#Japan #Tokyo #POLA Cultural Institute #Cosmetic Culture #Modern Beauty

Celebrating 50 Years of the Pola Cultural Institute

The Pola Museum Annex in Tokyo's Ginza district will host the 50th anniversary exhibition of the Pola Cultural Institute titled "Modern Beauty: The Culture of Cosmetics in Modern Times." Set to run from April 28 to May 31, 2026, this exhibition highlights the significant transformations in cosmetic culture over the centuries.

Established in 1976, the Pola Cultural Institute has dedicated itself to the understanding and preservation of cosmetic culture, which it sees as a vital part of human expression. The history of makeup in Japan can be divided into five major periods: the Shamanistic Beginnings, the Continental Influence, the Traditional Era following the end of the Tang envoys, the Modern Period leading up to the pre-war Showa era, and finally the Contemporary Era that has shaped beauty standards into the present. While the Traditional Era lasted nearly 900 years, the modern makeup phase has been characterized by rapid changes over a mere 200-year span, showcasing how beauty ideals evolve.

This exhibition intends to reflect on our current perceptions of beauty by tracing the origins and transitions of makeup and beauty standards. It offers a chance to contemplate the societal aspects of cosmetics and delve deeper into the rich culture surrounding them. This commemorative theme aligns perfectly with the Pola Cultural Institute’s mission to raise awareness and appreciation for the vast and intricate world of cosmetics.

Exhibition Details

• - Title: Pola Cultural Institute 50th Anniversary Exhibition “Modern Beauty: The Culture of Cosmetics in Modern Times”
• - Dates: April 28 (Tue) to May 31 (Sun), 2026
• - Special Closures: May 13 (Wed) and May 20 (Wed) closing at 18:00; May 24 (Sun) opening at 12:00
• - Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Entrance available until 30 minutes before closing)
• - Organizer: Pola Orbis Holdings Inc.
• - Supported by: Chuo City
• - Venue: Pola Museum Annex, 3rd Floor, Pola Ginza Building, 1-7-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Entrance Fee: Free

Related Events

Hair Styling Demonstration
Traditional hairstyling techniques will be showcased through a performance featuring the unique hairstyles of the 203 Kohchi period. Don’t miss this rare opportunity!

• - Date and Time: May 20 (Wed), 18:30 - 19:30
• - Capacity: 30 participants
• - Participation Fee: Free

Gallery Talk
Join a guided discussion where curators from the Pola Cultural Institute will highlight key features of the exhibition.

• - Sessions: ① May 13 (Wed), 18:30 - 19:00 / ② May 24 (Sun), 11:00 - 11:30
• - Capacity: 30 participants per session
• - Participation Fee: Free

For detailed information and to register for events, please visit the official Pola Museum Annex website at Pola Museum Annex. Event registrations will begin on April 1, 2026, at 11:00 AM.

Special Merchandise

Limited Edition Acrylic Keychains (Capsule Toys)
The Pola Museum Annex and the Cosmetic Culture Gallery will offer exclusive acrylic keychains for purchase, featuring a selection of 10 unique designs (5 designs available at each venue). Collect your favorites as a memorable point of your visit!

• - Price: 300 yen each (tax included)
• - Note: The contents of the capsules are random and quantities are limited.

Cosmetic Culture Stamp Rally
Visit both the Pola Museum Annex and the Cosmetic Culture Gallery to collect stamps and receive an original clear file as a commemorative gift!

• - Duration: April 28 (Tue) - May 31 (Sun), 2026
• - Please check venue websites for visiting hours. Prize quantities are limited. Each participant is eligible for one clear file during the period.

About the Pola Cultural Institute

The Pola Cultural Institute, founded on May 15, 1976, aims to academically explore cosmetics and makeup culture, viewing cosmetics as a critical aspect of human culture. The Institute is involved in collecting, preserving, researching, and disseminating knowledge about cosmetics and has amassed a remarkable collection of around 6,500 items, including rare artifacts from ancient to modern times, helping to shape the narrative of beauty in Japan.

For more details, visit the official website: Pola Cultural Institute