Tamura Koma's Inaugural Participation in Ikefes Osaka 2025
Starting on October 25, 2025, Tamura Koma Co., Ltd. will make its debut at the largest architectural festival in Japan, the "Ikidate Architecture Museum Festival Osaka (Ikefes Osaka) 2025." This event takes place over the weekend of October 25th and 26th and features a variety of beautiful architectural sites across Osaka, all open to the public for free.
The highlight for Tamura Koma will be a special exhibition entitled "The Billiken and Tamura Koma of Senba," housed on the first floor of their Osaka headquarters. This exhibition will delve into the rich history of this esteemed company, founded over 130 years ago, alongside showcasing the iconic Billiken figure that has become a hallmark of the brand's identity.
Overview of the Special Exhibition
1.
Reflecting on 130 Years of History through Unique Artifacts
The journey of Tamura Koma began in 1894 when founder Koji Tamura established the "Kandaya Tamura Store" in Osaka's Higashi Ward. This exhibition will provide visitors with a chance to appreciate the company's evolution through intriguing photographs and historical tools, including an antique abacus showcasing what life was like in those early days. Additionally, a traditional "noren" curtain, reminiscent of the shop’s early era, will welcome guests at the entrance.
2.
Explore Instaworthy Billiken Spots
The Billiken, a symbol of happiness born in the USA in 1908, soon made its way to Japan where Tamura Koma officially registered it as a trademark in 1911. At this exhibition, visitors will encounter several unique photo spots featuring the Billiken, allowing them to capture memorable moments. For instance, a replica of the Billiken figure from the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower will be unveiled for the first time to the public during Ikefes, alongside a new Billiken statue created by renowned sculptor Masayuki Nagare.
3.
Participate and Receive a Billiken Figurine
Guests will have the opportunity to visit the "Wish Upon the Billiken" booth where they can write their dreams and follow the official Billiken Instagram account to receive a Billiken mini-figure from a capsule-toy machine. Supplies are limited, and offers will cease once the stock runs out, making it a must-visit spot at the festival.
Event Details
- - Event Name: Ikidate Architecture Museum Festival Osaka (Ikefes Osaka) 2025
- - Dates: October 25-26, 2025
- - Participating Buildings: 199 as per date of August 20, 2025
- - Entry Fee: Free
- - Official Website: Ikefes Osaka
- - Twitter Account: @ikitakenchiku
Additional Information about the Tamura Koma Exhibition
- - Exhibition Name: The Billiken and Tamura Koma of Senba
- - Exhibition Hours: October 25-26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
- - Location: Tamura Koma Co., Ltd. Osaka Headquarters
- - Entry Method: No reservation required, free entry
- - Capacity: None
Company Background
Name: Tamura Koma Co., Ltd.
Main Office Location: Osaka City Central Ward, 3-3-9 Azuchi-cho, 541-0052, Osaka / 1-3-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0001
Contact Numbers: [Osaka Office] 06-6268-7000 / [Tokyo Office] 03-5771-1700
Capital: 1.24 billion yen
Business Description: A specialized trading company dealing in fabrics, apparel, miscellaneous goods, bedding, and construction/industrial materials.
Website: Tamura Koma
For further inquiries, please contact Asakura from the Management Planning Office via email:
[email protected].