An Immersive Experience: The Yokai Exhibition and Hatenko Perfume Collaboration
The upcoming "Yokai Exhibition NAGOYA - Imagination of Japan -" is set to unveil a captivating blend of digital art and scent, thanks to a unique collaboration with the fragrance brand Hatenko. This pioneering exhibition, launched by the Yokai Exhibition NAGOYA executive committee, including TV Aichi, Hitotachi, and Jiji Press, will take place from July 19 to September 23, 2025, at the Kanayama South Building Art Museum in Nagoya, Japan.
The Essence of Collaboration
The exhibition will feature two distinct areas: "Yokai Great Dance" and "Yokai Wisteria Corridor," where visitors can experience an intricate interplay of scents that enhance the visual narrative. This innovative approach merges realistic fragrance experiences with stunning visuals and soundscapes, heightening the immersive atmosphere of the Yokai world. Additionally, the various fragrances showcased at the event will be available for purchase in the venue's merchandise area, allowing guests to take home a piece of the enchanting experience.
About Hatenko
Founded by Kyarainnovate, a company dedicated to promoting Japanese craftsmanship, Hatenko is known for its bold and unconventional perfumery. The brand's meticulous focus on collaboration merges traditional Japanese techniques, such as Kiso cypress and Kaga Yuzen, into innovative fragrance designs. By marrying unique materials, Hatenko aims to create profound connections across cultures and generations.
The Fragrance Experience: An Intriguing Dive
One standout in the Hatenko collection is the "Odorodor" fragrance, inspired by Utagawa Kuniyoshi’s artwork depicting haunting scenes from folklore. This fragrance captures the enigmatic chill of the night and the mysterious allure of the supernatural, amplifying the vivid portrayals of Yokai in the exhibition.
- - Types: Five distinct Eau de Parfums, including "Odorodor" (lasting approximately 5-6 hours)
- - Volume: Each 50 mL
- - Price: Each priced at 13,200 JPY (tax inclusive)
- - Availability: Available at the Yokai Exhibition venue, select shops nationwide and through bookstores.
Sourcing Artistry from PERfumers
In addition to Hatenko, the exhibition will feature fragrances by "PERfumers with scent," a brand committed to producing and crafting fragrances entirely within Japan. The name represents the artistic essence of perfumers, similar to painters or musicians. These artisans emphasize scents that resonate with emotions and evoke memories.
- - Highlight Fragrance: The wisteria scent from the "PERfumers with scent" collection infuses the Yokai Wisteria Corridor, generating a wonderfully ethereal environment.
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Products: Diffuser (3,740 JPY), Roll-on Perfume (2,090 JPY), and Gift Box (3,630 JPY).
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Where to Buy: Available at the Yokai Exhibition and various retailers, including inimu Asakusa and inimu Web Shop.
Event Details
The "Yokai Exhibition NAGOYA - Imagination of Japan -" stands as the world’s first immersive digital art museum focusing on Yokai culture, showcasing artwork from Edo and Meiji periods, such as the "Hyakumonogatari" and the various types of Yokai depicted in traditional Japanese art.
With collaborations from the Nishio Iwase Bunko, Japan’s first old book museum, and the Yokai Museum in Shodoshima, visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of Yokai culture through art, stories, and cutting-edge technology. This event is designed to captivate both children and adults alike, offering a brand new artistic entertainment experience.
Exhibition Logistics:
- - Dates: July 19 to September 23, 2025, open daily from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM).
- - Location: Kanayama South Building Art Museum (formerly the Nagoya Boston Museum), 1-1-1 Kanayamacho, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture.
- - Organizer: Yokai Exhibition NAGOYA Executive Committee (TV Aichi, Hitotachi, Jiji Press)
- - Co-hosts: Chunichi Shimbun and Nikkei.
- - Special Sponsors: Nishio Iwase Bunko and Yokai Museum (Shodoshima).
- - Collaborators: Yamaha and Kyarainnovate.
- - Support: Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City, Nagoya Board of Education, FM AICHI, and ZIP-FM.
For details on tickets and the latest information, please visit the official website:
Yokai Immersive.
Company Overview: Kyarainnovate
Kyarainnovate focuses on highlighting regional traditions and culture while producing fragrances made in Japan.
- - Location: 2-10-8 Hanakawado, Taito, Tokyo, Japan (Grace Heim Someya, 1F)
- - CEO: Atsushi Shimizu
- - Business Activities: Original product planning/production (merchandise and cosmetics), OEM planning, wholesale/retail sales, and e-commerce operations.
- - Established: January 31, 2008
- - Website: Kyarainnovate