Theo Jansen Exhibition - Kochi
2023-04-15 00:09 - 2023-06-25 23:59 (Asia/Tokyo) | Tokyo
Theo Jansen is a renowned artist and inventor from the Netherlands who has gained international recognition for his Strandbeests, which are kinetic sculptures made from PVC pipes and powered by wind. These unique sculptures have been showcased in exhibitions all over the world, and have captivated audiences with their fusion of art and engineering.
A special exhibition featuring Jansen’s work is currently being held at the Museum of Art Kochi, marking his first solo event in Shikoku. Attendees can immerse themselves in the world of Strandbeests through videos, wooden molds and parts, sketches drawn by Jansen himself, and the tools used in their production. The exhibition provides a rare opportunity to witness Jansen’s creative process up close, and to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms that bring his sculptures to life.
Adult admission to the event is priced at ¥1200, and no advance reservations are required. If you are a fan of art, engineering, or simply appreciate the beauty of nature-inspired creations, be sure to visit the Museum of Art Kochi and experience the wonder of Theo Jansen’s Strandbeests for yourself.

Naked Flower Tower
2023-04-29 19:00 - 2023-06-30 21:00
a digital art collective has been behind several seasonal projection mapping events at popular urban destinations in Japan, such as Tokyo Tower, Abeno Harukas in Osaka, and Sapporo TV Tower. The collective has now collaborated with the Mirai Tower in Nagoya to create a summer floral-themed event called NAKED Flower Tower. The event features a 360° projection mapping show of blooming flowers on the tower’s window surfaces, and artificial flowers are used to decorate the tower’s Sky Deck observatory area.
If you are visiting Nagoya until the end of June, you can experience the NAKED Flower Tower event. Admission is ¥1500 for adults (high school students and above), ¥600 for children (elementary and junior high school students), and free for children below preschool age. Don’t miss the chance to witness the impressive projection mapping show and enjoy the colorful floral decorations at the Mirai Tower in Nagoya.

Tanbo Art in Aomori
2023-05-29 09:00 - 2023-10-09 17:00
Artistic expression encompasses a wide range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, music, dance, literature, and photography. However, art can take on various other forms as well, such as the unique combination of art and agriculture found in certain destinations in Japan. In these places, rice fields become canvases for intricate designs created through the strategic planting of different rice varieties, resulting in captivating images when the rice plants mature.
One such event where you can witness this fascinating art-meets-agriculture practice is the Tanbo Art Festival in Inakadate, Aomori. Each year, the rice fields in Inakadate are adorned with unique designs. In 2023, the festival will feature rice art depicting the iconic “Girl with a Pearl Earring” painting by Johannes Vermeer at the Inakadate Village Observatory. Additionally, there will be One Piece-themed creation at the Yayoi no Sato Observatory.
If you plan to visit, it’s important to note that the two venues have different operating dates. The Inakadate Village Observatory venue will be open from May 29th until October 9th (closed on October 1st), while the Yayoi no Sato Observatory will be open from June 10th until October 9th. Admission fees for both venues are set at ¥300 for adults, ¥100 for elementary-aged children, and free for pre-school-aged children.
These rice field art displays provide a unique and enchanting way to appreciate art in harmony with nature and agricultural traditions. They offer visitors the chance to witness incredible large-scale designs created purely through the cultivation of rice. The Tanbo Art Festival in Inakadate is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the local community, as well as the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Visiting these venues during the festival allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of these remarkable rice field artworks and witness firsthand the harmonious blend of art and agriculture. It is a memorable experience that showcases the innovative ways in which artistic expression can manifest in unexpected places.

Motor Camp Expo
2023-06-10 10:00 - 2023-06-11 17:00
Japan is renowned for its extensive and impressive train network, but it’s not the only means of transportation for travelers exploring the country. Motor homes, also known as camper vans, offer an exciting alternative for those seeking to embark on unique travel adventures. They provide the freedom to explore diverse landscapes and destinations at your own pace, offering a truly immersive and flexible experience.
For individuals who are considering this type of travel in Japan, the Motor Camp Expo is an event worth considering. This expo was established in 2019 with the intention of promoting road trips and the wide range of outdoor activities associated with them. Attending this expo can provide valuable insights, information, and inspiration for planning your motor home adventure in Japan.
The Motor Camp Expo showcases various aspects related to motor home travel, such as different types of motor homes, camping equipment, outdoor gear, and accessories. Visitors can explore the latest models of camper vans, learn about camping sites, and discover essential tools and equipment for their journey. It’s an opportunity to gather knowledge, connect with fellow travelers, and get a glimpse into the vibrant motor home community in Japan.
To attend the Motor Camp Expo, adult admission is priced at ¥500. This admission fee applies to anyone who is high school-aged or older. It’s a modest investment considering the wealth of information and inspiration one can gain from the expo.
In summary, while Japan’s train network is highly regarded, motor homes offer an exciting and flexible way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. The Motor Camp Expo serves as a platform to promote road trips and outdoor activities associated with motor home travel. Attending this event can provide valuable insights and inspiration for planning your own motor home adventure in Japan.

Aki Kondo Exhibition
2023-07-01 11:00 - 2023-08-27 20:00
The Kamakura Beach Bon Odori Festival has been held annually since 2013. This event beautifully combines the traditional and lively Japanese folk dancing with the stunning backdrop of Sagami Bay’s picturesque waters. It is a family-friendly celebration that offers a range of activities.
At the festival, you can experience the enchanting ambiance created by the chanting of sutras and the burning of incense by local monks. Traditional music performances featuring instruments such as the shinobue and shamisen add to the festive atmosphere. Additionally, there are dance routines specifically designed for children to enjoy.
Admission to the Kamakura Beach Bon Odori Festival is free of charge, making it accessible for everyone to participate and enjoy the festivities. However, please be aware that in the event of rainy weather, the festival will be relocated from Kamakura Central Beach to Umi-no Ie Asia.
Immerse yourself in the joyous celebration of Japanese culture at the Kamakura Beach Bon Odori Festival, where traditional folk dancing, mesmerizing music, and a beautiful coastal setting come together. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to ask.

Purin Expo
2023-07-14 10:00 - 2023-07-18 16:00
Purin, also known as custard pudding, is a beloved dessert in Japan cherished for its smooth texture and flavorful taste. This delectable treat is made with simple ingredients such as eggs, milk, sugar, and caramel sauce, resulting in a harmonious blend of sweetness and creaminess. It is often enjoyed as a delightful conclusion to a meal or as a comforting standalone indulgence.
Yamaguchi’s Onoda Sun Park hosts the Purin Expo, a special event that celebrates this popular dessert. The expo features over 50 varieties of puddings carefully selected from all around the country, offering a diverse and mouthwatering selection for visitors to enjoy. It is an excellent opportunity to sample different types of purin and discover new flavors.
The Purin Expo spans five days, starting from 10 am and ending at 7 pm each day, with the exception of the last day, July 18th, when the event concludes at 4 pm. Whether you are a devoted purin enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring sweet delicacies, this expo promises a delightful experience.
If you happen to be in Yamaguchi during the event, be sure to visit the Purin Expo at Onoda Sun Park to immerse yourself in the world of this luscious dessert. With a wide variety of puddings to taste and savor, it’s a celebration of purin that you won’t want to miss.

Lucy is Here Exhibition
2023-07-15 10:00
Lucy van Pelt, a well-known character in Charles M. Schulz’s beloved comic strip “Peanuts,” holds a special place in the hearts of many. In an upcoming exhibition in Tokyo, fans will have the opportunity to delve into all things Lucy through a captivating display of original drawings. This exhibition will feature nearly 50 artworks, with the majority of them loaned from the Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California.
Visitors to the exhibition can immerse themselves in the world of Lucy van Pelt, gaining a deeper understanding of the character through the collection of original drawings. On the day of the event, adult admission will be priced at ¥2000. However, advance tickets can be purchased online at a slightly discounted rate.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the fascinating world of Lucy van Pelt at this special exhibition in Tokyo. Appreciate the artistry behind Charles M. Schulz’s iconic comic strip and witness the enduring legacy of “Peanuts.” If you have any further questions or require additional information, please feel free to ask.
