13th (national holiday).
Overview of the special exhibition "Ice Age: The World as Seen by Humanity 40,000 Years Ago"
venue
National Museum of Nature and Science (Ueno Park, Tokyo)
Dates
July 12, 2025 (Sat) – October 13, 2025 (Monday/holiday)
Opening hours
9:00 – 17:00 (last admission at 16:30)
Open at night
The museum will close at 7pm from August 8th (Friday) to 17th (Sunday) and October 10th (Friday) to 13th (Monday, national holiday) (last admission at 6:30pm).
*The permanent exhibition will be open until 6:00 PM from August 9th (Sat) to August 15th (Fri). At other times, the permanent exhibition will be open until 5:00 PM (admission until 30 minutes before closing time).
Adults/university students: 2,300 yen, elementary, junior high, and high school students: 600 yen
*Free for preschool children.
*Free admission for those with a disability certificate and one caregiver.
*If you have a student ID or other certificate, please present it when entering the venue.
For further details, please check the official website .
Organizer
National Museum of Nature and Science, TBS, TBS Gloudia, Tokyo Shimbun
"Blue Period Exhibition" and "Blue Period Digital Stamp Rally" to be held in Ueno! Get original goods drawn by Tsubasa Yamaguchi!
The Ueno Nakadori Shopping District Promotion Association will be holding an event called "Geisai x Inoichi x Blue Period" in collaboration with Tokyo University of the Arts' school festival "Geisai" and the popular manga "Blue Period" (by Yamaguchi Tsubasa), which is currently being serialized in "Monthly Afternoon." The event will run for 45 days from August 15th (Friday) to September 28th (Sunday).
This event will be packed with content, including the "Blue Period Exhibition" and "Blue Period Digital Stamp Rally" held in Ueno, where Tokyo University of the Arts, the setting for Blue Period, is located. Tsubasa Yamaguchi has also created a key visual for the event, featuring characters having fun in the Ueno shopping arcade. Prizes for the stamp rally and limited edition original goods will be sold using this original illustration. The "Blue Period Exhibition" will also feature an exhibition of works created by current Tokyo University of the Arts students.
[Event Information]
■ "Blue Period Exhibition in Ueno"
・Dates: Friday, August 15th to Sunday, September 28th, 2025
・Event time: 11:00-18:00
・Venue: NIGIWAI Base Ueno
Shiratorisha Building 3rd Floor, 4-6-7 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
・Contents: Panel exhibition, exhibition of works by Tokyo University of the Arts students, etc.
*Free admission
*Depending on the time of day, we may issue numbered admission tickets to reduce congestion.
■ "Blue Period Digital Stamp Rally"
Visit six locations and get your hands on original goods featuring original illustrations by Tsubasa Yamaguchi!
・Dates: Friday, August 15th to Sunday, September 28th, 2025
・Event time: 11:00-18:00
*Prize exchange times are the same (Prize exchange office: Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple)
・Participation fee: Free
・How to participate: Access the official website and download the smartphone app "furari" to participate.
・Stamp rally prize information
〇Prize 1 Original postcard *Available only to the first 2,000 people, while supplies last
A postcard featuring an original illustration of the characters and the background of Ueno Nakadori Shopping Street
■ Original amulets for sale
Acrylic charms featuring four original characters on sale
*This is an amulet that has been blessed by Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple, which is said to bring good fortune in "improvement in performing arts and the arts."
Sales period: From Friday, August 15th *Ends while supplies last
Sales location: Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple (4-6-2, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
NIGIWAI Base Ueno (3rd floor, Shiratorisha Building, 4-6-7 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
"Art Festival x Inoichi x Blue Period"
Date and time: August 15th (Friday) – September 28th (Sunday) 11:00-18:00
Organized by: Ueno Nakadori Shopping District Promotion Association
Official website: https://www.ueno-nakadoori.or.jp/geisaiinoichi2025/
Tourist hotel "Hotel Resol Ueno" Art gallery in the living lobby "Resol Gallery Ueno" Dates: Friday, August 1st to Sunday, August 31st, 2025. Free admission.
Hotel Resol Ueno (7-2-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo), a tourist hotel under the Resol Hotels brand operated by Resol Co., Ltd., will be holding a special exhibition of four works by artist Kyoko Ito in the art gallery in the living lobby, Resol Gallery Ueno, from Friday, August 1st to Sunday, August 31st, 2025.
As part of Hotel Resol Ueno's efforts to create a hotel rooted in the Ueno area, where art and the downtown area blend in harmony, the hotel launched an initiative in February last year to utilize the art gallery in the living lobby, "Resol Gallery Ueno," as a place to create encounters between up-and-coming artists who will disseminate the culture of the future and traveling guests. Since its launch, the gallery has featured artists who have been active in the art scene for many years, as well as up-and-coming artists. So far, the gallery has exhibited works from a variety of genres, including oil paintings and prints, and has become a place where travelers (tourists) can casually experience art, enjoyed not only by guests but also by the general public.
The tenth artist, Kyoko Ito, graduated from the Department of Oil Painting at Musashino Art University, and is based in Tokyo. She has been actively presenting her work in solo exhibitions, group exhibitions, and public exhibitions. She is currently a member of the Kokugakai and the Japan Artists Association.
This exhibition will feature four oil paintings based on the theme of "The Will to Live," which Ito has been working on for many years, that express the inner energy of humans, such as "the power to take action" and "the capacity to embrace." Please come and see these works that express the strength that resides in people and the preciousness of life.
At Resol Hotels, we will continue to weave irreplaceable travel stories through hotel operations that thoroughly meet the needs of all travelers (tourists).
Event Overview
Date: August 1st (Friday) – August 31st (Sunday), 2025
Venue: "Resol Gallery Ueno" art gallery in the living lobby of "Hotel Resol Ueno"
Artist: Kyoko Ito
Admission fee: Free *Non-guests are welcome to drop in as well.
Opening hours: [Hotel guests] Open 24 hours. / [Non-hotel guests] 10:00-20:00
Exhibited works:
"Execution Power" (2014, oil on canvas, size S30)
This is one of four works in the "Power to Live" series (power of execution, power of concentration, perseverance, tolerance).
Instead of just waiting, you can move forward by taking action one step at a time.
The ability to live and the ability to execute are very important in life.
This work is conscious of the dynamism of the brushstrokes, as if to appeal to the viewer about the strength of the will to live.
"Tolerance" (2014, oil on canvas, size S30)
This is one of four works in the "Wisdom for Life" series (ability to execute, ability to concentrate, perseverance, tolerance).
Caring for others, being supportive, and accepting in society.
This is also a vitality and tolerance that is very important in life.
The large U-shape envelops you in warmth.
This work emphasizes its intention by deliberately using a simple composition.
"Voice of the Earth" (2024, oil on canvas, size F4)
The motif is an abstract image of a large tree that has taken root in the earth and has been around for a long time.
This piece expresses this vitality through monochrome tones and accents of vermilion.
"Existence" (2025, oil on canvas, size F3)
This work uses abstract expression to express the significance of the existence of objects and people.
I hope that each person who sees the work will appreciate it in their own way.
Profile: Kyoko Ito
After graduating from the Department of Oil Painting, Faculty of Art and Design, Musashino Art University, he has continued to exhibit his works as an oil painter through solo and group exhibitions, mainly in Tokyo. In recent years, he has been creating works with the theme of "the will to live." He is currently a member of the Kokugakai and the Japan Artists Association.
■ Biography
1992 Graduated from Aoyama Gakuin University, Faculty of Letters
1996 Graduated from Musashino Art University, Faculty of Art and Design, Department of Oil Painting
1997 to present
<Solo Exhibition>
Nihonbashi Takashimaya 6th Floor Art Gallery (2006)
Ichibanboshi Gallery (Nihonbashi) ('98, '99, '00, '01, '05, '11, '14, '20)
Museum Nagatoro Ichibanboshi (2003)
Saegusa Gallery (Ginza) (1997)
Rei Gallery (Ginza) (2007)
Shirota Gallery (Ginza) (2012)
Gallery Azuma (Ginza) ('16'19'23) and others
<Group Exhibition>
KOKU 10/TEN (Ginza Gallery Himawari) ('11, '12, '13)
Kokugakai New Members Exhibition (Ginza Inoue Gallery) (2015)
Winter Aoi Exhibition (Exhibition by three members of the National Exhibition) (Gallery Himawari) ('21), etc.
<Exhibition>
National Exhibition (National Art Center, Tokyo) Exhibited every year since 1996 (except '98)
Showakai Exhibition (Nichido Gallery) ('97, '99)
Field of Now Exhibition (Japan Art Dealers Association) ('00, '01, '02)
The Rite of Spring (Foreign Art Dealers Association) ('17, '18, '20)
Ueno Royal Museum Grand Prize Exhibition ('98,'02)
EU JAPON Contemporary Art Exchange Exhibition (Paris, Luxembourg, etc.) (1998)
Kyoko Ito Exhibition (Homma Museum of Art, Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture) (2002)
Three Women Artists Exhibition (Homma Museum of Art) (2005)
Tokyo Art Fair (Tokyo International Forum) ('08, '09, '11) and others
Evening Star Exhibition (Ichibanboshi Gallery, Memorial to Tadanobu Hoshi) ('20)
Currently a member of the Kokugakai and the Japan Artists Association
<Collection of works>
Exhibition "Lafre Saitama" (Saitama New Urban Center, Saitama Prefecture)
"Homma Museum of Art" (Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture)
"Ichibanboshi Gallery" (Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
"Seikogaoka Hospital" (Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture)
Asahi Neurological Rehabilitation Hospital (Matsudo, Chiba Prefecture)
"Le Japon" (Restaurant, Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo)
"Granduo Kyodo II" (apartment in Kyodo, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo)
"Aoyama Gakuin High School" (Shibuya Ward, Tokyo)
"Yachiyo Wakaba Kindergarten" (Yachiyo City, Chiba Prefecture)
"Tamagawa Seigakuin" (Setagaya Ward, Tokyo)
"Hotel de L'Arpage" (Tateshina Plateau, Nagano Prefecture)
Marusan Heavy Machinery Construction Co., Ltd. (Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture)
About Resol Gallery Ueno
Resol Gallery Ueno, an art gallery located in the living lobby of Hotel Resol Ueno, exhibits a variety of artworks by up-and-coming artists that embody their passion and techniques.
The artistic experience unique to Ueno, a city of academia, offers travelers a spice that is different from a simple hotel stay.
The gallery alternates between special and permanent exhibitions every other month, providing new discoveries and opportunities for growth with every visit.
[About the special exhibition]
Resol Gallery Ueno provides a free gallery space for up-and-coming artists, including those who have been active in the art scene for many years, to exhibit their works.
As a base for travel where the city of Ueno meets art, we will create opportunities for visitors to encounter a variety of artworks, including "artworks that evoke images of travel, travelers, or travel destinations," "artworks that evoke images of downtown culture, climate, and history," "artworks that evoke a sense of academia," and "artworks that soothe the viewer's soul and inspire new discoveries and inspiration."
<Contact for inquiries from exhibitors>
Tel: 03-5325-9269 (Contact: Ito)
Email: ka.ito@resol.jp
[About the permanent exhibition]
(From left in the image)
The Sun and the Moon (2020, Keita Shimizu, acrylic paint on wooden panel, set of 2)
Panda (2020 Masaru Ishikawa and Keita Shimizu, acrylic paint on resin figure)
EDO, rotated 90° (2020 Keita Shimizu, printed on canvas)
Ueno (2020 Shimizu Keita, acrylic paint on wooden panel)
Profile: Keita Shimizu
Designer, design consultant
Born in Tokyo in 1974.
After completing a Master's degree at the Graduate School of Fine Arts, Tokyo University of the Arts, he began working as a designer based in Milan.
His inclusive designs, born from the global values he developed during his childhood in the United States and his life as a designer in Italy, have been highly praised both at home and abroad.Recently, he has not only worked on product design, but also on hotel concept development and corporate design.
Overview of Hotel Resol Ueno
◇Address: 7-2-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: 1 minute walk from JR Ueno Station, Asakusa Exit or Iriya Exit
◇Structure: Steel frame [10 floors above ground]
Number of rooms: 115 [107 Modernette (semi-double) rooms / 8 Twin rooms]
◇Official website: https://www.resol-hotel.jp/ueno/
Held at the National Museum of Western Art on Saturday, August 23rd. Everyone from small children to the elderly can enjoy art in a casual atmosphere!
The National Museum of Western Art will hold "Nigiyaka Saturday" on Saturday, August 23, 2025. "Nigiyaka Saturday" is a program that started in 2023 and will be held for the third time this year. This is a special event for this day only, where anyone from children to the elderly can enjoy the art works while casually chatting with each other, allowing them to enjoy the museum in their own way. There is no admission fee to view the permanent exhibition.
*This does not restrict conversations between customers on normal opening days.
This program was started with the hope that even customers who feel nervous because they have to be quiet in museums or find it difficult to go to exhibitions with children or elderly parents can enjoy the museum without any worries. On the day of the event, stroller parking areas will be set up in several places in the museum, and we will also provide a rest area with a kids' space and a baby rest room where customers with infants can change diapers, etc. We have also prepared events that allow people of all ages to enjoy viewing the artworks, whether it is their first time at a museum or a repeat visitor.
A free event you can enjoy! Part 1
■ Pay attention to the details of the work "Let's go find this piece!"
Permanent Exhibition *Free (Special exhibition "Picasso's Figures" is currently being held)
The permanent exhibition features masterpieces of Western paintings that you may have seen in textbooks, such as Monet and Renoir, and features a "Let's go find this piece!" project. Using postcards with cut-out pieces of the works as clues, you can search for which parts of which works in the exhibition room, and maybe even find your favorite work. You can enjoy art appreciation like a game by paying attention to the details of the works.
Free fun project! Part 2
■ The National Museum of Western Art is the subject! "Reading of the picture book 'The Story of the Museum at the Edge of the Forest'" Permanent exhibition 2F rest area *Free
A reading of the picture book "The Story of the Museum at the Edge of the Forest" (text: Kaori Nashiki, illustrations: Georg Hallensleben), which was released in August this year and is based on the National Museum of Western Art, will be held in the rest area with a kids' space. After the reading, why not go and see where the works featured in the picture book are exhibited in the exhibition room?
■ Enjoy the world of drawings! "Bingo with Drawings" special exhibition *Special exhibition admission fee required
At the ongoing special exhibition "Nationalmuseum Drawings Collection – From Renaissance to Baroque," we are offering a fun opportunity to become acquainted with the paintings, including a bingo game called "Drawings Bingo," which features sections of the exhibited works that are only available on the day, and handing out booklets with tips on how to appreciate the paintings.
=CAFÉ Suiren Museum Shop=
The museum will be open until 8:00 p.m. on the day of the event, so we recommend that you enjoy dinner at the on-site cafe restaurant, CAFÉ Suiren, during the relatively quiet hours in the evening, in addition to appreciating the art, or browse for your favorite goods and souvenirs at the museum shop. We recommend spending a relaxing summer evening at the museum.
CAFÉ Suiren Business Hours
Meals: 11:00-19:10 (last order)
Cafe: 10:00-19:30 (last orders)
The National Museum of Western Art is located in Ueno Park, right in front of the JR Ueno Station Park Exit ticket gate, making it easily accessible. It is open until 8pm every Friday and Saturday. You can visit the museum without worry, even on a hot summer day or after dark.
[National Museum of Western Art] 7-7 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo Access
Opening hours: 9:30-17:30 (until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays) *Last admission 30 minutes before closing *Closed on Mondays
Website: https://www.nmwa.go.jp/
For inquiries, please call Hello Dial 050-5541-8600
[National Museum of Western Art, Independent Administrative Institution] Press release
Thursday, July 17th, 2025 to Monday, August 4th, 10:00-18:00 (closes at 19:00) *Final day open until 16:00 (closes at 17:00) / Matsuzakaya Ueno Store, 6th floor event space
The studio set is coming! From July 17th (Thurs) to August 4th (Mon), Matsuzakaya Ueno will be hosting an exhibition based on the hugely popular TV program "World Mysteries Discovered!" (TBS Television). The exhibition will feature rare footage of the popular program, which has aired for about 1,700 episodes since 1986, as well as completely new interview footage of the cast and producers. The exhibition will also feature mysterious objects collected from around the world, along with intriguing anecdotes and quizzes. There will also be a special exhibition of the studio set where you can experience the familiar "Bossutto!" from the program!
Please enjoy the exhibition that satisfies your intellectual curiosity while enjoying the simulated experience of a world exploration trip.
Exhibition name: World Wonders Discovered! Exhibition in Ueno Date: July 17, 2025 (Thursday) → August 4, 2025 (Monday) Venue: Matsuzakaya Ueno Store, 6th floor event space Admission times: 10:00-18:00 (closes at 19:00) *Final day open until 16:00 (closes at 17:00) Admission fee (tax included): Adults and university students 1,400 (1,200) yen, junior and senior high school students 900 (700) yen, elementary school students 700 (500) yen
* ( ) indicates advance ticket price
*Free for preschool children
*Children of elementary school age or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian (18 years of age or older) when entering the venue.
*Parents will also need an admission ticket.
– Ticket sales –
Admission to this exhibition will be by designated time and date system for some of the dates listed below. Please note that tickets for each date and time are limited in number and may sell out. If any tickets remain, they will be sold at the venue on the day.
[Date and time specified admission classification]
July 17th (Thursday), July 19th (Saturday), July 20th (Sunday), July 21st (Monday, national holiday), July 26th (Saturday), July 27th (Sunday), August 2nd (Saturday), August 3rd (Sunday) in the morning
①10:00-11:00, ②11:00-12:00
*Advance tickets will be on sale at Lawson Ticket (L code: 35190) until Wednesday, July 16th.
*Same-day tickets will be on sale from Thursday, July 17th at the venue and at Lawson Ticket (https://l-tike.com/fushigi-hakken-ueno/) (※Links to external site).
*This exhibition does not include special offers for Daimaru Matsuzakaya credit card members, Daimaru Matsuzakaya app members of sapphire rank or above, Daimaru Matsuzakaya Friendship Club cards, Bridal Circle membership cards, shareholder benefits, Daimaru Matsuzakaya Gold Card customers, and customers with disability certificates, specific disease medical care recipient certificates, and specific medical expenses (designated intractable disease) recipient certificates. Thank you for your understanding.
*People with a disability certificate (physical disability certificate, mental health and welfare certificate, rehabilitation certificate), chronic childhood disease certificate, atomic bomb victim health certificate, specific disease medical care recipient certificate, or specific medical expenses (designated intractable disease) recipient certificate are also required to purchase an admission ticket. However, up to one accompanying person may enter free of charge.
*Re-entry is not permitted.
*An admission ticket is required to use the merchandise corner.
*Please be careful not to touch any of the exhibits, with some exceptions.
*If the venue is crowded, we may distribute numbered tickets and ask you to wait before entering.
*Please note that the contents of this exhibition may differ from those at other venues.
Organized by: World Wonders Discovery! Exhibition Executive Committee Cooperation: TBS Television/TV Man Union Planning and production: Neo Space
From the press release of Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co., Ltd.
The Ueno Royal Museum (Taito-ku, Tokyo) will be holding the first immersive exhibition, "Shosoin THE SHOW — Feel the miracle here and now," from Saturday, September 20th to Sunday, November 9th, where you can enjoy the 1,300-year history of Shosoin and the beauty of its treasures with your whole body.
Under the supervision of the Imperial Household Agency's Shoso-in Office, this exhibition will combine ultra-high definition images projected on a giant screen with replicas of the treasures from 1,300 years ago, providing an experience that will envelop you in the beauty of the treasures. In addition, you will be able to experience the miracle of the Shoso-in over the past 1,300 years with your whole body through the scent of the legendary fragrance "Ranjatai," which was so desired by Oda Nobunaga and others, which will be exhibited for the first time in history, and the sound of the actual treasures, such as the "Radenshitan Gogenbiwa."
In this release, we will reveal information about the Tokyo venue, as well as introduce some highlights.
■Tokyo Venue Event Overview
Exhibition title: Shosoin THE SHOW – Feel the miracle that is here now –
Venue: Ueno Royal Museum (Taito-ku, Tokyo)
Period: Saturday, September 20, 2025 to Sunday, November 9, 2025 *No closing days
Opening hours: 10:00am – 5:00pm (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
Organizers: The Ueno Royal Museum, "Shosoin THE SHOW" Executive Committee (Yomiuri Television, The Yomiuri Shimbun, TOPPAN, Kadokawa Media House), Nippon Television Network, BS Nippon Television
Supervised by: Shosoin Office of the Imperial Household Agency
Sponsor: Takemoto Piano
Technical cooperation: Epson Sales
Cooperation: Takasago International Corporation
For inquiries, please contact: 050-5541-8600 (Hello Dial)
*This exhibition will be held at the Osaka Museum of History from Saturday, June 14th to Sunday, August 24th.
■Tokyo venue ticket prices
Admission fee
Advance tickets
Same-day tickets
general
2,100 yen
2,300 yen
High school and university students
1,500 yen
1,700 yen
Elementary and junior high school students
900 yen
1,100 yen
*Free for preschool children.
*All prices include tax.
*People with a disability certificate and up to one caregiver will be charged half the same day rate.
*University, high school, and junior high school students must present their student ID.
* Advance tickets are scheduled to go on sale in early August. Details will be announced on the officialwebsite as soon as they are decided.
[Objective of the event]
Shosoin is a "miraculous treasure trove" that has protected and handed down 9,000 treasures for nearly 1,300 years. The treasures, which show ancient exchanges between the East and the West, mainly from the Nara period, have been preserved to this day thanks to the efforts of people who tried to protect the treasures, such as the "Imperial Seal" system, which could only be opened with the Emperor's permission, and continuous repairs and inspections. Due to its miraculous state of preservation, it is an irreplaceable existence that is unique in the world.
This exhibition will explore new charms of the treasures that cannot be seen simply by seeing them in person, by using replicas made using the same materials and techniques as the originals, as well as high-definition 3D digital data that accurately captures even the most minute details difficult to see with the naked eye.
Additionally, the scent of the legendary fragrant wood "Ranjatai," known to have been desired by the Sengoku warlord Oda Nobunaga, has been reproduced for the first time based on scientific research. Visitors to the venue will be able to experience the scent that captivated this great ruler of Japan.
Highlight 1: Get up close and personal with the treasures in ultra-high definition
All images are from the Osaka exhibition.
The latest technology is used to scan the treasures, and ultra-high definition images are then projected onto a giant screen. In this immersive space, you can fully enjoy the beautiful details and textures of the treasures' designs that cannot be seen with the naked eye, along with the "replicas" on display. In addition, you can experience the "story" of Shosoin through a story video about the Shosoin and its treasures.
Highlight 2: The first ever reproduction of the scent of Ranjatai
Exhibition view at Osaka venue
Through detailed scientific research, including component analysis, we will be exhibiting the scent of the world's most famous fragrance, "Ranjatai," recreated for the first time in history. Ranjatai's official name is "Oujukukou." It is a magnificent piece of fragrant wood measuring 156.0cm in length and weighing 11.6kg, and still bears traces of where it was cut by Oda Nobunaga and his men. This exhibition will finally reveal the mystery of its fragrance.
Highlight 3: Experience the brilliance and beauty of 1,300 years ago through the "Reproduction"
Imitation mother-of-pearl box (Exhibition scene at Osaka venue)Imitation mother-of-pearl and rosewood five-stringed biwa (Exhibition scene at the Osaka venue)
These "reproductions" are made using the same materials and techniques as the actual treasures, recreating the original appearance of treasures from 1,300 years ago. Looking at these, you can see how the treasures of that time were made with such high level of skill and precision. This exhibition features reproductions of famous treasures such as the "Mother-of-pearl Shisango Biwa" and the "Mother-of-pearl Box." Along with the brilliance of the treasures of that time, images and commentary will reveal the beauty behind the scenes and the superb craftsmanship.
*The actual Shosoin treasures will not be on display.
Highlight 4: New creations by contemporary artists
Artists at the forefront of the fields of fashion, music, photography and ceramics have created works inspired by Shosoin and its treasures, which will be shown for the first time in this exhibition.
Collaborating Artists
[You can enjoy the smartphone audio guide for free]
The audio guide will be guided by voice actor Hiroshi Kamiya, who has worked on many popular anime. He will guide you through a timeless story of Shosoin, with special commentary by a researcher from the Imperial Household Agency's Shosoin Office.
*This is a free guide that you can use on your own smartphone or tablet. You will need to scan a QR code when entering the park to access it, so you will need a data connection to use it.
*This may not be available on some devices.
*Please bring your own earphones or headphones to enjoy the experience.
From the press release by the Shosoin "THE SHOW" Public Relations Office
July 19th (Sat) – October 5th (Sun) 2025 at Ueno Geidai Art Plaza (free admission)
Geidai Art Plaza ( https://artplaza.geidai.ac.jp/ ) is a gallery operated on the campus of Tokyo University of the Arts (Ueno, Taito-ku) as a collaborative project between Shogakukan and Tokyo University of the Arts, with the concept of "Make every day a special day with art." From Saturday, July 19, 2025, a special exhibition, "Geidai Art Plaza Art Award Winners Invitation Exhibition," will be held. This exhibition will display and sell works by winners of the Geidai Art Plaza Art Award, which is held once a year for all students at Geidai. Admission is free, and photography is generally allowed. Don't miss it.
Special exhibition "Geidai Art Plaza Art Award Winners Invitation Exhibition" to be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025
The Geidai Art Plaza Art Award (formerly the Geidai Art Plaza Grand Prize) will be celebrating its 19th anniversary in 2024. Its recognition is increasing year by year, and the number of customers who look forward to this exhibition every year is also increasing. This year, we will hold an exhibition that will display new works by award winners of various ages, from current students to graduates who are actively working as artists.
Exhibition name: Exhibition "Geidai Art Plaza Art Award Winners Invitation Exhibition"
Venue: Geidai Art Plaza (Tokyo University of the Arts, Faculty of Fine Arts, 12-8 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
Period: July 19th (Sat) – October 5th (Sun) 2025
First term: July 19th (Sat) – August 24th (Sun) / Second term: August 30th (Sat) – October 5th (Sun)
Admission fee: Free
Business hours: 10:00-18:00
Closed: Mondays
*Business days and times may change. Please check the official website or SNS for the latest information.
What is Geidai Art Plaza? – Make every day a special day with art –
The Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai) has produced many top artists, and the gallery "Geidai Art Plaza" exhibits and sells works by faculty, students, and graduates of the university. It is one of the precious places on the Ueno campus of the university that is open to the public throughout the year. It began operation in 2018 as a collaborative project between Shogakukan and the University of the Arts.
Currently, exhibitions with different themes are held every one or two months. Each special exhibition features 10 to 50 artists, who bring together works that are expressed using the diverse techniques and approaches unique to Tokyo University of the Arts, including oil painting, Japanese painting, sculpture, crafts, and design.
Scenes from the second half of the special exhibition "Geidai Zoo: Welcome to the art zoo!" to be held from March to May 2025 https://artplaza.geidai.ac.jp/column/27694
The store has a permanent exhibition corner called "LIFE WITH ART" that mainly features art that fits into daily life, such as tableware and accessories. The store also sells several "Drawing T-shirts" (commonly known as Doro T-shirts), which are one-of-a-kind items that have been drawn by artists from Tokyo University of the Arts.
Admission to the Geidai Art Plaza is free. Taking photos and sharing them on social media is also welcome. We aim to be a place where anyone, not just art fans, can easily experience art.
Exhibition view of the permanent corner "LIFE WITH ART"
Drawing T-shirts exhibition view
The official online shop, "Tableware and T-shirt Store," is scheduled to open in September 2024. In addition to one-of-a-kind tableware, cutlery, teapots, tea bowls, and other items made by Tokyo University of the Arts artists, the store also sells a variety of original goods.
■ Access
Nearest station: JR Ueno Station (Park Exit), Uguisudani Station, approx. 10 minute walk
About 10 minutes walk from Nezu Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
About 15 minutes walk from Ueno Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
About 15 minutes walk from Keisei Ueno Station on the Keisei Electric Railway
Take Toei Bus Route 26 (Kameido – Ueno Park) to Yanaka bus stop and walk for about 3 minutes
*There is no parking lot, so please refrain from coming by car.
The latest collaboration and merchandise information is also released
The National Museum of Western Art (Ueno Park, Tokyo) will be holding the "Nationalmuseum of Fine Arts and Music Drawings Collection – From Renaissance to Baroque" exhibition starting tomorrow, July 1st (Tuesday). Kanato Tsukishiro, the audio guide navigator for the exhibition, attended the press preview held prior to the opening and spoke about the appeal of the exhibition.
Tsukishiro, who is serving as an audio guide navigator for the first time, said, "I regularly visit the National Museum of Western Art and I thought it would be great to work as an audio guide navigator for an exhibition, so I was very happy to be asked to do this. I recorded it with the hope that it would make people feel as if they were touring the exhibition with us."
After touring the exhibition, Tsukishiro expressed his surprise, saying, "I didn't know much about sketches, but when I saw them in person, I was surprised at how colorful and warm they were." He introduced Cornelius Visser's Sleeping Dog, exhibited in Chapter 4, "The Netherlands," as his favorite piece, saying, "You can almost hear the dog's breathing."
Furthermore, it has been decided that collaboration goods between the official character of this exhibition, "Sunyako" (nicknamed Sunyako), and Tsukishiro will be on sale! Regarding this collaboration, Tsukishiro said, "We are currently waiting for the original illustration from Sonishi Kenji-sensei, so please look forward to the finished product."
The collaboration goods are scheduled to go on sale in August. Details will be announced on the official website and official SNS accounts from time to time.
Exhibition view of "Nationalmuseum of Sweden Drawing Collection Exhibition – From Renaissance to Baroque"Exhibition view of "Nationalmuseum of Sweden Drawing Collection Exhibition – From Renaissance to Baroque"Exhibition view of "Nationalmuseum of Sweden Drawing Collection Exhibition – From Renaissance to Baroque"
❖Collaboration with "Artoon!" ,a group of art creators from Tokyo University of the Arts!
The sketch exhibition is a collaboration with "Artoon!", a rapidly growing group of art creators that creates entertainment content that allows people to experience the fun and depth of art, with the concept of "bringing art closer to people."
A special program was streamed on the YouTube channel "Artoone!" on Saturday, June 28th, in which members tried their hand at drawing using various art materials, in line with the theme of the exhibition, "Drawing."
In addition, limited edition novelty stickers featuring the original "Artoon!" logo for this exhibition will also be produced!
This limited edition design is a collaboration between the original "Artoon!" logo, drawn in pencil by Artoon! member Hayashi, and the exhibition's official character, "Suneko (nicknamed Sunyako)." The stickers will be distributed to the first 5,000 customers who spend 4,000 yen or more (including the exhibition catalogue) at the National Museum of Western Art's special exhibition shop.
*This offer will end as soon as stock runs out.
*Sticker image
❖Official exhibition catalogue
Sales price: 2,500 yen (tax included) Size: B5 variant (250mm x 190mm), 180 pages, softcover
In addition to full-color images of all 84 works in this exhibition, including works by Dürer, Rubens, and Rembrandt, the book also includes essays and commentary by experts. This book introduces the charm of the carefully selected collection of drawings from the Renaissance to the Baroque. You can enjoy the works on display in Italy, France, Germany, and the Netherlands in greater depth with this book.
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
❖Latest merchandise information
"SUO RING Sleeping Dog" 4,180 yen (tax included)
Perfect for hot summer days!
The SUO RING, which cools the base of the neck and effectively cools the entire body, is decorated with cute dogs based on Cornelius Visser's "Sleeping Dog."
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
"Drawing Collection Exhibition x The Hamburgo Original Toothbrush" 1,100 yen (tax included)
In fact, Sweden is a leader in cavity prevention!
For this exhibition, we are collaborating with THE HUMBLE CO., a Swedish toothbrush brand launched to address oral care and environmental issues!
The bamboo toothbrush, a symbol of The Hamburgo, is engraved with a dog motif based on Cornelius Visser's "Sleeping Dog" and the exhibition title.
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
There are also many other goods with the "Sleeping Dog" motif!
"Sleeping Dog Suyasuya Mascot BC" 2,750 yen (tax included)"Purse" 1,760 yen (tax included)"Pillowcase" 2,970 yen (tax included) *All images are for illustrative purposes only
"Sketch Collection Exhibition x Fuglen Coffee Original Drip Bag" 432 yen each (tax included)
Collaboration with Fuglen Coffee Roasters, a popular Norwegian coffee brand!
We will be selling drip bags in original packaging featuring works featured in this exhibition, such as Giovanni da Udine's "Flying Sparrow."
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
"Beef Study" Beef Curry: 972 yen (tax included)
In commemoration of Abraham Bloemaert's "Study of a Cow," beef curry will be on sale in original packaging for this exhibition!
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
"Candy Bottle" 972 yen (tax included)
These original candies are inspired by Jan Bruegel the Elder's Woodland with Travellers and Cowherds.
*Image is for illustrative purposes only.
There will also be original merchandise featuring the exhibition's official character, Suneko (nicknamed Sunyako)!
We sell original Sunyako goods such as postcards, acrylic key chains, and stickers!
Suneko postcards (4 types) 198 yen each (tax included) Suneko acrylic keychains (blind packaging, 6 types) 550 yen each (tax included) Suneko die-cut stickers (blind packaging, 4 types) 550 yen each (tax included) Suneko clear file (A4) (1 type) 550 yen (tax included)
*The above is not a special collaboration item between "Tsukishiro Kanato x Suneko".
Details of the collaboration goods will be announced on the official website and official SNS accounts soon.
❖Special collaboration goods between "Tsukishiro Kanato x Suneko" will go on sale midway through the exhibition!
In response to numerous requests, we have decided to sell special collaboration goods featuring Tsukishiro Kanato, a former top star of the Takarazuka Revue's Moon Troupe, who will be the audio guide navigator for this exhibition, and the exhibition's official mascot, Suneko (nicknamed Sunyako).
Based on Tsukishiro's idea, Kenji Sonishi, the creator of "Suneko", has drawn a new illustration of a cute girl modeled after Tsukishiro and Suneko spending their daily lives together. Special goods using this illustration are scheduled to go on sale in mid-August, which is the middle of the exhibition period.
The merchandise will also subtly feature the "SUNEKO × KANATO TSUKISHIRO" logo as proof of the collaboration.
Further details will be announced on the exhibition's official website and official social media accounts. Please look forward to it!
❖Tie-up menu with the restaurant "CAFÉ Suiren" at the National Museum of Western Art
To coincide with this exhibition, a special exhibition menu will be available at CAFÉ Suiren, a restaurant inside the National Museum of Western Art.
We will be serving a course menu incorporating seasonal ingredients in the Swedish image of the exhibition, limited to 12 meals per day . Please enjoy it along with the exhibition.
Contents: Assorted appetizers, broad bean soup, pan-fried veal and pressed eggplant, blueberry mousse and butterfly pea mousse, lingonberry ice cream, coffee or tea
○Price: 3,900 yen (tax included)
*This menu is available from July 1st to September 28th.
*Closed on the same days as the museum is closed
Event Outline
Exhibition title | Nationalmuseum of Sweden Drawing Collection – From Renaissance to Baroque
Dates｜Tuesday, July 1, 2025 – Sunday, September 28, 2025
Closed on Mondays, July 22 (Tue), September 16 (Tue)
*Open on July 21 (Monday, holiday), August 11 (Monday, holiday), August 12 (Tuesday), September 15 (Monday, holiday), and September 22 (Monday)
Opening hours: 9:30 – 17:30 (until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays) *Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Venue | National Museum of Western Art [Ueno Park, Tokyo] 7-7 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0007
Organized by: National Museum of Western Art, Yomiuri Shimbun
Planning cooperation | National Museum of Sweden
Sponsored by | DNP Dai Nippon Printing
Supported by: Embassy of Sweden, All Nippon Airways, TOKYO MX, Foundation for the Promotion of Western Art
Exhibition official website | https://drawings2025.jp
Exhibition Official X/Instagram | @drawings2025_ex
Inquiries | 050-5541-8600 (Hello Dial)
[Nationalmuseum of Sweden Drawing Collection Exhibition – From Renaissance to Baroque Public Relations Office] Press release
~This is an educational event that fosters children's creativity through music and STEAM education. There will also be food truck stalls and artist performances~
The Taito Ward Committee of the Tokyo Junior Chamber of Commerce (Public Interest Incorporated Association) will be holding an experiential event at Ueno Park Takenodai Square (Fountain Square) on June 27th (Friday) and 28th (Saturday) in order to foster creativity and spread STEAM education, where participants can experience STEAM education through music, programming, and more .
On June 27th (Friday) as a pre-event announcement project, there will be a live concert by the idol group SAKURADOLL , and on the 28th (Saturday) there will be an opening concert by various artists, a free live concert by singer-songwriter Megu Tohsaka , a signing session and a special event, as well as various STEAM experiences and music production experiences for elementary school students in Taito Ward.
In addition, 35 food trucks will gather over the two days, making it an event that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
[Information on Music Production Experience, STEAM Experience, and Visitor Benefits]
After participating in each STEAM experience session, children who answer a questionnaire will receive a gift ticket to Hanayashiki!
・Music production experience (pre-registration required): gift for everyone
・Robot workshop, invention idea workshop (optional participation): Gifts for the first 180 people
In addition, 1,000 visitors who answer a questionnaire via QR codes posted around the venue will be entered into a lottery to win sweets from Koikeya Co., Ltd.!
Business overview
Event name
STEAM FESTIVAL ~A workshop to connect the future with sound and color~
Date and Time
Friday, June 27, 2025 11:00-20:00
Saturday, June 28, 2025 10:00-18:00
Location
Ueno Park Takenodai Square (Fountain Square)
Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo
Tokyo Junior Chamber of Commerce Taito Ward Committee
Supporting Organizations
Taito City, Taito City Board of Education, Taito Branch of the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Cooperating Organizations
UUUM Co., Ltd., GMP Co., Ltd., STAR SEARCH LABEL Co., Ltd., Taito Ward Elementary School PTA Association, Toyo University Bbooth (in alphabetical order)
Sponsoring companies
Ichikawa Kosan Co., Ltd., eNMUSUBi Co., Ltd., O-Techno Corporation Co., Ltd., Ogatomo Co., Ltd., Kanto Kitack Sales Co., Ltd., The Association for Supporting Active Workers, Koikeya Co., Ltd., Sanzendo Co., Ltd., Korean Youth Chamber of Commerce in Japan, CIC Co., Ltd., CU Co., Ltd., Johoku Communication Service Co., Ltd., Tokiwa Co., Ltd., No.1 Partner Co., Ltd., Nodoraku Co., Ltd., Hanayashiki Co., Ltd., Fis Innovation Co., Ltd., Fujita Construction Co., Ltd., Prime Financial Partners Co., Ltd., Bonds Trust Co., Ltd., Uniplus Co., Ltd. (in alphabetical order)
Time Schedule
June 27th (Friday) 11:00-20:00
time
content
11:00～
Food truck area opens
Berabou Edo Taiga Drama Museum PR
18:30～
SAKURADOLL Artist Live Performance
*SAKURADOLL live performance times are subject to change.
●Saturday, June 28th 10:00-18:00
time
content
10:00～
Food truck area opens
Sunaho Kaneda, General Host of Ami Yuki's Opening Live
10:30～
10:30-13:25
Robot Workshop
PALM Music Production Experience
14:00-15:25
Megu Tohsaka Music Production Class
16:30～
Megu Tohsaka Free Live & Autograph Session & Special Event
Artist Profile
SAKURADOLL
With the theme of "Made in Japan to the world," SAKURADOLL will bring a new wind of Japanese idol culture to the world and make cherry blossoms bloom all over the world with their music and performances. From the world-famous anime that Japan is proud of to global idols, they aim to build a new history in entertainment with passion and brilliance and to convey the charm of Japan on the global stage.
Megu Tohsaka
The No. 1 popular music creator/singer-songwriter in the short video world. After his video "I'm mad at the broken butter!", posted at the end of February 2022, went viral on TikTok and YouTube Shorts, his "I'm mad!" series, which sings about minor stresses in daily life to a light rhythm, became a huge hit with over 600 million cumulative views on social media. In recognition of his achievements, at the end of the same year, he won the TikTok Awards 2022 Music Division Grand Prize, which is given to the most active music creator in the year. "The fireworks will start soon," released in the summer of 2023, was a long-running hit with over 100 million cumulative views, thanks in part to the influence of collaboration projects with popular influencers. "Because I'll see you tomorrow," released in January 2024, had over 150 million views on social media-related videos and ranked 7th weekly and 3rd daily in the YouTube Shorts song usage rankings. Released in December 2024, "Even if I get a lot of red marks every day" has been viewed over 1 million times in just one month since its release, and the number of times the sound source has been used in short videos has exceeded 10,000, spreading the song at high speed, attracting attention for its self-production using SNS. His activities are not limited to SNS, but he has also appeared on numerous TV and radio programs. His piano playing skills are also highly regarded, and he has appeared three times on Fuji TV's "TEPPEN ~Piano Division~", a show that features the king of entertainment skills. He is currently appearing as a semi-regular on Untouchable Yamazaki Hiroya's regular radio program, NACK5's "Enekuru presents Mainichi Zakiyama". A singer-songwriter with a voice that melts into your ears, catchy lyrics that stay in your head once you hear them, and melodies that are familiar to Japanese people.
PALM
In junior high school, he discovered club music through his older sister's influence and started his career as an artist. At the same time, he picked up the bass through his older brother's influence, and began his career as an artist in earnest during high school. He actively participated in planning his own parties and live events, building a foundation as an artist. After that, he started DTM due to his interest in internet labels, and worked as an artist at subculture events based at Niigata clubs "Planet" and "Yellow Pigs". He performed with famous artists such as Okadada and i-dep, and his skills were widely recognized. He began composing in earnest when he entered university, and performed with a variety of artists. He is currently active as a musician. He has released six singles so far, and the music videos are available on YouTube. He is breathing new life into the scene with his unique style.
Sunaho Kaneda
Dreaming of musicals, she entered the entertainment industry at the age of 10. She began studying singing and acting, and began full-fledged vocal lessons in 2015. In 2018, she debuted as part of the idol group "Spiritant". From 2020, she began performing as "Jewel☆Ciel", and her 4th single "Bokura wa" reached 6th place on the Oricon Daily Ranking. In 2021, she changed her name to "gran☆ciel" and reached 1st place on the Oricon Daily Ranking with "Message!". She began her solo career in April 2022. In December 2023, she released the single "Yume ga Kanau Made". She is actively working in many areas, including stage performances, commercials, and YouTube, making use of her natural brightness, clear singing voice, and solid singing ability.
Ami Yuki
He has been familiar with music since he was a child and has been playing the electric organ for 25 years. He plays a variety of songs from pop songs to jazz, and has recently expanded his range of activities as a keytar player. While he is active as a photographer, he is also a multi-talented person who has published photo books as a model and works as a host.
Background
In today's rapidly changing society, there is a demand for developing human resources who can deal with complex issues by nurturingcreativity,problem-solving skills, and teamwork .
This time, in addition tomusic production experiencesandlive performances , the event will combineSTEAM education with workshops onprogrammingandinventions . The project aims to encourage participants to identify various problems and acquire the means to solve themcreatively .
STEAM education is a cross-disciplinary education that combines the initials S for Science , T for Technology , E for Engineering , A for Art , and M for Mathematics .
Generally, experience sessions where people can learn about STEAM education are often held indoors, and the number of visitors may be limited.
Therefore, this time, in order to provide more people with an opportunity to experience STEAM education, the event will be held at the easily accessible Takenodai Square (Fountain Square) in Ueno Park .
For the music production experience, instructors will include artist PALM and popular YouTuber Megu Tohsaka , and participants will learn about the concepts and fun of music production using an iPad.
In addition, the invention idea workshop encourages participants to develop their creativity by thinking about what kind of inventions would be useful to the world.
In addition, there will be live performances by various artists and many food trucks.
This is not only a musicandSTEAM education experience, but also a free event that anyone can enjoy .
Organizers
About the Organizing Organization: The Tokyo Junior Chamber International (Tokyo JC), a public interest incorporated association (hereafter referred to as "Tokyo Junior Chamber International"), was founded in 1949 (Showa 24) at a time when the scars of war were still deeply etched in the city and in the hearts of its people, by young people who shared the same aspiration that "it is the job of young people to rebuild a new Japan."
Since then, the Tokyo Junior Chamber has promoted the philosophy of "creating a bright and prosperous society" and has been carrying out various activities and campaigns.
The Tokyo Junior Chamber of Commerce is made up of members who have joined of their own free will, regardless of race, nationality, sex, occupation or religion.
The Japan Junior Chamber bases its activities on "personal training," "service to society," and "friendship with the world." It promotes mutual enlightenment and interaction among members, fosters public spirit, and works to contribute to the development of society through collaboration with the local community, actively addressing social issues.
Having undergone various practical training at the Junior Chamber, students are active in a wide range of fields, and many of our graduates, including those who graduate after turning 40, have gone on to become active leaders in their local communities and have also gone on to enter the political and business worlds.
Contact Us
〒101-0054
3-1 Kanda Nishikicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Ohm Building New Wing 8th Floor
TEL:03-6285-1515 (Secretariat)
FAX:03-6285-1516 (Secretariat)
Tokyo Junior Chamber of Commerce
Taito Ward Committee Person in charge Kodai Kaneko
Email address: akhrknk@gmail.com
[Tokyo Junior Chamber of Commerce, Public Interest Incorporated Association] Press release
The "Five Great Ukiyo-e Artists – Utamaro, Sharaku, Hokusai, Hiroshige, Kuniyoshi" exhibition , which brings together masterpieces by the five biggest stars of the golden age of ukiyo-e, has opened at the Ueno Royal Museum (Ueno, Tokyo). The exhibition will run until Sunday, July 6, 2025.
At the gallery talk held prior to the press preview, Noriko Yamamoto, curator at the Kawasaki Ukiyo-e Gallery and author of the exhibition catalogue, took to the stage. She explained the highlights of the exhibition, which we will introduce below along with a look at the exhibition.
Exhibition view
Five artists who made their name with ukiyo-e, Japan's most popular art form that reached its golden age during the Tenmei and Kansei periods, are Kitagawa Utamaro, Toshusai Sharaku, Katsushika Hokusai, Utagawa Hiroshige, and Utagawa Kuniyoshi . This exhibition will display around 140 pieces, focusing on their masterpieces, which reached the pinnacle of their respective fields, such as portraits of beautiful women, actors, and landscapes, and will convey the distinctive features and appeal of their artistic expression.
Chapter 1: Kitagawa Utamaro: Thoughtful Women
The exhibition is divided into five chapters, each focusing on one artist, and the first to appear is Kitagawa Utamaro .
Kitagawa Utamaro, "A Picture of People Cooling Down on and Under the Bridge at Ryogoku" (Picture of People Cooling Down on and Under the Bridge) circa the late Kansei period (1795-1800)
Utamaro is known as an artist who was discovered by Edo's most famous producer, Tsutaju (Tsutaya Jusaburo), who is also active in the historical drama "Berabou – Tsutaju Eika no Yumebanashi" currently being broadcast on NHK.
He teamed up with Tsutaju and introduced the "Okubi-e" style, which featured a close-up of the upper body of a person, a style that was used in paintings of actors at the time, to the painting of beautiful women. He became a leading figure in the painting of beautiful women, and took the world by storm with his works that depicted the graceful gestures and thoughts of women.
Kitagawa Utamaro, Five Beauties Competing for Love, The Bride of Hyogoya, circa 1795-96
The exhibition focuses on portraits of beautiful women depicting everyday scenes, such as Five Beauties Competing for Charm: The Flower Wife of Hyogoya, which depicts a courtesan with disheveled hair reading a letter, rather than a woman dressed in elegant attire.
In the "Lessons for Parents" series, which contains morals for women, a "bakuren" (a carefree woman) appears, dressed in sloppy clothes and sipping alcohol. Bijin-ga (portraits of beautiful women) tend to depict the beauties of the time, such as the intelligent and beautiful courtesans who were the object of common people's admiration, or the popular poster girls of the town, but Utamaro, in a sense, used women with the polar opposite attributes as his models without distinction.
Kitagawa Utamaro, "Lessons for Parents: A Guide to the Popular Culture" (1802)
Yamamoto commented, "Utamaro's portraits of beautiful women are often depicted as ideal images of women, but he was actually also good at depicting these villainous women."
Utamaro was interested in the lifestyles and customs of women of all kinds, and used them as his subject matter, covering them all: an older sister watching over her younger brother playing at home with a smile, a female diver resting on the beach, a mountain witch nursing her child, etc. He said that a major feature of Utamaro's work is that he presents the charms of such diverse women with a rich expressiveness that allows us to imagine the story behind them, right down to the tip of a finger.
Kitagawa Utamaro, "Furyuko Treasure Combine Great Karakuri" circa 1802
By the way, in the letter illustrated in the aforementioned "Five Beauties Competing for Love, the Flower Wife of Hyogoya," there is a sentence that begins with "I hate to imitate, I don't copy, I am a self-made artist," which gives a glimpse of Utamaro's firm pride as a painter of beautiful women. If you can read cursive writing, please take a look.
Chapter 2: Toshusai Sharaku – The impact of actor paintings
Next up was Toshusai Sharaku , who, like Utamaro, was discovered by Tsutaju and became one of the artists who colored the Golden Age of Ukiyo-e. He produced around 145 nishiki-e prints in the ten months between May 1794 and January of the following year, but then suddenly vanished from the public eye, making him a mysterious figure whose background is largely unknown.
He produced many unique and impactful large-headed portraits of actors, and the period in which he produced them can be divided into four periods according to the performance dates of the plays he covered, allowing for a clear classification of style and specifications. More than half of the Sharaku works on display in this exhibition are large-headed portraits from the particularly popular first period, and it is said to be a very rare opportunity to see so many of his works gathered together in one place.
In the foreground is Toshusai Sharaku's "The Second Generation of Arashi Ryuzo and the Moneylender Ishibe Kanekichi" (1794)
Yamamoto cited "The Second Generation Arashi Ryuzo's Moneylender Ishibe Kanekichi," one of Sharaku's first works, as a clear example of the appeal of his work.
Arashi Ryuzo II was an actor who specialized in playing villains, and in this painting he is playing the role of a moneylender. Noting the actor's unique realistic depictions, achieved through a keen eye for observation, such as the movement of his eyes as he rolls up his sleeves and makes a spectacular pose, the tense movements of each of his fingers, and the wrinkles around his straight mouth, he said, "In an era when there were no zoom cameras or telescopes, it's amazing how much detail he was able to depict. Sharaku was about trying to accurately capture a single moment of an actor's performance."
In Onoe Matsusuke's Matsushita Sake Brewery , the depiction of the fallen ronin's long, tousled hair and hollow, sunken eyes stands out. By using dark colors throughout the painting, it is not only possible to express the loneliness of poverty, but also to depict the tragic fate of his imminent death.
Toshusai Sharaku's "Miyagino of Nakayama Tomisaburo" 1794
At the time, other artists idealized actors, but Sharaku placed emphasis on realism and a sense of presence as if watching the stage up close, rather than on beauty, such as by drawing the masculine bone structure of even female actors. His realistic paintings convey an energy not found in other actor paintings, but his excessive pursuit of authenticity drew criticism from the actors themselves and their fans at the time, and it is said that this was the reason why his career was short-lived.
From the left, Toshusai Sharaku's "Daidoyama Ring-entering: Tanikaze, Raiden, Hanachōyama, Tatsugaseki, Miyagino" and "Daidoyama Ring-entering: Daidoyama Bungoro" from 1794 (Kansei 6)
Chapter 3 "Katsushika Hokusai – Raging Blue"
The third person is Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849). His name spread throughout Europe during the Japonism movement that occurred in the second half of the 19th century, and he was the only Japanese person to be selected in a recent survey by the American photo magazine LIFE of "The 100 Most Important People in the World Who Have Made the Most Important Achievements in the Last 1,000 Years." It is no exaggeration to say that he is the most famous Japanese painter in the world.
Katsushika Hokusai, Kanadehon Chushingura, Act 10, around 1806
During his 90-year life, Hokusai not only illustrated woodblock prints, but also worked in a wide range of fields, including nishiki-e, surimono prints, and hand-painted illustrations, and continued to paint everything in the universe, not just landscapes, flowers, birds, and people. Just looking at the extraordinary drawing skills of Hokusai's representative picture book , "Hokusai Manga," which is said to contain a total of 4,000 pictures, you can get a sense of the incredible artistic career of a man who devoted himself to painting for over 70 years, eventually calling himself "the crazy artist manji."
Hokusai was in his 70s when he produced his well-known Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji series, which captures Mount Fuji from various perspectives, but when we look at the works on display from before to after this period, we can see that the colors have become deeper and richer. This is probably due to the change in paint, but these changes, which give us a sense of Hokusai's never-ending spirit of inquiry and ambition, no matter how old he got, are also a highlight.
Hokusai Katsushika, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, White Rain Below the Mountain, circa 1831 (Tenpo 2)
Among his masterpieces is Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji: Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa , which boldly captures the moment when the spray of waves rises wildly high into the air in the ocean with the shape of Mount Fuji in the distance.
Katsushika Hokusai, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, Behind the Great Wave off Kanagawa, circa 1831
Using this painting as an example, Yamamoto pointed out that one of the attractions of Hokusai's work is the "visual tricks."
"It has been pointed out that Hokusai purposely included designs in his works that would guide the viewer's gaze. When people look at this painting, I think their eyes are first drawn to the violently rising waves. The waves in the foreground are triangular, and on closer inspection they correspond to Mount Fuji in the distance. The painting is designed to naturally guide the viewer's gaze from the triangle in the foreground to the triangle in the distance."
Katsushika Hokusai, Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, Sazaido at Gohyakurakanji Temple, circa 1831 (Tenpo 2)
Similarly, the intention to guide the viewer's eye is clear in Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji, Sazaido Hall of the Gohyakurakan Temple , where various lines from the floorboards, roof, and balustrade of the hall, to the fingertips of the worshippers, converge on Mount Fuji towering in the background. Hokusai, who excelled in Western perspective drawing, also excelled in this work, demonstrating his skill with geometric composition.
Katsushika Hokusai, "Famous Bridges of Various Provinces: Old Map of the Eight Bridges of Mikawa" 1833-34Katsushika Hokusai, "One Hundred Tales: Laughing at Me", circa Tempō 2-3 (1831-32)
Chapter 4: Utagawa Hiroshige – Edo in Rain, Moon and Snow
The next artist, Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858), initially produced portraits of beautiful women and actors, but his breakthrough series , "Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido," firmly established him as a landscape painter.
Hiroshige Utagawa, "Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido: Morning Scene at Nihonbashi Bridge," 1833-34
The series depicts 55 landscapes, including the 53 post towns along the Tokaido road connecting Edo and Kamigata, as well as Nihonbashi and Kyoto's Sanjo Ohashi bridge. It became an explosive hit, fueled by the travel boom caused by Jippensha Ikku's "Tokaido Chu Hizakurige." It is also noteworthy that it was published at roughly the same time as Hokusai's "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" series, which is often compared to Hokusai's masterful landscape painting.
Utagawa Hiroshige, "The Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido: Kambara, Snow at Night," circa Tempō 4-5 (1833-34)
Regarding Hiroshige's landscape paintings, Yamamoto says the following:
"Although they are landscape paintings, they also depict local people, travelers, the customs and customs of travel, and the atmosphere, which creates a sense of charm. They are not just landscape paintings, nor are they just portraits, nor are they just nature, nor are they just people's lives. The beauty of Hiroshige's works is that they are all integrated together."
Both Hiroshige and Hokusai are said to have been avid travelers. Hiroshige made full use of the natural scenery, the climate, and the people who lived there, while Hokusai boldly exaggerated the formative qualities of the things he saw. It is interesting to compare the differences in their perspectives and directions.
Utagawa Hiroshige, "Yumiharitsuki, one of 28 scenes of the moon", circa 1832 (Tenpo 3)Utagawa Hiroshige, One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: Showers over the Great Bridge, 1857
Hiroshige was also skilled at painting famous places around Japan, and in his "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo" series, a masterpiece from his later years, he even attempted the unusual vertical layout of a landscape painting.
Particularly striking is "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: The Plum Tree Shop at Kameido," in which the plum tree branches are drawn extremely enlarged in the foreground, and the overall view of the plum tree house is captured in the gaps between them, creating a sufficient sense of perspective even in a vertical frame. This type of composition is called a close-up composition, and was a favorite of Hiroshige in his later years.
Utagawa Hiroshige, One Hundred Famous Views of Edo, Kameido Plum Shop, 1857
One of the great features of Hiroshige's work is the way he varies the composition of each work, from taking the same perspective as the traveller, to looking down from a great height like a bird, to deliberately placing the rugged rock face in the center of the picture to express the precipitousness of the cliffs. The unrestrained spatial expression, drawn with imagination as if it were taken by drone, never tires the viewer.
Chapter 5: Utagawa Kuniyoshi – Heroes and Spectacles
Chapter 5 features Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861), who was the same age as Utagawa Hiroshige and was active during the late Edo and Meiji periods. The atmosphere of the exhibited works has changed drastically from previous exhibitions, presenting a spectacular, action-packed drama.
Kuniyoshi made his breakthrough with the "Popular Suikoden" series, which combines dynamic character portrayals and beautiful colors in dynamic scenes created with bold brushwork. He created many Japanese heroes and heroines, and broke new ground with his fantastical and exciting warrior paintings and rebellious and humorous caricatures.
Kuniyoshi Utagawa《One Hundred and Eight Heroes of the Popular Water Margin: Changjun, the White Jump》 Around the end of the Bunsei era (1827-29)
One of the 108 Heroes of the Popular Suikoden: Zhang Shun Leaps White on the Rise is renowned as a masterpiece in the series, depicting the scene in which Zhang Shun, the leader of the navy, falls into an enemy trap, is hit by countless arrows and meets a heroic end. The depiction of his glaring expression and each strand of standing hair conveys the menace of someone prepared to die.
As in this work, Kuniyoshi often decorated his characters with flashy tattoos (irezumi), and it is said that these were so impressive that they sparked a tattoo boom in Edo.
Utagawa Kuniyoshi, "Ogobesu Karu Toyoura Village Captured by Lightning," 1836-37 (Tenpo 7-8)
The Old Palace of Soma, with its striking giant skull straddling the seam of the paper, is a work based on Santo Kyoden's Yomihon (a long illustrated novel that was popular in the Edo period). The distinctive widescreen triptych (a composition that treats a series of works as one large screen) is a technique that Kuniyoshi was good at.
In the foreground is Utagawa Kuniyoshi's "The Old Imperial Palace of Soma" from around the Koka period (1844-48).
The painting depicts the appearance of strange creatures in the ruins of Taira no Masakado's Imperial Palace, but in the illustration in the book, which shows countless small skulls, Kuniyoshi has uniquely changed it to a single giant skull. Furthermore, the powerful effect of the triptych shows a glimpse of Kuniyoshi's unique creativity.
Utagawa Kuniyoshi, "Kinji Sakata, Sadamitsu Usui, Tsugutsuna Minamoto and the Monsters", Bunkyū 1 (1861)
Although Kuniyoshi excels at depicting action-packed warriors, he does not always depict spectacular scenes. For example, "Sakata Kintoki, Usui Sadamitsu, Minamoto no Tsugutsuna and Monsters" depicts the scene where Minamoto no Yorimitsu's four heavenly kings are playing a game of Go with monsters plotting evil deeds. The humorous contrast between the pitiful monsters who are easily subdued and the samurai who are playing Go with stern but unaffected expressions will make you chuckle.
Honor: Invincible to the Right, Jingoro to the Left depicts the famous Edo sculptor Jingoro and the sculptures that surround him. However, the scattered trademarks of Kuniyoshi, such as the Hell Transformation Picture Dotera, the Hoto Seal cushion, and the cat that is beside him, show that in fact it is Kuniyoshi himself who appears in the work, likening him to Jingoro.
In the foreground is Utagawa Kuniyoshi's "Honor: Invincible to the Right, Jingoro to the Left" (1848)
Yamamoto also points out that the faces of the surrounding sculptures, such as Nio and Guan Yu, are caricatures of actors.
"During the Tenpo Reforms, the entertainment industry was cracked down on and ukiyo-e artists were banned from painting pictures of actors or beautiful women. But the artists continued to create works by any means possible, and Kuniyoshi in particular had an extremely rebellious spirit, so even after the reforms relaxed, he continued to paint Buddhist statues resembling actors, as if to mock the shogunate, and demonstrate what he was capable of. He was a commoner who painted pictures for the common people, yet he rebelled against authority in this way. That was the artist Kuniyoshi."
The "Five Great Ukiyo-e Artists – Utamaro, Sharaku, Hokusai, Hiroshige, Kuniyoshi" exhibition will run until Sunday, July 6, 2025. One of the exhibition's catchphrases is "Find your favorite!" Even if you are not familiar with ukiyo-e, we encourage you to experience the masterpieces of the five great stars who reached the pinnacle of ukiyo-e at this exhibition and find your favorite artist.
Overview of the "Five Great Ukiyo-e Artists Exhibition – Utamaro, Sharaku, Hokusai, Hiroshige, Kuniyoshi"
Dates
May 27th (Tue) – July 6th (Sun), 2025 *No closing days
Opening hours
10:00-17:00 (Last admission 30 minutes before closing)
venue
Ueno Royal Museum (1-2 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0007)
