Celebrating 20 Years of Kyushu National Museum with Unique Merchandise

Kyushu National Museum Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Exclusive Merchandise

In October 2025, the Kyushu National Museum located in Dazaifu, Fukuoka Prefecture, will celebrate its 20th anniversary. In honor of this milestone, the museum's shop, operated by AUC Corporation, has launched a special line of merchandise titled "Kyushu National Museum 20th Anniversary Goods."

The exclusive items feature motifs from the museum's unique collections, including ancient burial mounds, haniwa (ceramic figures), and even traditional Japanese pottery. Among the highlighted products are tote bags and pouches that allow visitors to take home a tangible reminder of their historical explorations. Each item is infused with originality and is sure to attract collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Collaborating with Experts for a Unique Collection

The development of these special goods involved a collaboration with Mari Hashimoto, a prominent curator and cultural producer. Hashimoto's insights have significantly enriched the creative process, resulting in a collection that reflects both the museum's identity and its mission to preserve and convey cultural heritage.

Hashimoto has emphasized that the project is about creating items that serve as memorable tokens, enabling visitors to carry a piece of their experience back home, transcending geographical and temporal boundaries. The collaboration resulted in a total of five unique products, each accompanied by Hashimoto's commentary that outlines the inspiration and significance behind the designs.

Featured Products

1. Haniwa Deer Tote Bag - ¥3,300 (tax included)
This tote bag showcases the adorable Haniwa Deer, known for its charming pose that evokes feelings of nostalgia. The bag's design allows it to be appreciated from multiple angles, perfect for carrying A4 documents while exploring both urban environments and historical sites. The authentic color inspired by actual haniwa figures adds to the uniqueness of this functional yet artistic item.

2. Cultural Tea Set - ¥1,900 (tax included)
This tea set blends Indian sarasa textiles with locally sourced Japanese black tea. Each package features vibrant sarasa designs, capturing the essence of cultural exchange. The tea included is from Yame in Fukuoka, showcasing the rich flavors infused with historical significance.

3. Decorative Tomb Pouch - ¥2,000 (tax included)
Crafted to resemble Japan's decorative tombs, this pouch is a testament to meticulous research and design. Its intricate embroidery reflects the unique motifs found in ancient burial mounds, making it not just a practical accessory, but also an insightful piece of history.

4. Spice Cookie in the Shape of a Ship - ¥1,200 (tax included)
These cinnamon-flavored cookies come packaged in a box shaped like the ships that carried envoys to Tang Dynasty China. The nostalgic design pays homage to Japan's rich history of cultural exchange.

5. Oni-gawara Reflector Tote - ¥1,800 (tax included)
Modeled after the oni-gawara (demon tiles) that adorned roofs in ancient Japan, this tote bag features reflector printing, enhancing visibility during nighttime travel. This modern reinterpretation of an ancient talisman symbolizes protection while serving a practical purpose in contemporary life.

Unique Cultural Insights from a Renowned Curator

As a cultural producer and columnist, Mari Hashimoto is deeply engaged in various artistic fields, providing commentary and curation for numerous exhibitions. Her collaboration with the Kyushu National Museum has led to the creation of products that are deeply infused with historical narratives and aesthetic appeal. Hashimoto’s compelling insights enrich the museum's offerings, encouraging visitors to cherish and engage with history on a personal level.

Each of the items in the 20th-anniversary collection represents more than mere souvenirs; they serve as vessels for the rich stories and experiences tied to the Kyushu National Museum. Visitors are invited to explore this unique collection when they visit the museum, which promises an enriching encounter with the art and culture of Japan.

Museum Shop Details

The museum shop is not only home to these 20th-anniversary products but also features a vast range of original merchandise, from plush toys to educational materials. The shop is managed by the charming mascot, Hani-ten, a haniwa girl who keeps the atmosphere light and engaging for all visitors. As the special anniversary approaches, a dedicated display showcasing these exclusive items will be installed in the shop, both in-store and online.

Summary

The Kyushu National Museum stands as a testament to the cultural heritage of Japan, with its 20 years of dedication to education and preservation. As they celebrate this important milestone, the museum continues to invite visitors to connect with the past through unique merchandise that embodies the spirit of exploration and learning.