#Japan #Osaka #Tamura Koma #Billiken

Special Exhibition Featuring Tamura Koma and Billiken in Osaka

In a vibrant cultural celebration, the special exhibition titled "Tamura Koma and Billiken of Senba" was held at the Osaka headquarters of Tamura Koma Co., Ltd. during the Open House Osaka 2025 festival. With approximately 400 attendees over two days, the event showcased the fascinating historical context of Tamura Koma's architectural legacy and the iconic Billiken figure, marking a significant milestone for the company and the local community.

Celebrating History and Community

Despite inclement weather with occasional rain, the exhibition attracted a diverse audience, including families, history enthusiasts, and long-time festival attendees. Visitors praised the entrance's color scheme, the white walls, and the arched staircases, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the event.

The exhibition was organized into two main sections: a history booth focusing on the evolution of the Tamura Koma buildings and a dedicated Billiken booth, both of which captivated attendees.

A Journey Through Time: The History Booth

The history booth acted as a time capsule, presenting valuable artifacts that narrate Tamura Koma's 130-year journey. A vintage noren (a traditional Japanese fabric divider) set the nostalgic tone, enticing locals and visitors alike. As guests passed through the noren, they encountered a range of informative tapestries detailing the company's architectural evolution, its name and design, and the relationship between Tamura Koma and baseball.

Among the highlights was the rare Billiken statue from 1949, which served as the model for the second generation of Billiken at Tsutenkaku Tower. This statue, typically not open to the public, welcomed guests and provided insight into its cultural significance.

Other historical displays included a traditional abacus, signs, and actual design blueprints that exemplified Tamura Koma's craftsmanship. Attendees found themselves immersed in the past, engaging with items like a Tamura Koma sales brochure from the 1960s, which elicited nostalgia and admiration for its retro charm.

The Billiken Booth: A Local Favorite

The Billiken booth was a true highlight, revealing deep affection for this beloved icon among attendees. Many visitors were curious about Billiken's history and origins, eagerly absorbing explanations from the staff.

A section dedicated to the "BILLIKEN CREATORS OSAKA" art initiative showcased how artists inspired by Billiken are contributing to community revitalization in Osaka. Guests explored three distinct Billiken statues: the "Koma Billiken" created by renowned artist Nagare Seiji, the historically significant model from 1949, and the newly unveiled Billiken to commemorate Tamura Koma’s anniversary.

An interactive component invited guests to write down their wishes and receive mini Billiken figures after following the official Billiken Instagram. The enthusiastic response resulted in a quick sell-out of figures by noon. This interactive experience not only highlighted Billiken's cultural importance but also engaged the community in a fun and meaningful way.

Looking Ahead: Community Engagement and Future Plans

Looking forward, Tamura Koma is committed to continuing its community engagement through innovative projects and contributions. The success of the exhibition underlines the importance of celebrating local heritage and fostering connections through cultural events.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: Open House Osaka 2025 (Ikefesu Osaka)
• - Dates: October 25–26, 2025
• - Venue: Tamura Koma Corporation Headquarters, Osaka
• - Admission: Free
• - Website: Open House Osaka

The special exhibition not only celebrated Tamura Koma's rich history but also served as a reminder of the enduring love for Billiken, resonating deeply with both locals and visitors. As the festival approaches, Tamura Koma continues to prepare for more engaging community-oriented programs.