#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese art #Meiji Jingu #Imperial Culture

Overview of the Exhibition: "Flowers and Imperial Culture"

During the spring, the beauty of flowers has historically been intertwined with Japan's cultural identity, forming one of the key aesthetics of our nation. Their delicate beauty, transience, and vibrancy resonate through various art forms, influencing not only paintings and poetry but also textiles and ceremonial items adorned with auspicious motifs.

The foyer of the exhibition will spotlight artifacts belonging to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, emphasizing the floral designs that have enriched Japan’s imperial heritage. Visitors will experience the splendid beauty of flowers as represented throughout history and their significance in Japanese culture.

Highlights of the Exhibition

As part of the exhibition, the following notable items will be displayed:

• - Princess Takamatsu's Costume: Featuring intricate floral motifs from the period of Emperor Meiji.
• - Emperor Meiji’s Trinket Drawer: A splendid artifact showcasing refined craftsmanship.
• - Princess Sayako's Dog Crate: A unique item that reflects the connection between imperial culture and the domestic realm.
• - Empress Shōken's Bento Box: An exquisite example of ceremonial dining reflecting elegance and tradition.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Name: Flowers and Imperial Culture
• - Duration: March 28, 2026 - June 21, 2026
• - Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
• - Closed: Every Thursday
• - Organizer: Meiji Jingu
• - Partner: Meiji Jingu Association (free entry for members)
• - Location: Meiji Jingu Museum
• - Admission Fee: General: ¥1,000, Students (high school and below) and groups (20+): ¥900. Special access for disabled individuals and free entry for children under primary school age (must be accompanied by an adult).

Continuous Lecture Series: "The Interesting Aspects of Japanese Painting"

Furthermore, the museum is thrilled to host a continuous lecture series titled "The Interesting Aspects of Japanese Painting," led by the museum's director, Mr. Taizo Kuroda, a long-time researcher of Japanese art history. This series aims to uncover the fascinating details of Japanese paintings, focusing on selected works that highlight their unique qualities.

• - Lecturer: Taizo Kuroda (Director of Meiji Jingu Museum)
• - Venue: 1F Lobby of Meiji Jingu Museum (held on Thursdays)
• - Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
• - Capacity: 30 participants
• - Participation Fee: Admission ticket only (payable on the day)
• - Session Dates:

- April 16 & April 23: Research on Hasegawa Tohaku
- May 21 & May 28: Studies of Edo Period Culture
- June 4 & June 18: Studies on Literati Paintings

Participants have the option to attend all six sessions or join two at a time. Note that the content of this series will closely resemble that of a similar course offered two years ago.

How to Register

To register for the lectures, please visit the official Meiji Jingu website or scan the QR code provided to access the registration form through official X.

Venue Information

• - Name: Meiji Jingu Museum
• - Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
• - Closed: Every Thursday (open on national holidays, but closed during exhibit changes)
• - Address: 1-1 Yoyogi Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - Access: 5-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station (Omotesando Exit) and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Fukutoshin Line (Exit 2)
• - Phone: 03-3379-5875
• - Website: Meiji Jingu Museum
• - Official X: Twitter/Meiji_Jingu_M

About Meiji Jingu Museum

The Meiji Jingu Museum was established to preserve and display artifacts related to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, the deities enshrined in Meiji Jingu. Opened in October 2019 as a part of the centennial celebration of the shrine, it was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The museum not only makes the deities' treasured items accessible to the public but also shares insights into the history of Meiji Jingu and its ongoing activities.