Extravaganza Unfolds at BENTEN 2 Art Night Kabukicho
Coming this November, the vibrant neighborhood of Kabukicho will be transformed into an all-night celebration of art with the
BENTEN 2 Art Night. Over three spectacular nights from November 1 to 3, the event will bring together an eclectic mix of artists under the theme of
re-wilding urban spaces.
Curated by the renowned group
Chim↑Pom, the festival promises performances and exhibitions from a stellar lineup.
A Diverse Artist Lineup
This year’s event has expanded its artist roster significantly. Highlights include
VMO collaborating with the avant-garde sound artist
Merzbow for their inaugural performance together, along with the extraordinary talents of
Akira Aida and
JAZZDOMMUNISTERS, consisting of
Seiko Kikuchi and
Nobuaki Otani.
Engaging Program Elements
The underground vibe continues with installations and performances like
Arv100, featuring over 200 cymbals designed by
Yoshimi P-We of BOREDOMS fame. Additionally, the event incorporates various art forms, from exhibitions at the
Ojo Building to interactive experiences like the
Miso Making Workshop hosted by artist
Yuta Geshi. Attendees can even take home the miso they create!
At
The Four-Eyed, art and fashion enthusiasts can explore
Yami Ichiba, a reimagined underground market which pulses with Kabukicho's unique cultural energy.
Expanding Spaces for Creativity
In a bid to utilize every corner of Kabukicho for creative expression, numerous locations will host mesmerizing activities. The
Shinjuku Noh Stage will feature a special exhibit and new performance by
Miwa Yanagi, while
WHITEHOUSE will reflect on the 100-year history of Shinjuku with a retrospective around the
1975 MoMA exhibition, “Shinjuku: The Phenomenal City.” Moreover, talks led by architect
Toyo Ito will provoke thought about the city’s architectural evolution.
Final Notes on the Festival
The festival unites diverse expressions through art, performance, food, and trade, creating a chaotic yet exciting atmosphere akin to a vibrant alleyway. Notable programs like the
Katsu Ben Ten Film Festival, which showcases a traditional Japanese art form, will also be a highlight at the
Ojo Building.
With ticket options ranging from one-day passes to three-day access providing an economical choice to immerse yourself in art, BENTEN 2 Art Night Kabukicho is undeniably an event to look forward to this upcoming winter.
For those eager to dive into an artistic journey through the streets of Kabukicho, make sure to grab your tickets in advance!
Event Details
- - Dates: November 1-3, 2025
- - Location: Kabukicho Area (Ojo Building, Shinjuku Noh Stage, Dekameron, WHITEHOUSE, the revived “Tokyo Desert,” and THE FOUR-EYED)
- - Official Website: benten-kabukicho.com
Don’t miss the chance to experience this unique convergence of art, culture, and nightlife!”,