Experience the Elegance of Premium Buddhist Altars at Matsuya Ginza

Discover the Elegance of Premium Buddhist Altars at Matsuya Ginza

From January 29 to February 2, 2026, Matsuya Ginza will host an exclusive exhibition titled "Living with Wood II", showcasing premium Buddhist altars and wooden reliquaries crafted by skilled artisans from Aizu, Japan. This highly anticipated event celebrates the remarkable craftsmanship of Arte Meister, a storied Buddhist altar manufacturer with a legacy spanning 125 years. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to appreciate and acquire limited-edition pieces that symbolize the evolution of prayer practices through exquisite design and quality.

Event Details

- Location: Matsuya Ginza, 8th Floor Event Square
- Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

On Sundays or the last day of long weekends, the closing time will be at 7:30 PM. Closing time on the final day is at 5:00 PM.

- Date: January 29 (Thursday) – February 2 (Monday), 2026

Featured Limited Edition Altars

Suiju (粋壽) – Limited to 1 Item

Price: ¥16,500,000 (tax included)
Dimensions: Height 95 cm x Width 57 cm x Depth 57 cm, Stand Height 3.9 cm x Width 70.2 cm x Depth 70 cm
Material: Paulownia wood with silver leaf finishing
This striking altar features a vibrant emerald green hue and showcases luxurious maki-e artwork recreating the Yoshinoyama screen with gold and platinum leaf behind its doors. An epitome of artisanal excellence, this limited item celebrates both beauty and skill.

Keigetsu (桂月) – Limited to 1 Item

Price: ¥3,300,000 (tax included)
Dimensions: Height 72.4 cm x Width 55 cm x Depth 43.6 cm
Material: Yakusugi (Japanese cedar from Yakushima)
Crafted from Yakusugi, a rare cedar known for its beauty and age, this altar reflects a unique character and craftsmanship, making it a one-of-a-kind prayer form perfectly suited for individual devotion.

Shoju (松壽) – Limited to 2 Items Each for Keyaki and Shitan

Price: ¥1,100,000 (tax included) each
Dimensions: Height 47.6 cm x Width 36.2 cm x Depth 30.2 cm
Materials: Keyaki and Shitan wood
With a design that incorporates prosperous symbols of pine and cranes along with intricate motifs, these altars are artistically finished with the utmost care. Two pieces are available for both Keyaki and Shitan, providing a robust yet elegant representation of traditional craftsmanship.

Shojo (勝常) – Limited to 2 Items, Horizontal Lacquered Style

Price: ¥748,000 (tax included)
Dimensions: Height 27.3 cm x Width 39.0 cm x Depth 18.6 cm
Material: Keyaki wood (lacquered with an open coat)
Inspired by the beautiful roof of the Katsujoji Yakushido in Aizu, this horizontal altar merges magnificence and sanctity, made from locally sourced lacquer, boasting exquisite wood grain.

Additional Offerings During the Exhibition

Accompanying the altar display, consultation services related to Buddhist altar renovations and broader Buddhist practices will be available. Visitors are encouraged to discuss their needs freely; pre-booking ensures that knowledgeable staff will be ready to assist.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please visit the 7th floor – Chusi-ya, Matsuya Ginza, Contact: Egahara.

Concurrent Exhibition: "Living with Prayer"

On the 7th floor, a collaborative exhibition with craft artists and designers will be held, featuring altars and related items that blend tradition with modern aesthetics. This provides attendees an opportunity to explore praying items integrated into daily life.

- Dates: January 28 (Wednesday) – February 3 (Tuesday), 2026
- Time: Doors open at noon on the first day and close at 5:00 PM on the final day.

For more details about business hours, please visit the Matsuya Ginza website.

Join us at Matsuya Ginza to experience this occasion where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary spirituality, and find a unique piece to cherish for generations.