Suntory Museum Exhibition: A Celebration of Watanabe and Tea Ceremony Masterpieces
The Suntory Museum of Art, located in the vibrant district of Roppongi, Tokyo, is set to host a highly anticipated exhibition titled "Watanabe and Tea Ceremony Masterpieces" from September 16 to November 8, 2026. This exhibition is a rare opportunity to delve into the exquisite collection curated by the esteemed Itō Memorial Museum, showcasing exceptional works by artists Watanabe and the rich tradition of tea ceremony artifacts.
The Itō Memorial Museum, named after its founder Kobayashi Ichizō, a prominent businessman and art patron in modern Japan, boasts a vast collection that reflects a confluence of Japan's cultural and aesthetic advancements. Established in 1957, the museum features over 5,500 pieces spanning various art forms, including classical manuscripts and tea utensils, all encapsulating the spirit of creativity and cultural appreciation that Kobayashi embodied during his lifetime.
Exhibition Details
This exhibition will highlight selected masterpieces from the Itō Memorial Museum collection, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of Watanabe and the intricate world of tea ceremonies. The exhibition is divided into two parts: the first segment will run from September 16 to October 12, followed by the second segment from October 14 to November 8, to ensure the preservation of the works on display.
General Information
- - Opening Hours: The museum will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours until 8 PM on Fridays and November 7, 2026. Please note that on October 31, special late-night access is available due to Roppongi Art Night.
- - Admission Fees:
- Regular tickets: 1,700 JPY
- University students: 1,200 JPY
- High school students: 1,000 JPY
- Advance tickets: 1,500 JPY for general admission, with discounts available for students. Junior high school students and younger can enter for free.
The Suntory Museum is located at 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, on the third floor of the Tokyo Midtown Galleria. Access is seamless via various subway lines, including direct connections from Roppongi Station.
Collaborations and Support
The exhibition is organized by the Suntory Museum of Art and receives generous support from major collaborators such as Mitsui Fudosan, Kajima Corporation, and Takenaka Corporation, along with special cooperation from the Itō Cultural Foundation. The involvement of prestigious entities like the Hankyu Railway and Takarazuka Revue adds an additional cultural dimension to the exhibition.
With this exhibition, the Suntory Museum invites both art enthusiasts and the general public to explore the legacy of Watanabe and the elegant traditions of tea ceremonies. This significant cultural event promises to enrich the cultural landscape of Tokyo and strengthen the appreciation of Japan's artistic heritage.
For more information, please contact the museum at 03-3479-8600 or visit their official website at
Suntory Museum of Art. Do not miss out on this outstanding exhibition that beautifully weaves together art, history, and tradition!