#Japan #Tokyo #Edo Period #Reiken Kobō #Cultural asset

Limited Time Exhibition of 'Reiken Kobō'

The National Archives of Japan proudly announces a limited-time special exhibition of the newly designated Important Cultural Asset, 'Reiken Kobō', which will take place from October 25 to November 7, 2025. This exhibition celebrates the recent designation of 'Reiken Kobō' as an Important Cultural Asset as of September 26, 2025.

'Reiken Kobō', which translates to 'Records of Astronomical Observations', contains documents prepared during the Edo period under the directive of the Tokugawa shogunate. Compiled by astronomer Kagesuke Shibukawa, this historical record spans 17 years of astronomical observations from November 1838 to 1854, providing invaluable insights into Japan’s astronomical and meteorological heritage.

Among the remarkable entries in this record are the observations of the annular solar eclipse that occurred on August 1, 1839, and meticulous weather data reflecting the record snowfall of approximately 90 cm in Edo on December 17, 1841. These data not only showcase the scientific endeavors of the time but also serve as crucial primary sources for understanding Japan's history of astronomy and weather phenomena.

This exhibition will spotlight the illustrations from a specific part of the archives, particularly from Volume 1 of the annexed writings titled 'Star Measurements'. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with historical documents and appreciate the artistic craftsmanship through accompanying displays, alongside three more Important Cultural Assets featured in the current exhibition called 'Global Perspectives: Knowledge of the Edo Period'.

Additional Cultural Exhibits

As part of the thriving Tokyo Cultural Week, the exhibition will also include the following Important Cultural Assets:

• - 'Hokui Bunkai Yawa': This significant text is an account of the survey conducted by the notable figure Rinzō Mamiya, capturing the lives of the indigenous Karafuto Ainu people through meticulous colored illustrations made between 1991 and 2025.
• - 'Goshomotsukata Diary': A 150-year-long operational record kept by the book management officials of the Edo shogunate, documenting the intricacies of book management, cataloging, and acquisitions.
• - 'Oranda Honzo Waki': Compiled by physician and scholar Motokatsu Noro on orders from shogun Yoshimune, this translated document provides a wealth of information on medicinal herbs, featuring names in Dutch, Latin, and Japanese.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Duration: October 25, 2025 (Saturday) to November 7, 2025 (Friday)
• - Opening Hours: 9:15 AM – 5:00 PM (Open daily)
• - Location: National Archives of Japan, First Floor Exhibition Hall, 3-2 Kitanomaru Park, Chiyoda, Tokyo 102-0091
• - Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 1b of Takebashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line

For more information, please visit the National Archives of Japan's website here and the Tokyo Cultural Week page here. Don't miss the chance to witness these incredible treasures of Japan's cultural heritage!