#Japan #Tokyo #National Treasures #Kuukai #Shingon Buddhism

Celebrating 1250 Years of Kuukai

The Tokyo National Museum proudly presents the special exhibition "Kuukai and the Treasures of Shingon" starting July 14, 2026, to commemorate the 1250th anniversary of the birth of Kuukai, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. This remarkable exhibition gathers treasures from Shingon’s 18 founding temples and associated sites, featuring a total of 88 sacred artifacts, including 15 national treasures and 60 important cultural properties.

At this exhibition, you will have the rare opportunity to view nine hidden deities (known as "hihbutu") not typically accessible to the public, alongside various artifacts related to the after seven-day rituals that are considered paramount in Shingon practices. By experiencing the beauty of Kuukai’s teachings through art and offerings, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of how his influence permeated throughout Japan over the past 1200 years.

Special Features of the Exhibition

To enhance the exhibition experience, we will feature several exciting initiatives:

Audio Guide

The exhibition will also feature an audio guide narrated by the beloved Japanese singer-songwriter MISIA. Renowned for her hits like "Everything" and "Ain’t No Shape", MISIA shares the stories behind the treasures gathered from the 18 Shingon temples. The audio guide serves as a companion for attendees, providing insights about each exhibit.

• - Rental Price: 700 JPY (tax included)
• - App Version (iOS/Android): 800 JPY (tax included)

Merchandise and Catalog

The exhibition offers a variety of exclusive merchandise and collaboration items:
1. Nyoirin Kannon Plush Mascot: Priced at 3,300 JPY, this adorable item embodies the benevolent nature of the deity, known for granting wishes.
2. Original Goshuin Book: A beautifully designed booklet featuring the emblems of the 18 founding temples, available for 3,080 JPY.
3. KINTO Water Bottle: A stylish collaboration that offers three refreshing colors, priced at 2,860 JPY.
4. Acrylic Stand and Block: Featuring the renowned Gochi Nyorai statue, the stand costs 2,200 JPY and the block 1,100 JPY.
5. Exhibition Catalog: This comprehensive 256-page catalog highlights all 88 sacred treasures and includes vibrant images, available for 3,100 JPY.

Cross-Exhibition Ticket

A special combined ticket for this exhibition and the British Museum’s Japanese Art Collection is also available, encouraging visitors to explore even broader aspects of Japanese heritage, priced at 4,400 JPY.

Visitor Gifts

As a special thank you, all visitors to the exhibition will receive a complimentary original fan, adorned with designs representing the 18 Shingon temples. Additionally, a limited edition bookmark with a 100 JPY coupon will be distributed.

Engaging Programming

To complement the exhibition, NHK will airing programs that delve deeper into the exhibition's themes:

• - July 18: Special program on the hidden deities to be aired on BS.
• - July 24: A segment presenting cultural insights related to Kuukai.
• - August 2: Sunday museum special discussing the secrets of hidden deities.

Important Information

• - Location: Tokyo National Museum, Heiseikan
• - Exhibition Duration: July 14, 2026 – September 6, 2026 (with selected piece rotations)
• - Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5 PM (Open until 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)

Join us this summer as we gather Japan’s sacred treasures to celebrate Kuukai’s enduring legacy in this extraordinary exhibition. Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with history and spirituality at the Tokyo National Museum.