Discovering the World of Isao Takahata: A Special Exhibition on Japanese Animation

Discovering the World of Isao Takahata

The Azabudai Hills Gallery is thrilled to announce key details for the upcoming exhibition, "Isao Takahata: The Man Who Created Japanese Animation". This exhibition not only commemorates the career of the legendary animator but also celebrates key anniversaries: Takahata's 90th birthday and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a pivotal event that deeply influenced his work.

Main Visuals Highlighting Takahata’s Legacy

The main visuals for the exhibition are drawn from two of Takahata's classic films: "Grave of the Fireflies" and "Pom Poko". These films represent some of his most impactful storytelling, exploring themes of loss, survival, and the complexities of nature. Visitors can expect a rich experience in the exhibition, featuring never-before-seen cels and backgrounds from these beloved titles, alongside significant pieces that highlight the beauty of his animation style.

Exciting Discoveries and Features

Among the unique offerings, the exhibition will present a previously unreleased cut from Grave of the Fireflies, discovered and contributed by renowned director Hideaki Anno, known for his work on Neon Genesis Evangelion. This extraordinary find includes layout art featuring the heavy cruiser Maya, promising to offer an emotive glimpse into the detailed world of Takahata's creations.

Furthermore, attendees will have the opportunity to delve deeper into Takahata's artistry through a specially curated audio guide, voiced by Hikaru Ijuin and accompanied by renowned voice actress Saki Tamagawa. This will provide context and commentary on the artwork displayed, enriching the visitor experience. Additionally, a curated playlist selected by director Shunji Iwai will accompany the exhibition, offering a unique auditory journey alongside visual storytelling.

Ticket Information and Special Offers

Advance ticket sales for the exhibition are set to launch on May 23, 2025, at 11:30. Ticket prices are as follows:

- General: 1,800 yen in advance, 2,000 yen at the door.
- Students (Special/University/High School): 1,500 yen in advance, 1,700 yen at the door.
- Children (Ages 4 to Middle School): 1,200 yen in advance, 1,400 yen at the door.

A special weekend discount is available for attendees of the ongoing Ghibli Museum Exhibition, offering a 200 yen reduction on ticket prices when the corresponding ticket stub is presented.

Weekday Attendance Incentives

To enhance the experience further, guests visiting on weekdays will receive a limited-edition paper case featuring unique designs for each day of the week, along with illustrations of Takahata created by artist Hisaichi Ishii. This collectible promotes not only the exhibition but also the legacy of Takahata's work, offering an engaging way to remember the visit.

Evening Tours and Expert Guidance

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Takahata’s mastery, the exhibition will also feature guided evening tours conducted by Chigeyoshi Tanaka from the Ghibli Museum. Scheduled for July 1 and July 8, these tours will explore the nuances of the artworks on display, providing insights that enrich the overarching narrative of Takahata's influential animation.

As the excitement for the exhibition grows, it is clear that this will be a landmark event for fans of Japanese animation and a tribute to the extraordinary life and achievements of Isao Takahata. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this remarkable celebration!