Unveiling the High-Resolution Replica of National Treasure 'Doshokusaie' at the Tokyo National Museum

The Spectacular Debut of 'Doshokusaie' High-Resolution Replica

In a remarkable collaboration, Canon Inc. and the National Center for Cultural Properties have joined forces to create a stunning high-resolution replica of the national treasure 'Doshokusaie', originally painted by Ito Jakuchu. This artistically significant work, depicting vibrant plant and animal life, will be on public display at the Tokyo National Museum's Hyokeikan from April 17 to May 17, 2026.

A Collaborative Endeavor to Enrich Cultural Experiences

Since 2018, Canon and the Cultural Properties Utilization Center have been working together on a research project aimed at enriching public access to cultural properties. This initiative has already produced 18 high-resolution replicas allowing viewers to experience the intricate details of the artwork in ways that original pieces cannot provide — offering close-up views, educational outreach programs, and immersive exhibits combining technology and tradition.

The 'Doshokusaie' itself is a monumental work comprising 30 pieces, which Jakuchu meticulously created over a decade during the mid-Edo period. It is celebrated for its lifelike representation of flora, avian species, insects, and fish, showcasing Jakuchu’s innovative artistic techniques and vibrant use of color.

The production of this high-resolution replica utilized advanced imaging techniques developed through the 'Tsuzuri Project', a collaborative initiative between Canon and the Kyoto Cultural Association. By blending cutting-edge imaging technology with traditional Kyoto craftsmanship, the team has brilliantly captured Jakuchu's distinctive painting style and the vividness of mineral pigments. A newly developed silk material was specifically used for this project, ensuring remarkable color reproduction, mirroring the original artwork’s brilliance.

A Historic Exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum

The display of the high-resolution replicas at the Tokyo National Museum marks a significant milestone; it will be the first time in 100 years that 'Doshokusaie' has been exhibited since the original presentation in 1926. The exhibition will showcase a total of 30 replicas, divided into two segments — with 15 pieces displayed from April 17 to May 1, and the remaining 15 from May 2 to May 17. Additionally, the high-resolution replica of the national treasure 'Toshijizubun' by Kano Eitoku, completed in 2023, will be showcased alongside Jakuchu’s work.

Looking Ahead: New Projects on the Horizon

Keen to expand their impactful collaboration, Canon and the Cultural Properties Utilization Center plan to launch a new initiative starting in April 2026 called the 'Cultural Understanding through Replication Project'. This venture will focus on producing high-resolution replicas of national treasures held by the National Center for Cultural Properties, exploring new methods of engagement and practical applications in educational contexts.

Both organizations are committed to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japan’s cultural heritage, striving to enhance collective cultural experiences for a broader audience.

Exhibition Details

- Event Name: Imperial Palace San no Maru Shōzōkan Grand Opening Pre-Event at Hyokeikan - High-Resolution Replicas of ‘Doshokusaie’ and 'Toshijizubun'
- Exhibition Period: April 17 (Friday) - May 17 (Sunday), 2026 (First Segment: April 17 - May 1 | Second Segment: May 2 - May 17)
- Venue: Tokyo National Museum Hyokeikan, Ueno Park, Taito, Tokyo
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 30 minutes before closing) | Extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, and from May 3 to 5 until 8:00 PM
- Closed: Mondays (Open on April 27, May 4)
- Admission Fee: Free to Hyokeikan (No prior reservation needed), but entry to other museum exhibitions requires a ticket.
- Organizers: Imperial Palace San no Maru Shōzōkan
- Special Collaborators: Tokyo National Museum, Cultural Properties Utilization Center, Canon Inc., Kyoto Cultural Association (NPO)

For more details about the exhibition, please visit the Imperial Palace San no Maru Shōzōkan website here.

About the 'Tsuzuri Project'

The 'Tsuzuri Project' is an innovative social contribution initiative started in 2007 through a partnership between Canon and the Kyoto Cultural Association. This project aims to recreate Japan’s rare cultural assets, many of which have limited public viewing opportunities. Utilizing Canon’s imaging technology, the project produces high-resolution replicas that are then donated to relevant cultural institutions and public educational settings for general viewing. Over 60 replicates, including works by Katsushika Hokusai, Sotatsu Tawaraya, and Korin Ogata, have been created to date.

For further information on the 'Tsuzuri Project', please refer to the official site here.