#Japan #Tokyo #Art Exhibition #Seikado Bunko #Exclusive Merch

Art Exhibition Collaboration at Seikado Bunko Museum

An exciting collaboration between Yomiuri Shimbun's Art Exhibition Navigation service and the Seikado Bunko Museum in Marunouchi, Tokyo, is set to launch original merchandise for the upcoming exhibition titled Understanding the Mysteries of Gods, Buddhas, and People on July 5, 2025. The exhibition will run until September 23, 2025, encouraging both children and adults to delve into the fascinating stories and conventions represented in ancient artworks.

The exhibition focuses on the depictions of deities, buddhas, and human figures in Japanese art, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. Visitors will be guided through the significance of the poses and gestures of the characters, offering insights into the rules and narratives that breathe life into these historical figures.

To enhance the experience, the collaborative merchandise, conceptualized and developed over three months, includes a diverse range of items aimed at enriching the enjoyment of the exhibition during the summer vacation. The original products will be available at the museum shop when the exhibition opens and will later be featured on the online store, although prices may vary between the two.

Featured Merchandise

1. Velvet Handkerchiefs - Priced at 2,000 yen (tax included), these handkerchiefs are a collaboration with the Japanese towel brand Hotman. They feature exquisite embroidery of a deer depicted in the 'Kasuga Temple Mandala' across a rich wine and blue-green velvet fabric.

2. Uchiwa Fan - Available for 770 yen (tax included), this fan showcases a charming design inspired by a princess glimpsed through a modest curtain in the Shidai Futo Uta Aiwagaki. Its slim, lightweight design makes it practical to carry during the hot summer days.

3. Mini Acrylic Stands - Priced at 550 yen (tax included), these adorable mini acrylic stands feature characters from the illustrated storybook Daikuirakan, illustrating a battle for the dragon king's jewel. Each stand comes with a ball chain and will be sold in a mystery format, with one out of four designs included.

4. Clear Tote Bag - Inspired by the museum's national treasure, the 'Yōhen Tenmoku' tea bowl, this clear tote bag retails for 2,700 yen (tax included). It creatively borrows the bowl's iconic speckled pattern, refined for contemporary use.

5. Cute Uchiwa Fans - Each available for 770 yen (tax included), these fans feature adorable designs inspired by original artworks, such as a cats-and-morning-glory scene by Haru Zaiaki and a serene frog in a lotus pool by Sakai Hoitsu, combining artistry with functionality.

The full details of the exhibition merchandise are available on the Art Exhibition Navigation website, which offers extensive insights into the featured products.

Exhibition Details

• - Duration: July 5, 2025 - September 23, 2025

- First Session: July 5 - August 11, 2025
- Second Session: August 13 - September 23, 2025

• - Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)

- Extended hours on select dates, including July 21, August 11, September 15 and 22

• - Venue: Seikado Bunko Museum, Marunouchi, Tokyo
• - Admission: General 1,500 yen, High School/University Students 1,000 yen, Free for Children under Middle School Age
• - Official Website: Seikado Bunko Museum

About Art Exhibition Navigation

Launched in 2017 by Yomiuri Shimbun, Art Exhibition Navigation has become a comprehensive platform for art enthusiasts, attracting approximately 4 million monthly visitors. With the introduction of ticket apps and an online store in 2019 and 2023 respectively, it provides a holistic service for art fans, including exhibitions' tickets and merchandise. Starting in 2025, collaborative merchandise development with various museums will be initiated, beginning with the items created in partnership with Seikado Bunko Museum.