#Japan #Shinjuku #Shunga #Kabukicho #Ukiyo-e

The Shinjuku Kabukicho Shunga Exhibition: A Journey Through Edo's Humor and Sensuality

In the vibrant streets of Kabukicho, where the spirit of Edo comes alive, comes a unique cultural experience. From July 26 to September 30, 2025, Smappa! Group will host the Shinjuku Kabukicho Shunga Exhibition at the iconic Shinjuku Kabukicho Noh Theatre. This exhibition will feature around 100 exquisite shunga (erotic art) pieces collected by the distinguished Uragami Soukyuudou.

A Glimpse into the Collection

The exhibition will display masterpieces from prominent Ukiyo-e artists such as Hishikawa Moronobu, Kitagawa Utamaro, Katsushika Hokusai, and Utagawa Kuniyoshi, dating from the early Edo period to the late Edo period. Uragami Mitsu, the curator, is recognized as a leading authority on shunga, having previously contributed to significant exhibitions in international venues, including the British Museum.

The Essence of Edo Culture

Shunga art captivated the hearts and minds of Edo citizens, humorously bridging the gap between social classes, from common folk to nobility. Known also as “Wamini” or “Laughing Pictures”, these artworks provided equal opportunity for enjoyment, whether one was admiring them alone or sharing laughs with friends. They symbolize a playful sensibility that flourished among the everyday lives of the Japanese people.

In the realm of Ukiyo-e, shunga occupies an essential artistic space. It is said that no Ukiyo-e artist refrained from creating shunga, making it a fundamental component of their craft. In a culture that embraced both the refined and the vulgar, artists poured skill and humor into their shunga, creating a unique narrative that celebrates the complex human experience.

Entering a World of Art and History

Visitors will find themselves stepping into a reconstructed Edo-era journey as they enter the exhibition space of the Shinjuku Kabukicho Noh Theatre. As they navigate the venue adorned with visuals and designs curated by art director Hayashi Yasutaka of Chim↑Pom from Smappa! Group, attendees will experience a seamless blend of Edo-era culture and present-day vibrancy.

The entrance, reminiscent of a historical pathway leading to the streets of Edo, invites visitors to immerse themselves in this artistic exploration. Once inside, the juxtaposition of Edo traditions and the electric energy of modern Kabukicho fosters an engaging environment, where differences in gender, nationality, occupation, and faith dissolve.

Embracing New Connections Through Shunga

The Shinjuku Kabukicho Shunga Exhibition encompasses not only masterful artistic representations but also intellectual curiosity, prompting visitors to decipher the intricacies of the narratives woven into the art—classical literature, poetry, and cultural metaphor abound in shunga. These artworks reflect Japan's rich tapestry of cultural intersections and create a platform for “wa” (harmony), supporting dialogues among diverse audiences.

Visitors are welcomed to this space to explore the humorous yet exquisite world portrayed by renowned Edo-era artists, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture through art.

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: July 26, 2025 – September 30, 2025
• - Location: Shinjuku Kabukicho Noh Theatre
• - Featured Works: Approximately 100 pieces from the Uragami Soukyuudou collection
• - Note: Admission is restricted to ages 18 and up.

Join Us!

Get ready for an enlightening experience that will invoke laughter and wonder, and bring you closer to the vibrant life of Edo—a celebration of art, culture, and human desire awaits you in the heart of Shinjuku Kabukicho.

For more information, keep an eye on our updates!