#Japan #Tokyo #Catrip #UENO ART & MARKET #Ameyoko

UENO ART & MARKET: A Cultural Journey

From September 12 to October 12, 2026, Ueno will transform as the UENO ART & MARKET showcases a dynamic collaboration between the art world and the bustling Ameyoko shopping district. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the National Museum of Western Art's UNESCO World Heritage designation, this month-long event invites visitors to traverse the artistic and commercial paths of Ueno.

Connecting Art and Ameyoko

Ueno is not just a cultural hub with renowned institutions like the National Museum of Western Art, but it also houses the lively Ameyoko shopping street, home to around 400 retailers. Despite their proximity, the flow of visitors often segregates the two experiences. The UENO ART & MARKET aims to merge these sides of Ueno through an engaging walking program that takes visitors from art exhibitions directly into the heart of Ameyoko’s vibrant market scene.

The event will feature a series of art displays within the naturally occurring storefronts of the shopping district, eliminating the need for separate venues and enhancing the everyday shopping experience with creativity and culture.

Mystery-Solving with Catrip

One of the event's highlights is the free mystery-solving program titled Catrip: Art-focused Mystery Tour. Participants will explore Ueno Park, Ueno Station, and the Ameyoko area alongside a whimsical cat character. Starting from the National Museum of Western Art, participants will unravel clues leading them through art treasures while enjoying trivia about each piece encountered along the way.

To join the fun, individuals can pick up a free mystery-solving booklet at designated locations, scan the provided QR code, and register via the dedicated LINE app. The entire journey takes approximately one hour, with the ideal times for engagement set between 9 AM and 5 PM.

For those who successfully complete the challenge, a limited-edition original merchandise item, inspired by Ueno’s impressive landscape, awaits. Prizes include:

• - 100 T-shirts
• - 100 Tote bags
• - 100 Keychains

Note: Prizes are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and other participation rewards will also be presented.

Art Exhibitions in Ameyoko

While exploring the mysteries, attendees can also enjoy a series of art exhibits at two selected storefronts in Ameyoko. Detailed exhibitions featuring photography and graffiti work by local artists will be on display for free:

• - Ueno Game Club: Features works by professional photographer Hideyuki Sakuma (@hideyuki_sakuma).
• - Coffee by Jalana: Showcases graffiti art by Ki Raku Ni Tanoshimou (@kirakunitanoshimou).

Event Details

• - Event Name: UENO ART & MARKET
• - Dates: September 12, 2026 – October 12, 2026
• - Location: Ameyoko Shopping Street, Ueno, Taito Ward, Tokyo
• - Exhibition Venues: Ueno Game Club / Coffee by Jalana (Free entry)
• - Booklet Distribution Points: NewDays Ecute Ueno Station Exit / JTB Ueno Marui / Ameyoko Shopping Association Office
• - Participation Fee: Free
• - Organizers: Ameyoko Central Shopping Street Promotion Association & Ameyoko Plaza Shopping Association
• - Support: Taito Ward
• - Special Website: UENO ART & MARKET

Event details, including prizes and schedules, may change without prior notice.

For inquiries related to this release, please contact:

• - Ameyoko Central Shopping Street Promotion Association
• - Phone: 03-3832-5053
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Location: Within Ameyoko Federation Office