#Japan #Tokyo #Hibiya Kadan #Tokyo Weekender #Leslie Kee

Celebrating Tokyo Weekender's 55th Anniversary

Tokyo Weekender, the oldest existing English-language lifestyle magazine in Japan, is celebrating its 55th anniversary with a special exhibition titled "Life, Culture, and Creativity in Tokyo 1970–2025". This event will be held from October 16 to 20, 2025, at Creative Space Akademeia in Harajuku. The exhibition aims to showcase the vibrant culture and history of Tokyo over the last 55 years through a collaboration between the magazine, world-renowned photographer Leslie Kee, and the floral design company Hibiya Kadan.

A Floral Celebration of Diversity

As part of the celebration, Hibiya Kadan will create an elaborate floral installation made from 55 types of flowers. This stunning centerpiece will serve as a photo spot and is designed with the theme of "diversity." By incorporating biophilic design elements that contribute to human well-being, the installation will not only beautify the venue but also serve as a reminder of the unchanging value of flowers and greenery in a world that is rapidly changing.

The installation aims to reflect a variety of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, celebrating the beauty found in diversity and the essential role flowers play in enriching our lives.

Leslie Kee's Portrait Series: TW ICONS

A highlight of the exhibition will be the unveiling of Leslie Kee's new portrait series titled "TW ICONS." This collection will feature portraits of 15 influential figures who have significantly shaped Japanese culture across various fields including art, architecture, fashion, entertainment, and sports. The exhibition will also showcase a large group shot that visually represents the connections between different generations and genres, emphasizing how culture connects and propels us into the future.

Notable Figures in TW ICONS

Some of the prominent individuals included in the TW ICONS series are filmmaker Naomi Kawase, architect Kengo Kuma, and actor Takumi Saito, among others. Each portrait tells a story of creative expression and the evolution of Tokyo's vibrant cultural landscape.

Unveiling 55 Years of Archived Treasures

In addition to the floral installations and portraits, the exhibition will present a curated display of hidden treasures from Tokyo Weekender's 55-year history. Visitors can expect to see rare cover stars and articles, showcasing the cultural transitions of Tokyo through the eyes of international contributors from 1970 to 2025.

Free Magazine Distribution: Icons Issue

During the exhibition, attendees can receive a limited-number free copy of Tokyo Weekender Vol.3, titled "The Icons Issue," which delves deeper into the TW ICONS featured in the exhibition, offering insights into their words and activities.

Special Talk Session with Leslie Kee

On October 16, during the exhibition, there will be a special talk session featuring Leslie Kee and Hibiya Kadan's CEO, Hiroaki Miyajima. The discussion will revolve around the theme "Voices of Tokyo — What 55 Years of Expression Mean for the Future." The talk will cover various aspects, including:

• - The evolution of Tokyo over the past 55 years, from the perspectives of artists and the changing role of flowers.
• - Behind-the-scenes collaboration for the exhibition.
• - Visions for Tokyo's future and contributions towards a vibrant cultural landscape.

Join Us to Celebrate

The exhibition will not only honor the illustrious history of Tokyo Weekender but also look forward to the future of Tokyo, showcasing the cultural richness and diversity that the city harbors. Join us from October 16 to 20, 2025, to experience a unique blend of floral art, photography, and the stories behind some of Japan's most celebrated cultural icons.

Event Details:

• - Exhibition Name: Tokyo Weekender 55th Anniversary Special Exhibition "Life, Culture, and Creativity in Tokyo 1970–2025"
• - Dates: October 16–20, 2025
• - Time: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Times may vary on the last day)
• - Location: Creative Space Akademeia, 21 Harajuku 1F/2F, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Access: A short walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station, Shibuya Station, and Harajuku Station
• - Admission: Free

This event promises to be a spectacular celebration, highlighting the intersection of flowers, culture, and creativity in Tokyo's ever-evolving narrative.