#Japan #Fukuoka #Kyushu National Museum #Dazaifu Iinoji #M Cafe

Discover Culinary Art at the Dazaifu Collaboration

The historic city of Dazaifu, renowned for its cultural heritage, is set to intertwine culinary art and visual masterpieces in a delightful collaboration between Dazaifu Iinoji and M Cafe. From April 21 to June 14, 2026, visitors to the Kyushu National Museum can enjoy a specially curated menu that celebrates the special exhibition, 'Jakuchu, Rinpa, and the Beauty of Kyoto - The Radiance of the Hosomi Collection.' This exhibition showcases the brilliance of Edo period artists, emphasizing the works of Jakuchu - a celebrated painter known for his vivid representation of nature.

To commemorate this unique showcase, Dazaifu Iinoji and M Cafe have crafted a series of exquisite dishes and beverages that are not just meals but artistic experiences themselves. Here’s a closer look at what you can savor during this limited-time engagement.

Dazaifu Iinoji: Traditional Delights

• - Hakata Jidori Kuwayaki Set (¥2,000): Leaning into traditional cooking methods, this meal honors a centuries-old practice where meat and vegetables were grilled on a hoe during breaks from farming. Featuring the local flagship chicken, Hakata Jidori, this dish is marinated in a special sweet-spicy sauce, showcasing the gourmet flavors of Fukuoka.

• - Duck Nanban Soba (¥1,400): Experience the robust flavors of duck paired with soba noodles, artfully echoing the dynamic energy depicted in Jakuchu’s paintings. This dish is a modern homage to Edo period culinary traditions, served in a refined broth that enhances its depth.

• - Uji Matcha Ice Cream Parfait (¥1,200): This enchanting dessert captures the essence of Kyoto through rich Uji matcha ice cream. Its vibrant layers symbolize Jakuchu's intricate and colorful artistic style, creating a visual and flavorful delight.

• - Kingyo Bachi Blue Cola (¥880): Inspired by the artwork 'Kingyodama Zu' by Rinpa school artist Kamisaka Sekka, this drink combines refreshing visual appeal with a complex taste profile—a sparkling drink infused with various spices.

M Cafe: The Art of Dessert

M Cafe refines artistic flair through a specifically designed menu that transforms iconic motifs from the exhibition into delightful treats.

• - Goldfish Jelly Parfait (¥860): Experience a whimsical take on Jakuchu's animal illustrations through this visually stunning parfait, which features a playful, transparent jelly that reflects the movement of fish in water.

• - Uji Matcha Green Tea Latte (¥830): This drink perfectly balances the deep, earthy flavors of Uji matcha with smooth cream, encapsulating the tranquility often associated with Kyoto.

• - Kingyo Bachi Blue Cola: Also available at M Cafe, this exhilarating drink mirrors the refreshing beauty of the ornamental goldfish bowl while offering an intriguing blend of spices.

Special Exhibition Details

The exhibition runs from April 21 through June 14, 2026, with a split schedule allowing visitors to appreciate both early and late collections. The museum’s operating hours, daily from Tuesday to Sunday, offer flexibility for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

• - Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Tues-Fri), extended until 7:00 PM on Saturdays.
• - Museum Closed: Every Monday, with special openings during public holidays.

For those interested in experiencing this blend of art and cuisine, don't forget to visit the official websites of Kyushu National Museum for more exhibition details and Dazaifu Iinoji to reserve your dining experience.

As the exhibition and these culinary concoctions unfold, they promise to reshape how we view traditional art forms—not only as endeavors of vision but as flavors that can be tasted and appreciated in a communal setting. Prepare to indulge your senses in a blend of artistic expression that transcends centuries!