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'Night is Gentle' Returns to the Dome Theater

The Japan Science Future Museum, commonly known as Miraikan, has announced an exciting extension for the screening of Shuntaro Tanikawa's unique planetarium work, 'Night is Gentle.' Originally slated to end on December 27, 2025, the screening period will now continue until April 6, 2026, due to its overwhelming popularity.

A Journey Through Six Nights

'Night is Gentle' takes the audience on an immersive journey through the night skies of six different regions around the globe: Europe, Africa, South America, and more. Each location is uniquely presented, with ambient sounds of nature, music, and the voices of living beings enhancing the experience. Shuntaro Tanikawa’s original poems, including previously unpublished works, guide viewers, allowing them to explore the interconnectedness of the earth and their own existence. This planetarium experience captures the essence of night in its splendid variety and is designed to resonate deeply with both children and adults.

A Timeless Experience

Even after sixteen years since its debut, 'Night is Gentle' remains an evocative encounter. The fusion of visuals and poetry creates an atmosphere where viewers can appreciate the beauty of the cosmos while reflecting on their connection to it. As Tanikawa himself describes, his experience as a child gazing at the Tokyo skyline shapes his artistic vision. The program aims to recreate that transcendent moment when, alongside Bach’s melodies, the skies darken and stars come to life, symbolizing our profound relationship with the universe.

Screening Information

• - Schedule: The show runs once daily at 16:20, with a runtime of about 25 minutes.
• - Last Screening Date: April 6, 2026, extended from the original plan of December 27, 2025.
• - Closed on: Tuesdays (open on public holidays and during school breaks) and during the year-end holidays (December 28 - January 1).
• - Admission Fees:

- Adults: 940 yen
- Youth under 18: 310 yen
- Preschoolers: 100 yen

The audience is reminded to make a reservation in advance to secure their spot. Tickets can be booked online starting a week before the screening through the Miraikan's official ticketing website.

The Creation of 'Night is Gentle'

The collaboration between Shuntaro Tanikawa and Miraikan began in 2005 with the planetarium work 'The Color of Darkness.' This project revolved around the concept of focusing on the 'invisible' aspects of the universe such as dark matter. Following this, Tanikawa proposed creating a work that encapsulated the essence of world nights through sound and poetry, leading to the completion of 'Night is Gentle,' in which he was significantly involved in the composition and direction.

Technical Features

The planetarium features the 'MEGASTAR-Ⅱ cosmos,' enabling realistic depictions of the night sky as it captures the serene beauty of the stars while intermingling it with authentic environmental sounds captured through field recordings. The piece seeks to draw connections between the audience and the timeless contemplation that night brings, encouraging reflection on one’s place in relation to the universe.

Credits

• - Original Concept, Poetry, and Narration: Shuntaro Tanikawa
• - Supervision: Eiichi Mori
• - Narration: Kumiko Aso
• - Field Recording and Sound Design: Yoshihiro Kawasaki
• - Insertion Song: ‘Night is Gentle,’ Lyrics by Shuntaro Tanikawa, Composed by Kensaku Tanikawa
• - Promotional Photography: Tomoko Kawauchi
• - Collaboration: Tanikawa Shuntaro Office
• - Planning and Production: Japan Science Future Museum

Miraikan is located at 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo, Japan. For more information, you can visit their official website.