#Japan #50th Anniversary #Tachikawa #Nontan #PLAY! MUSEUM

Celebrating Nontan's 50th Anniversary with Interactive Exhibitions

In a colorful homage to the beloved children's character Nontan, the PLAY! MUSEUM is set to host a special exhibition titled “Nontan 50th Anniversary: Always Friends!!!” from July 18, 2026, to September 27, 2026. This event commemorates the 50 years since the debut of the first publication in the Nontan series, written and illustrated by Sachiko Kiyono, which has sold over 35 million copies since its inception in 1976.

This special exhibition is an immersive experience designed to allow visitors of all ages to celebrate Nontan’s milestone birthday together. Visitors will be welcomed into an enchanting installation representing Nontan's dream world, showcasing a giant birthday cake and Nontan's favorite red car, among other captivating 3D artworks. Through this whimsical journey, attendees will engage in a story where they can play alongside Nontan, who jumps out of the pages of the beloved picture books.

Key Attractions of the Exhibition

1. Giant Nontan: Experience the charming sight of a 2.5-meter-long Nontan peacefully asleep, inviting visitors to dive into the whimsical world of this beloved character.
2. Celebratory Gifts for Nontan: Show your love by helping celebrate with three massive gifts—a giant birthday cake, a four-meter-long red car, and a LEGO® model of Nontan, all designed to delight fans and participants alike.
3. Interactive Picture Book Scenes: Recapture the magic of storytelling as scenes from books such as Nontan Pees the Bed are artistically reimagined, along with play areas designed to let kids engage physically with the story.
4. Art Display Corner: A treasure trove of around 50 colorful original illustrations and sketches will be exhibited in the emotional “Always Friends!!!” corner, providing insight into Kiyono's creative process.

This exhibition promises to be an engaging and nostalgic experience that encourages both children and adults to relive the joys of their childhood as they celebrate alongside Nontan.

Exhibition Details

• - Title: Nontan 50th Anniversary: Always Friends!!!
• - Date: July 18, 2026 - September 27, 2026
• - Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
• - Location: PLAY! MUSEUM, GREEN SPRINGS, 2F, Tachikawa, Tokyo
• - Admission Fees:

- General: ¥1,800
- University Students: ¥1,200
- High School Students: ¥1,000
- Junior High School Students: ¥600
- Elementary School Students: ¥600
- Free for preschool-aged children
- Discounts available for disabled persons and Tachikawa residents/students (not to be combined)

Important Notices:

1. Reservations must be made online; no tickets will be available for purchase on the day of the event at the venue.
2. For safety, a ratio of one adult to no more than two children (elementary or preschool age) is required.

Location: 3-1 Midori-cho, Tachikawa, Tokyo, 2F GREEN SPRINGS W3 Building
More details on our website
Organizer: PLAY! MUSEUM
Collaboration: Kaiseisha

Special Exhibition Merchandise

Celebrate the 50th anniversary with a collection of exclusive items, including vibrant bandanas and backpacks featuring Nontan, as well as new releases like Nontan's House related merchandise and everyday-use items such as slide mirrors. A total of 35 different products will be available, some of which will be released ahead of the main event on August 7, 2026.

Photos of original merchandise by Nao Shimizu

Café Collaboration Menu

Indulge in adorable Nontan-themed dishes that are almost too cute to eat! These exclusive items will only be available at the PLAY! CAFE adjacent to the museum for visitors of the exhibition, featuring delightful meals like Nontan's hashed beef and various delectable desserts.

Experience the magic of Nontan’s 50th anniversary—a celebration filled with joy, creativity, and unforgettable memories!