#Japan #Tokyo #Ikebukuro #Edogawa Rampo #Toshima Festival

Celebrating Edogawa Rampo's Legacy with the Toshima Rampo Festival

From May 15, 2025, the Toshima Rampo Festival will unfold across Ikebukuro, commemorating the reopening of Edogawa Rampo's former residence and storehouse, designated as a tangible cultural asset by Toshima City. This festival, supported by Rikkyo University, Tobu Department Store, and the Toshima ward government, promises to immerse participants in the world of Rampo and the mystery genre.

The Edogawa Rampo Estate, managed by Rikkyo University, has undergone a significant renovation to address aging and damage due to various factors, including leaks and termite infestations. Originally built and modified by the prolific mystery writer Edogawa Rampo, the estate reflects the complexity of his life and work. Following extensive renovations, the estate will open to the public on May 19, 2025, allowing visitors to experience Rampo's creative environment.

The estate's new exhibition room will focus on two aspects of Rampo's life: the author and the person named Taro. This theme will showcase important artifacts that have never been displayed before, including Rampo's handwritten chronicle and an organized schematics of tricks from his mystery works. This unique exhibit aims to provide an intimate glimpse into Rampo’s literary contributions and personal journey.

Festival Highlights

The Toshima Rampo Festival will take place in several venues, offering a variety of events aligned with the festival's themes:

Venue 1: Rikkyo University Ikebukuro Campus (May 18)

• - Special Event: A talk show discussing the intersection between 'Detective Conan' and Edogawa Rampo featuring Takahiro Okura.
• - Symposium: A public symposium titled '80 Years Post-War: Edogawa Rampo and the Toshima District Under Wartime' will explore regional historical studies using materials previously held by Rampo.
• - Biblia Battle: Student-led bibliobattle events hosted by the Rikkyo Mystery Club and Waseda Mystery Club.
• - Themed Food: Menu items inspired by Edogawa Rampo will be available.

Venue 2: Tobu Department Store Ikebukuro Main Store (May 15 - June 4)

• - Mystery Experience Event: An interactive event based on the reading of Rampo's work 'The Black Lizard' through a performance piece.
• - Mystery Attraction: A specific area dedicated to interactive mystery games, featuring both free and ticketed experiences until May 24.
• - Mystery Goods: Free trials and sales of various mystery-themed goods will take place.

Venue 3: Ikebukuro West Area (May 15 - June 30)

• - Mystery Rally: A free mystery rally from Ikebukuro Station to the surrounding area of the former Edogawa Rampo mansion, encouraging exploration of the area's hidden treasures.
• - Retro Adventure: An attraction where participants rely on cassette tape recordings to guide them through the nostalgic sights of Ikebukuro.
• - IKEBUS Mystery Tour: On May 18, participants can join an IKEBUS mystery tour featuring buses running on special routes.

Visitors are encouraged to check the official Rikkyo University website for updates and information about opening hours and event details set to be released in late April. The festival promises not only a unique exploration of Edogawa Rampo's contributions to literature but also an engaging and interactive experience focusing on the mystery genre as a whole.