Ueno Marui, under the leadership of President Masahiro Aono, is set to host an exciting pop-up event titled "Cels Experience and Japanese Crafts Market - Drawing Experience and Craft Selection" at the 5th floor Calendarium from July 18 to August 2, 2026. This event showcases a wonderful blend of traditional Japanese crafts and the nostalgic art of anime.
Visitors can look forward to exploring a variety of craftworks, including pieces from esteemed living national treasures such as the renowned craftsmen GoDai Ito Sekisui and Yoshizo Kawakita. The exhibition will feature remarkable items from ceramics and woodcrafts, well-known regional specialties like Kutani-yaki and Arita-yaki, as well as unique Edo Kimekomi dolls and Bizen pottery. Attendees will have the opportunity to appreciate the skill and passion embedded in each artwork while perhaps selecting their own favorites to bring home, thus adding a touch of traditional crafts to their daily lives.
As much as the crafts are a highlight, the experience doesn’t end there. The event will also include a special workshop where participants can try their hand at creating traditional "cels"—a technique that was once the foundation of Japanese animation production. In today's world, where digital methods dominate, chances to engage in this classic form of art are becoming rare. Attendees can immerse themselves in the joy of crafting, experiencing firsthand the delicate layering and vibrant colors of cels. The workshop materials have been specially prepared for easy access, allowing anyone to enjoy this unique art form.
Event Features
-
Craft Exhibition: Browse the works of various masters
including the likes of Junbi Isezaki (Bizen pottery, Living National Treasure) and Ikko Imaizumi (color Nabeshima, Living National Treasure), along with many others celebrated for their dedication to preserving traditional techniques. Participants can contemplate the textures and beauty of items such as an array of Kutani-yaki vases or Edo Kimekomi's symbolic beckoning cat dolls.
-
Workshop Experiences: There are multiple experiential courses available, each designed to fit different interests and skill levels:
-
Photo Frame Course: Create a frame that showcases your favorite photos, using the cel-making technique. Approximately required time: 30 minutes, cost: ¥4,400 (tax included).
-
Experience Course: Color designated characters and experience the vividness of cel art in an engaging way. Approximately required time: 30 minutes, cost: ¥4,400 (tax included).
-
Authentic Course: Interested in diving deeper? Create two cels using multiple colors under the guidance of professionals. Approximately required time: 90 minutes, cost: ¥13,200 (tax included).
The event presents a splendid opportunity for lovers of both anime and traditional arts to enjoy a well-crafted experience that binds the past and present of Japanese culture. The workshop reservations are available online, making it easy for interested participants to sign up in advance.
Company Background
Kameya Japan Tradition Co., Ltd. aims to connect contemporary living with the richness of Japanese crafts and culture by showcasing living national treasures and offering workshops that allow personal interaction with the arts. Their commitment enhances appreciation and encourage individuals to incorporate crafted items into their daily routines.
Event Details
-
Dates: July 18 - August 2, 2026
-
Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Note: This differs from regular store hours)
-
Location: Ueno Marui, 5th Floor Calendarium
Don't miss out on this unique convergence of traditional culture and modern artistry at Ueno Marui. Join to celebrate the rich heritage of Japan while engaging in hands-on excitement all at one location. For more information and registrations, please visit
Kameya Japan Tradition's official website.