#Japan #Tokyo #Eric Carle #PLAY! PARK #The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Celebrating 50 Years of The Very Hungry Caterpillar

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Japanese publication of the beloved children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. In honor of this milestone, a unique event is set to unfold between April 25, 2026, and July 26, 2026, uniting the enchanting world of Eric Carle with the vibrant activities of the PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE and the Eric Carle Exhibition at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. The event invites families to immerse themselves in the whimsical universe of Eric Carle through an engaging quiz rally.

Exciting Quiz Rally at PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE

The WE♡The Very Hungry Caterpillar Quiz Rally connects the fun-filled environment of PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE with the artistic experience of the Eric Carle Exhibition. Children aged 0-12 and their guardians are encouraged to participate in this interactive event. Families will be given worksheets filled with quizzes themed around the beloved book and Eric Carle’s artistic journey. By answering the questions and collecting stamps from various stations, participants can earn a special logo sticker to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Japanese release of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This festive occasion provides a unique opportunity for families to explore and enjoy the world of Eric Carle together.

More About the Eric Carle Exhibition

The Eric Carle Exhibition: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Begins will showcase works from 27 books, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me, and Ten Tiny Ducks. Displayed items include original illustrations, early drafts of designs, and materials used for collage art. Visitors will have the chance to appreciate the vivid colors and innovative design methods that Eric Carle is known for, as well as the gentle perspective he brings to children's literature.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Name: Eric Carle Exhibition: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Begins
• - Dates: April 25, 2026 – July 26, 2026
• - Location: 1F/3F, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
• - Organizers: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Eric Carle Picture Book Museum, Yomiuri Shimbun
• - Collaborators: All Nippon Airways, Kaiseisha, Cosmo Merchandise

Discover PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE

Opened in November 2021, PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE is a children’s park inspired by the storybook world created by Eric Carle. This colorful play space invites young visitors to engage in nine distinct areas, including mazes and art studios that reflect the playful spirit of Carle's illustrations. The park also emphasizes learning through play, offering a variety of workshops suitable for all ages that take place daily. These workshops encourage children to explore different art forms and physical activities in a fun-filled environment.

Park Information

• - Name: PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE
• - Address: 2-21-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya, Tokyo, 8F, Futako Tamagawa Rise Shopping Center
• - Website: PLAY! PARK ERIC CARLE

Ticketing Information

Tickets for the event can be purchased online in advance or available at the venue on the day of the event. However, those wishing for guaranteed access should consider purchasing online tickets.

• - Pricing:

- Weekdays: 1-Day Ticket: 2,600 yen (First Visit), 2,300 yen (Subsequent Visits)
- Weekends & Holidays: Time-specific tickets: 2,800 yen (First Visit), 2,500 yen (Subsequent Visits)

Join us for a delightful celebration that bridges art, play, and the joy of learning related to one of children's literature's most beloved characters! Don’t miss this chance to dive into the enchanting world of Eric Carle, where stories come to life through creativity and imagination. Together, let’s celebrate The Very Hungry Caterpillar and its timeless impact on readers around the world.