Experience the Splendor of Edo Painting at the Tokyo Museum's Special Exhibition

Celebrate 100 Years of Tokyo Museum

The Tokyo Museum is set to commemorate its 100th anniversary with a spectacular exhibition titled "The British Museum's Japanese Art Collection: A Floral Celebration of Edo Painting Across the Sea." This exhibition will run from July 25 to October 18, 2026, at the Tokyo Museum in Ueno Park. Visitors can expect a variety of exciting offerings to enrich their experience, including exclusive merchandise, collaborations, and events.

Exclusive Merchandise to Cherish

The exhibition will feature an array of original goods inspired by the themes and artworks from the Edo period. Among the highlights are delightful plush toys and humorous mascots that are sure to brighten any space. Featured items include:
- Plush Toy: Tiger Cub Transfer Screen - 4,400 yen (tax included)
- Mascot Keychain: Cat's Name Cuttlefish - 2,640 yen
- Mascot Keychain: Frog and Rabbit Sumo - 2,640 yen
- Mascot Keychain: Trendy Octopus Play - 2,640 yen
- Plush Toy: Cat on a Melon Pulled by a Rat - 4,400 yen

In addition, artwork from renowned artists like Katsushika Hokusai will be transformed into everyday items, such as:
- Cushion featuring Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa - 11,000 yen
- Folding Fan: Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa - 2,860 yen
- Sacoche: Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa - 3,300 yen
- Card Case: Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa - 2,640 yen
- Puzzle: Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa - 4,400 yen
- Eyewear Case with Cleaning Cloth: Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa - 3,960 yen

A collaboration with companies brings beautifully designed snack items, such as a collaboration can filled with Darjeeling cookies, adorned with Hokusai's wave motifs. Furthermore, a sophisticated cookie assortment inspired by Maruyama Okyo's floral and bird designs is perfect for gifting.

Culinary Collaborations

From July 25 to October 18, 2026, the Shinagawa Prince Hotel will host special menu items inspired by the renowned Edo paintings featured in the exhibition. Guests can enjoy a delightful banquet called "Flowering Splendor Plate" and "Little Flower Bento" at the Japanese restaurant located on the 38th floor of the hotel, operated by the main tower. Reservations are recommended as space is limited.

Special Fair at Ueno Marui

Ueno Marui will also celebrate the exhibition by curating a selection of products reflecting both Japanese and British inspirations, enhancing the overall experience of visitors who explore the exhibition and enjoy exclusive merchandise and menu items available there.

No Admission Fee for Students

In an effort to foster engagement with younger audiences, the exhibition will offer free entry to university and vocational school students from July 28 to August 7, on weekdays only. Students under 18 and high school students can also enjoy complimentary access throughout the exhibition period, provided they present valid identification.

Journey Through Cultural History

The British Museum, established in 1753, is one of the most renowned museums worldwide, housing one of the most comprehensive collections of Japanese art outside Japan. This collection reflects the significant historical and cultural exchanges that occurred between Japan and the UK after the Japonisme movement began in the late 19th century. The exhibition will showcase notable works, including Kitagawa Utamaro's precious painting The Courtesan Reading and Katsushika Hokusai's Draft for the Great Wave, along with other magnificent artifacts from the Edo period.

Through this special exhibition, attendees can revisit the history of international cultural exchange while engaging deeply with the significant art pieces preserved by the British Museum. This experience aims to open new dialogues between the heritage of Japanese art and today's audiences, making it a must-see event.

For more details, visit the official website of the exhibition: Tokyo Museum 100th Anniversary Exhibition.

Event Details

- Exhibition Name: The British Museum's Japanese Art Collection: A Floral Celebration of Edo Painting Across the Sea
- Venue: Tokyo Museum, Ueno Park, Tokyo, Japan
- Duration: July 25, 2026 - October 18, 2026
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Fridays until 8:00 PM)
- Closed on: Mondays and October 13
- Organizers: Tokyo Museum, British Museum, Asahi Shimbun, NHK
- Official SNS: X | Instagram