Special Exhibition at Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum in Ryogoku, Tokyo, is celebrating its renewal with a special exhibition titled "Dreams and Challenges of Meiji Western Architecture," running from June 23 to August 23, 2026. This exhibition not only showcases architectural achievements from the Meiji period but also offers various engaging events designed for families and art enthusiasts alike.
Unique Bento Collaboration
One of the highlights is the collaboration bento box created by the acclaimed bento artist nancy. The first release of this collaboration features a dish inspired by the artwork
"Scenery from Edbashi to Nihonbashi" by Kobayashi Kiyochika, drawn in 1882. This visually stunning bento box reproduces the expressions and details of figures depicted in the artwork, making for a delightful surprise both in presentation and taste. The bento includes a variety of flavors, such as hamburger, broccoli, cheese, and konjac, all crafted with care. Make sure to look out for more colorful bento creations that will be revealed until mid-August!
Follow nancy's work on her Instagram to see the creativity unfold:
nancychannel.
Workshops for All Ages
In addition to the bento collaboration, the museum will host a series of workshops that are perfect for summer vacation. Activities include:
- - Creating Original Western-Style Ornaments
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Date: August 1
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Time: 10:30 AM - 6:30 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
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Fee: 500 yen (cash only)
- - Building Mini Panoramic Models of Meiji Western Architecture
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Date: August 2
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Times: (1) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (2) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Fee: 1,000 yen per group (cash only)
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Age Group: Suitable for elementary students and older (children under third grade must be accompanied by an adult).
- - Architecture Gymnastics – Western Style
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Date: August 15
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Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
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Free Entry
Parents and children can enjoy these workshops together and create unforgettable memories during the summer break!
Exhibition Overview
This special exhibition explores the rapid development of Western-style architecture in Tokyo during the Meiji period, showcasing various architectural masterpieces. Visitors can expect an engaging representation of how Western architecture influenced Japanese styles, from pseudo-Western structures to complete Western designs created by foreign architects.
Significant pieces of art including national treasures and important cultural assets will be displayed, aiming to recreate the astonishment felt by people during that era with immersive, three-dimensional staging.
Key Information
- - Exhibition Name: Special Exhibition “Western-style Architecture in Japan”
- - Exhibition Dates: June 23 – August 23, 2026 (with scheduled rotation)
- - Location: Edo-Tokyo Museum, 1st Floor Special Exhibition Room
- - Admission Fee: General 1,600 yen; College/University Students 1,280 yen; Seniors (65+) 800 yen. Free for younger students and eligible individuals with disabilities.
Don't miss this exciting time to explore the wonders of Meiji architecture and participate in enriching activities at the Edo-Tokyo Museum!