#Japan #Ceramics #Musashino Art University #Wagashi #Koda City, Tokyo

Exhibition: "Wares and Wagashi"

Musashino Art University, located in Koda City, Tokyo, is hosting a fascinating exhibition titled "Wares and Wagashi" from May 9 to May 16, 2026, at the Takadanobaba campus, and from May 29 to May 31, 2026, at the Ichigaya campus. This event celebrates the artistry of ceramics inspired by traditional Japanese sweets, specifically those crafted by the esteemed wagashi shop, Toraya.

Exhibition Overview

This exhibition marks the 11th iteration of a project by the Craft Design Course focusing on ceramic arts, involving 16 talented students from the university. Their creations are influenced by the exquisite confections from Toraya, allowing for a deep exploration of the relationship between sweets and their serving ware.

The creative process began during the summer of 2025 when students toured various wagashi shops, growing their understanding of these traditional delicacies and reflecting on how presentation enhances the experience. Each student employed various ceramic techniques to refine their artistic designs.

Prepare to be inspired as you view the diverse interpretations of "Wares and Wagashi" from these aspiring artisans at both campuses.

Takadanobaba Campus Details:

• - Dates: May 9 (Sat) – May 16 (Sat), 2026
• - Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• - Venue: 14th Building, Basement Exhibition Room, Musashino Art University, 1-736 Ogawacho, Koda City, Tokyo
• - Admission: Free, no reservation required
• - Transportation: 18-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station on the Seibu Kokubunji Line; take a bus from Kokubunji Station for 25 minutes.

Ichigaya Campus Details:

• - Dates: May 29 (Fri) – May 31 (Sun), 2026 (Last day until 5:00 PM)
• - Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Ends at 5:00 PM on the last day)
• - Venue: 2nd Floor, 1/M, Ichigaya Campus, Musashino Art University, 1-4 Ichigayatacho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
• - Admission: Free, no reservation required
• - Transportation: 3-minute walk from Ichigaya Station on JR Chuo and Sobu Lines, or from the Tokyo Metro.

Special Workshops

In conjunction with the exhibition, students from the Craft Design Course will conduct special workshops. Participants will engage in hands-on experiences based on the production processes taught at the university.

During the workshop, participants will create sweets containers using techniques such as slab-building and decorative slip application. The entire process—production, firing, evaluation, and finally using the created items—will be covered in two sessions, allowing participants to experience every step in bringing their ceramics to life, under the guidance of dedicated undergraduate students.

Workshop Details:

• - Target Audience: Middle and high school students, and those considering attending the university.
• - 1st Workshop:

- Date: May 9 (Sat)
- Time: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- Venue: 14th Building, 1st Floor, Throwing Room, Takadanobaba Campus
- Capacity: 6 participants per session

• - 2nd Workshop:

- Date: May 16 (Sat)
- Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM / 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
- Venue: 14th Building, Basement Exhibition Room, Takadanobaba Campus
- Capacity: 6 participants per session

For more details and to apply, please check the university’s official website.

About Musashino Art University

As we approach its centennial in 2029, Musashino Art University, founded in 1929, aims to cultivate well-rounded artists and designers through a rich educational philosophy. The university comprises two faculties specializing in a variety of arts, offering 12 dedicated courses, including painting, sculpture, design, architecture, and more.

With over 77,000 graduates contributing to creative fields worldwide, Musashino has established itself as a leading institution. Our programs foster the critical thinking and creative expression necessary in today's society, nurturing professionals who excel across diverse industries.

For inquiries related to this exhibition, please contact the Musashino Art University Collaboration and Co-Creation Team at 03-5206-5311 or email [email protected].