#Japan #Tokyo #Mitsui Museum #Treasures of Kyoto #Shinnyodo Temple

Mitsui Memorial Museum Achieves 3 Million Visitors

The Mitsui Memorial Museum has proudly announced that it has surpassed the remarkable milestone of 3 million visitors since its inception. This significant achievement reflects the museum's commitment to showcasing exceptional art and cultural artifacts to the public. To celebrate this event, a special ceremony was held where the museum's director, Mr. Mitsuhiro Iwasa, presented commemorative gifts to visitors from Tokyo.

Mr. Iwasa expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the guests who have supported and visited the museum over the years. His acknowledgment came with a warm invitation for everyone to continue their patronage in the future, promising an ongoing dedication to cultural education and appreciation.

Currently, the Mitsui Memorial Museum is hosting a special exhibition titled “Treasures of Shinnyodo Temple in Kyoto.” This exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical temple, located in the east of Kyoto, known as Shinnyodo (真如堂), part of the Tendai sect. The temple is renowned for housing a statue of Amida Nyorai, which has been deeply revered since its establishment. This marks the first exhibition themed around Shinnyodo, featuring many artifacts including a Kamakura period standing figure of Amida Nyorai, as well as the national treasure, the Lotus Sutra (運慶願経).

The treasures exhibited span from the Heian to Kamakura periods, allowing visitors to appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance of these artifacts. Notably, there will be items that have never been exhibited outside of the temple, providing a unique opportunity for the public to encounter these remarkable works.

Moreover, the exhibition pays tribute to the historic connection between Shinnyodo Temple and the Mitsui family, showcasing portraits and artworks related to the family. This special link enriches the narrative of the artifacts on display, indicating the intertwined history of the temple and one of Japan's prominent merchant families.

Some highlights of the exhibition include:

• - National Treasure Lotus Sutra (運慶願経), Kamakura period, 1183 (7th volume, produced by Chinga) – on display from August 4 to August 30.
• - Seated Statues of Mitsui Takatoshi and His Wife, Edo period, 17th century.
• - Important Cultural Property of Yakushi Nyorai, Heian period, 11th century from Inabadō, Byōdō-ji Temple.
• - Important Cultural Property of Bishamonten, Heian period, 11th century from Seigan-ji Temple.
• - First-time Exhibit of Kamakura Period Amida Nyorai, known as 'Hōrin', from Shinnyodo Temple.

Exhibition Details

• - Exhibition Period: July 4, 2026 – August 30, 2026
• - Venue: Mitsui Memorial Museum, 7th Floor, Mitsui Main Building, 2-1-1 Nihombashi Muromachi, Chuo City, Tokyo.
• - Access: 1-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line “Mitsukoshimae” Station A7 exit; 3 minutes from Hanzomon Line “Mitsukoshimae” Station; 4 minutes from Nihonbashi Station B9 exit.
• - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
• - Closed: Mondays.
• - Organized by: Mitsui Memorial Museum, Asahi Shimbun.
• - Admission Fees: General ¥1,500, University/High school students ¥1,000, Free for junior high school students and under. Discounts for seniors over 70 with ID are ¥1,200.
• - Audio Guide: Available in Japanese for ¥800.

For further details, please visit the official Mitsui Memorial Museum website. Additionally, media and press can access downloadable materials and image requests via the museum's press page at Mitsui Memorial Museum Press.

Located on the 7th floor of the historic Mitsui Main Building, a registered Important Cultural Property established in 2005 in Tokyo, the Mitsui Memorial Museum represents a vital hub for art enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike. With an extensive collection encompassing about 4,000 art and craft pieces and over 130,000 stamps, including six National Treasures and 75 Important Cultural Properties, the museum continually works to promote the understanding of both Japanese and Eastern art.

The museum hosts five exhibitions annually, including both special showcases and permanent collections, ensuring a dynamic experience each visit. As we anticipate the 20th anniversary of the museum in October 2025, it has proudly hosted over 100 exhibitions.

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