September 17, 2012 (Mon), Japanese Gallery (Honkan)

The original Japanese Gallery (designed by the British architect Josiah Conder) was severely damaged in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. In contrast to western style of the original structure, the design of the present Honkan by Watanabe Jin is the more eastern "Emperor's Crown Style." Construction began in 1932, and the building was opened in 1938. 24 exhibition rooms on two floors provide a thorough introduction into Japanese art: "Highlights of Japanese Art" on the second floor introduces the development of Japanese art from Jomon through to the Edo period in a chronological manner, and genre galleries presenting specific rooms displaying ceramics, swords, lacquerwares, sculptures, modern decorative arts as well as the material culture of Ainu and Ryukyu are located on the first floor.

Highlights of Japanese Art(PDF)

From December 2, 2024–January 1, 2025, the 1st floor of the Japanese Gallery (Honkan) will be closed for maintenance.

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"

The Dawn of Japanese Art: Jomon, Yayoi and Kofun periods

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

May 8, 2012 (Tue) -
November 4, 2012 (Sun)
The Rise of Buddhism: Asuka - Nara period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

August 28, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
National Treasure Gallery: Illustrated History of the Founders of the Kegon Sect: Chapter on Gangyo, Third Scroll

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 2

August 21, 2012 (Tue) -
September 17, 2012 (Mon)
Buddhist Art: Heian - Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

August 28, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
Courtly Art: Heian - Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

August 28, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
Zen and Ink Painting: Kamakura - Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

August 28, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
Thematic Exhibition

140th Anniversary Thematic Exhibitions: Tea Ceremony Utensils of Hirota Fukkosai

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 4

September 4, 2012 (Tue) -
November 25, 2012 (Sun)
Attire of the Military Elite: Heian - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Rooms 5 & 6

July 24, 2012 (Tue) -
October 14, 2012 (Sun)
Folding Screens and Sliding Door Paintings: Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 7

September 4, 2012 (Tue) -
October 14, 2012 (Sun)
The Arts of Daily Life: Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

June 26, 2012 (Tue) -
September 23, 2012 (Sun)
Developments in Painting and Calligraphy: Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

September 4, 2012 (Tue) -
October 14, 2012 (Sun)
Noh and Kabuki

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 9

August 21, 2012 (Tue) -
October 21, 2012 (Sun)
Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

August 21, 2012 (Tue) -
October 21, 2012 (Sun)
Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Ukiyo-e

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

September 4, 2012 (Tue) -
September 30, 2012 (Sun)

Footed Jar, From Takakura-cho, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya-shi, Aichi, Yayoi Period, 1st - 3rd century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)

The Dawn of Japanese Art: Jomon, Yayoi and Kofun periods

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

May 8, 2012 (Tue) - November 4, 2012 (Sun)

The Jomon culture began around 12,000 years ago. Earthenware vessels of this age with various motifs and styles are the starting point of "Highlights of Japanese Art." In the Yayoi period (450 B.C.- A.D. 250), pottery with a simplistic yet refined beauty and dotaku bell-shaped bronzes were prominent. Typical objects from the Kofun period (A.D. 250-600), such as haji, sue wares and haniwa figurines, as well as mirrors, arms and armor, saddlery, and accessory, which expresses the essence of metal and glass craftsmanship, are also featured.
Current exhibit includes:
Deep Bowl with Flame-like Ornamentation, Attributed provenance: Umataka, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata, Jomon period, 3000 - 2000 BC
Dotaku (Bell-shaped bronze), From Kashio Yubune, Iga-shi, Mie, Yayoi period, 1st - 3rd century
Haniwa (Terracotta tomb ornament), House with a hipped and gabled roof, From Imai, Isesaki-shi, Gunma, Kofun period, 6th century
Deep Bowl, From Horinouchi Shellmound, Ichikawa-shi, Chiba, Jomon period, 2000 - 1000 BC (Private collection)
Footed Jar, From Takakura, Atsuta, Nagoya-shi, Aichi, Yayoi period, 1st - 3rd century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)
Mirror, Interconnected arcs design, From Shorinzan Tumulus, Iwata-shi, Shizuoka, Kofun period, 4th century
Footed Jar with Ornaments and Diminutives, Sue stoneware, From Ogasayama, Osafune-cho, Setouchi-shi, Okayama, Kofun period, 6th century

Standing Juichimen Kannon Bosatsu (Ekadasamukha), Excavated at Mount Nachi, Nachikatsuura-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama, Asuka period, 7th century (Gift of Mr. Kitamata Tomeshiro and others)

The Rise of Buddhism: Asuka - Nara period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

August 28, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

In the mid-6th century, Buddhism was officially introduced into Japan from the kingdom of Baekje on the southeastern coast of the Korean peninsula. Japanese culture made a remarkable progress with the adoption of Buddhism. This gallery features early Buddhist statues, sutras, reliquaries, and ritual implements from the Asuka and Nara periods.
Current exhibit includes:
Standing Juichimen Kannon Bosatsu (Ekadasamukha), Excavated at Mount Nachi, Nachikatsuura-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama, Asuka period, 7th century (Gift of Mr. Kitamata Tomeshiro and others)
Shosan jodo butsu shoju kyo (Sutra on Pure Land and salvation through the Grace of Buddha), Nara period, 8th century
Konkomyo Saisho-o Kyo (Sovereign Kings of the Golden Light Sutra) Vol. 6, Segment, Nara period, 8th century (Private collection)
Ritual objects used in consecration of building site of Main Hall, Kofuku-ji, Excavated from under the building site of Main Hall, Kofukuji, Nara, Tang dynasty, 8th century (National Treasure)
Ritual objects used in consecration of building site of Main Hall, Kofuku-ji, Excavated from under the building site of Main Hall, Kofukuji, Nara, Nara period, 8th century (National Treasure)
Reliquary, Excavated from former Mishima Temple site at Oda, Ibaraki-shi, Osaka, Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Ota Jisaburo and Mr. Hirano Sutejiro)

National Treasure Gallery: Illustrated History of the Founders of the Kegon Sect: Chapter on Gangyo, Third Scroll

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 2

August 21, 2012 (Tue) - September 17, 2012 (Mon)

This room is specially designed for the comfortable viewing of masterpieces in a tranquil setting. With each rotation, one exceptional work of painting or calligraphy designated as National Treasure will be presented. The selections come from the Museum's collection or works that are on loan to the Museum.
On Exhibit:
Illustrated History of the Founders of the Kegon Sect: Chapter on Gangyo, Third Scroll, Kamakura period, 13th century (National Treasure, Lent by Kozanji, Kyoto)

List of Exhibits

Hoke kyo (Lotus Sutra), Hobenbon chapter, Known as "Chikubushima kyo", Heian period, 11th century (National Treasure)

Buddhist Art: Heian - Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

August 28, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

Buddhist art is one of the major genres that define Japanese art. Many masterworks date from the late Heian period, a time characterized as classical in Japanese art history. After the Kamakura period, Buddhist art further developed in its materials, methods, and styles as Zen schools and other new Buddhist schools emerged, together with the influence from the Chinese arts. This exhibit features artworks from the Heian to Kamakura periods, when Buddhist art most flourished, adding siginificant objects from the Nanbokucho and Muromachi periods.
Current exhibit includes:
Standing Jizo Bosatsu (Ksitigarbha), Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Joruriji, Kyoto)
Amida Nyorai (Amitabha), Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Hoshinji, Kanagawa)
Aizen Myo'o (Ragaraja), Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Gokokuin, Tokyo)
Lotus Sutra (J., Hoke kyo), Known as "Kunoji Kyo", Chapter 13, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Tesshuji, Shizuoka)
Hoke kyo (Lotus Sutra), Hobenbon chapter, Known as "Chikubushima kyo", Heian period, 11th century (National Treasure)
Flower Basket, Auspicious floral arabesque design in openwork, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Jinshoji, Shiga)

Kokin Waka Shu Poetry Anthology Segment, Known as "Sujigire" (detail), Attributed to Fujiwara no Sari, Heian period, 12th century

Courtly Art: Heian - Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

August 28, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

The courtiers were strongly involved in the arts through the Heian and Muromachi periods, their aesthetic tastes playing a great role in Japanese art history. Literature works such as waka poems and other calligraphy written by courtiers, and e-maki narrative picture scrolls are displayed in this room with decorative art objects.
Current exhibit includes:
Illustrated Diary of Lady Murasaki, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Private collection)
Kokin wakashu Poetry Anthology Segment, Beginning of vol.4, known as "Sujigire", Attributed to Fujiwara no Sari, Heian period, 12th century

Landscape (detail), By Sesshu Toyo, Inscription by the artist dated 1495 et al, Muromachi period, 15th century (National Treasure)

Zen and Ink Painting: Kamakura - Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

August 28, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

This gallery features works by famous artists of the landscape-painting genre, along with famous works of bokuseki (calligraphy by Zen priests).
Current exhibit includes:
Night Rain over Plantain, Inscriptions by Taihaku Shingen and 13 other persons, Muromachi period, dated 1410 (Important Cultural Property)
Landscape, By Sesshu Toyo, inscriptions by Sesshu Toyo and six monks, Muromachi period, dated 1495 (National Treasure)

Water Jar in Shape of Jade Cong, Celadon glaze, Southern Song Guan ware, Southern Song dynasty, 12th - 13th century, China (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)

Thematic Exhibition

140th Anniversary Thematic Exhibitions: Tea Ceremony Utensils of Hirota Fukkosai

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 4

September 4, 2012 (Tue) - November 25, 2012 (Sun)

The Hirota Matsushige Collection, underpinned by the connoisseurship and experiences of an art dealer, is unique. It includes bold selections, such as a Qing-dynasty bowl from the Jingdezhen kilns, until then an object of admiration, reinterpreted as a water jar for use in the tea ceremony. Other significant features of this collection are the various intriguing small pieces it includes, as well as its many masterpieces.
Current exhibit includes:
Tea Bowl, Horimishima Type, Known as "Kimura", Joseon dynasty, 16th - 17th century, Korea (Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Water Jar, Lotus bouquet design in doucai enamel, Jingdezhen ware, Qing dynasty, Yongzheng era (1723 - 1735), China (Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Water Jar in Shape of Jade Cong, Celadon glaze, Southern Song Guan ware, Southern Song dynasty, 12th - 13th century, China (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Shallow Bowl, Flowering plant design, Mino ware, Kiseto type, Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period, 16th - 17th century (Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)

Details

Domaru type Armor, With black leather lacing in kata-tsumadori style, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property)

Attire of the Military Elite: Heian - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Rooms 5 & 6

July 24, 2012 (Tue) - October 14, 2012 (Sun)

Beginning with the sword which is the most important possession of a samurai, this gallery focuses on arms and armor, saddlery, attire of the warriors as well as their portraits and hand-writings.
Current exhibit includes:
Domaru type Armor, With black leather lacing in kata-tsumadori style, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property)
Tachi Style Sword Mounting, With silver-plated bronze banding on black-lacquered ground, Nanbokucho period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Watanabe Kunio)
Tachi Sword, Known as "Uesugi-Tachi", Ichimonji school, Kamakura period, 13th century (National Treasure)
Hyogo-gusari-no-tachi Style Sword Mounting, With scabbard decorated with birds / Known as "Uesugi-Tachi", Kamakura period, 13th century (National Treasure)
Haramaki Type Armor, With variegated lacing, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property)
Dobuku (Jacket), Snowflake and gingko leaf design on varicolored ground, Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th - 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Autumn Grasses (detail), By Tawaraya Sosetsu, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Folding Screens and Sliding Door Paintings: Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 7

September 4, 2012 (Tue) - October 14, 2012 (Sun)

This gallery is dedicated to the genre of shohei-ga, which includes mural paintings, fusuma paintings and byobu paintings. The room is especially designed for an effective display of grand-scale paintings.
Current exhibit includes:
Scene from the Sekiya Chapter (From The Tale of Genji), Attributed to Tawaraya Sotatsu, inscription by Karasumaru Mitsuhiro, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)
Autumn Grasses, By Tawaraya Sosetsu, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

List of Exhibits

Dish, Poppy design in overglaze enamel, Nabeshima ware, Edo period, 18th century

The Arts of Daily Life: Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

June 26, 2012 (Tue) - September 23, 2012 (Sun)

The maturing of Japanese culture supported by the military and commoner classes continued throughout the Azuchi-Momoyama and Edo periods. This gallery introduces the craft of interior furnishings and daily utensils that adorned the life of the people during these periods.
Current exhibit includes:
Frame of Otsuzumi Drum, Bottle gourds design in maki-e lacquer, Edo period, 17th century
Katabira (Summer garment), Camellia tree and auspicious Chinese character design on white ramie ground, Edo period, 19th century (on exhibit through August 19, 2012)
Hitoe (Summer garment), Flowering plants and nobleman's cart design on red ro gauze, Edo period, 19th century (on exhibit from August 21, 2012)
Tea Kettle, Shinnari type, Seaside pine design, Ashiya ware, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property)
Jar, Flowers design in overglaze enamels, Imari ware, Kakiemon type, Edo period, 17th century
Dish, Poppy design in overglaze enamel, Nabeshima ware, Edo period, 18th century

A Poet's Mountain Retreat (detail), By Uragami Gyokudo, Edo period, dated 1792 (Important Cultural Property)

Developments in Painting and Calligraphy: Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

September 4, 2012 (Tue) - October 14, 2012 (Sun)

This gallery introduces the dynamic and multi-faceted world of paintings and calligraphy from the Azuchi-Momoyama to the Edo period.
Current exhibit includes:
A Poet's Mountain Retreat, By Uragami Gyokudo, Edo period, dated 1792 (Important Cultural Property)
Scroll of Writing, By Tanomura Chikuden, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Aimi kouu)
Chinese-style Quatrain in Seven-character Phrases, By Ike no Taiga, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Mrs. Uematsu Kayoko)

Karaori Garment (Noh Costume), Flax, wisterias, and shikishi and tanzaku paper design on red and brown checkered ground, Formerly owned by the Uesugi family, Edo period, 18th century

Noh and Kabuki

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 9

August 21, 2012 (Tue) - October 21, 2012 (Sun)

Exhibit includes:
Noh Mask, Waraijo type, Formerly owned by the Uesugi family, Edo period, 17th century
Karaori Garment (Noh costume), Flax, wisterias, and shikishi and tanzaku paper design on red and brown checkered ground, Formerly owned by the Uesugi family, Edo period, 18th century

Kosode (Garment with Small Wrist Openings), Edo period, 18th century (Private collection)

Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

August 21, 2012 (Tue) - October 21, 2012 (Sun)

Introduces the fashion of the Edo period townspeople. Enjoy comparing with the ukiyo-e works exhibited in the same room.
Current exhibit includes:
Kosode (Garment with small wrist openings), Heron and flowering plant design on varicolored figured satin, Edo period, 18th century (Private collection)
Furisode (Garment with long hanging sleeves), Chrysanthemum and cloud design on white figured satin, Edo period, 18th century
Inro (Medicine case), With various minute pattern design in mother-of-pearl inlay, Edo period, 19th century

Beauty Looking Back(detail), By Hishikawa Moronobu, Edo period, 17th century

Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Ukiyo-e

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

September 4, 2012 (Tue) - September 30, 2012 (Sun)

Ukiyo-e, or depictions of everyday life in the Edo period (1603?1868), initially developed in the early Edo period as paintings by artists. After this, woodblock printing developed to enable the mass production of ukiyo-e, and innovative carving and printing techniques led to the accomplishment of multicolored nishiki-e prints. This exhibition features a variety of prints, including early-stage sumizuri-e (black monochrome prints), tan-e (prints colored with orange-red), benizuri-e (primitive polychrome prints) and urushi-e (hand-colored prints with an appearance of black lacquer), as well as uchiwa-e (prints for a round fan) printed in indigo blue, and storybooks. Exceptional paintings are also on display, such as Beauty Looking Back by Hishikawa Moronobu, and Standing Beauty by Kitagawa Utamaro.
Exhibit includes:
Beauty Looking Back, By Hishikawa Moronobu, Edo period, 17th century
Actors Ichikawa Danjuro VII as Mongaku and Matsumoto Koshiro V as Fudo Myo-o (Acalanatha), By Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III), Edo period, 19th century
Standing Beauty, By Kitagawa Utamaro, Edo period, 18th century (Important Art Object, Private collection)
One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji, By Katsushika Hokusai, Edo period, 19th century

2nd floor

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor The Prince Takamado Collection Room

June 26, 2012 (Tue) -
September 23, 2012 (Sun)

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor The Prince Takamado Collection Room

June 26, 2012 (Tue) - September 23, 2012 (Sun)

Including:
Cut Piece: Apple, By Akira Kuroiwa, 1997
Hagoromo, By Isshu Kishi, 1988
Grooming, By Kiho Takagi, 1995
Owl, By Zanmai Onosato, 2002
Hatching Gecko, Susan Wraight, 1997

2nd floor

Thematic Exhibition

140th Anniversary Thematic Exhibitions: Autumn Special Viewing, Donated Masterworks in the Tokyo National Museum Collection

2nd floor
Rooms T1 & T2

September 15, 2012 (Sat) -
September 30, 2012 (Sun)

The Zen priest Ikkyu Osho, Inscription by Bokusai, Muromachi Period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Okazaki Masaya)

Thematic Exhibition

140th Anniversary Thematic Exhibitions: Autumn Special Viewing, Donated Masterworks in the Tokyo National Museum Collection

2nd floor
Rooms T1 & T2

September 15, 2012 (Sat) - September 30, 2012 (Sun)

As a part of the museum's 140th anniversary commemorative activities, this exhibition showcases a selection of masterpieces from donations, particularly those designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Through this exhibition, we express our heartfelt thanks to the great generosity shown to our museum, as well as introduce the fact that donations play a significant role in our museum activities.
Current exhibit includes:
Tachi Sword, Known as "Mikazuki Munechika", By Sanjo Munechika, Heian period, 10th - 11th century (National Treasure, Gift of Mr. Watanabe Seiichiro)
Fayu (Elucidation of Buddhist teachings), By Yuanwu Keqin, China, Northern Song dynasty, dated 1124, China (National Treasure, Gift of Mr. Matsudaira Naoaki)
Narrative Picture Scroll of the Chronicle of the Heiji Civil War: The Removal of the Imperial Family to Rokuhara, Kamakura period, 13th century (National Treasure, Gift of Mr. Matsudaira Naoaki)
Kokin wakashu Poetry Anthology, Gen'ei Version, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Gift of Mr. Mitsui Takakiyo)

Details

1st floor: Genre Exhibits

Japanese Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 11

July 18, 2012 (Wed) -
September 23, 2012 (Sun)
Lacquerware

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 12

July 24, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
Metalwork

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

August 7, 2012 (Tue) -
October 21, 2012 (Sun)
Japanese Swords

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

July 31, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
Ceramics

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

July 24, 2012 (Tue) -
October 8, 2012 (Mon)
Thematic Exhibition

Buddhist Statues by Unkei, his Followers, and Koen

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 14

July 31, 2012 (Tue) -
September 17, 2012 (Mon)
Decorative Arts of Ryukyu

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 15

July 10, 2012 (Tue) -
September 30, 2012 (Sun)
Thematic Exhibition

140th Anniversary Thematic Exhibitions: The Variety and Appeal of the Tokugawa Collection of Books

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 16

September 11, 2012 (Tue) -
November 4, 2012 (Sun)
Preserving Our Cultural Properties

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 17

March 27, 2012 (Tue) -
March 3, 2013 (Sun)
Modern Art: Painting and Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 18

August 7, 2012 (Tue) -
September 17, 2012 (Mon)
Modern Decorative Arts: Techniques of Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasures)

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 19

July 18, 2012 (Wed) -
September 17, 2012 (Mon)
Reproducing the National Treasure Red and White Hibiscuses -Secrets of Asia Paints-

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 20

May 15, 2012 (Tue) -
January 14, 2013 (Mon)

Standing Fudo Myo-o (Esoteric Buddhist deity Acalanatha), Heian period, 11th century (Gift of Mr. Okano Tetsusaku)

Japanese Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 11

July 18, 2012 (Wed) - September 23, 2012 (Sun)

This gallery introduces the history of sculptural art in Japan through prototypical wood-sculptures featuring examples dating from the Heian and Kamakura periods, the zenith of Japanese sculpture.
Current exhibit includes:
Standing Komoku Ten (Virupakusa), Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Joruriji, Kyoto)
Standing Zochoten (Virudhaka), Heian period，9th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Ninnaji, Kyoto)
Standing Komoku-Ten (Virupaksa), Heian period, 9th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Shojoji, Fukushima)
Standing Shitenno (Four Heaveuly Kings), Kamakura period, 14th century (Lent by Agency for Cultural Affairs)

Tebako (Cosmetic Box), Scattered cypress fan design in maki-e lacquer, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)

Lacquerware

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 12

July 24, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

Features maki-e works from Heian to Edo period. The exhibit shows the history and beauty of maki-e, a unique lacquerwork method that developed in Japan.
Current exhibition includes:
Tebako (Cosmetic box), Scattered cypress fan crests in maki-e lacquer, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)
Writing Box, Scene illustrating a poem known as "Shionoyama" in maki-e lacquer, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property)
Box for Priest's Vestments, Seascape design in maki-e lacquer, Heian period, 10th century (National Treasure, Lent by Kyoogokoku-ji, Kyoto)
Writing Table and Writing Box, Ivy-bound path in maki-e lacquer, By Tatsuke Chobei, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Reliquary, Cintamani (sacred jewel) in flame type, Kamakura period, 13th - 14th century (Important Cultural Property)

Metalwork

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

August 7, 2012 (Tue) - October 21, 2012 (Sun)

In the 9th century, the doctrines of Esoteric Buddhism and numerous Buddhist ritual objects were brought from China to Japan by Kukai, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and other Japanese monks who studied in China. During the Heian period (794–1192), the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism and its practical aspects of prayer and ritual practice were standardized, and the particulars of ritual objects were also established. Ritual objects of Esoteric Buddhism are utensils used in these prayers and ritual practices, as well as for the adornment of halls; the numerous types of object are placed in precise locations within temples and on altars. Owing to their large ceremonial function, many are sturdy and graceful metal objects with unique designs. This exhibition introduces the diverse world of ritual objects in Esoteric Buddhism, as well as their rich expressions of form based on casting techniques.
Current exhibit includes:
Set of Five Ritual Bells, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Son'eiji, Shizuoka)
Reliquary, Cintamani (sacred jewel) in flame type, Kamakura period, 13th - 14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Wheel Shaped Buddhist Ritual Implement, Kamakura period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Jikoji, Saitama)
Mandala of the Two Realms (Ryokai Mandara), Kamakura period, dated 1194 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Tokumanji, Ibaraki)

Chokuto Sword Known as "Suiryu Ken", Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property)

Japanese Swords

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

July 31, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

Exhibits selected swords and sword-fittings from the Heian to Edo periods, including the Katana Sword Known as "Kanze Masamune".
Current exhibit includes:
Chokuto Sword, Known as "Suiryu Ken", Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property)
Sword Guard, Daruma (Bodhidharma) design, By Kaneie, Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century (Important Cultural Property, Private collection)

Bowl, Nezumi-Shino type, Mino ware / Wagtail design, Mino ware, Nezumi-Shino type, Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period, 16th - 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Ceramics

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

July 24, 2012 (Tue) - October 8, 2012 (Mon)

From Japan's first glazed ceramics of the Nara period to the various wares of the late Edo period, the exhibits will introduce the history of Japanese ceramics through masterworks according to time period and production sites.
Current exhibit includes:
Bowl, Nezumi-Shino type, Mino ware / Wagtail design, Mino ware, Nezumi-Shino type, Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period, 16th - 17th century (Important Cultural Property)
Bowl with Handle, Sandbank shape / Mino ware, Oribe type, Edo period, 17th century (Gift of Mr. Mino Susumu)
Water Jar Hitoe-guchi type; Known as "Shiba no Iori", Shigaraki ware, Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Water Jar with Lugs, Known as "Tatsutagawa", Bizen ware, Azuchi-Momoyama - Edo period, 16th - 17th century (Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Cornered Tea Caddies, Poem design in underglaze blue, By Aoki Mokubei, Edo period, 19th century
Small Dishes, Three jars design in overglaze enamel, Nabeshima ware, Edo period, 17th century (Gift of Mr. Nakaji Sanpei, On exhibit through September 17, 2012)

Seated Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana), Heian - Kamakura period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Shinnyoen, Tokyo)

Thematic Exhibition

Buddhist Statues by Unkei, his Followers, and Koen

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 14

July 31, 2012 (Tue) - September 17, 2012 (Mon)

Current exhibit includes:
Seated Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana), Heian - Kamakura period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Shinnyoen, Tokyo)
Seated Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana), Heian - Kamakura period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Kotokuji, Tochigi)
Seated Monju Bosatsu (Manjusri), From seated Monju Bosatsu (Manjusri) and Attendants, By Koen, Formerly preserved at Kofukuji, Nara, Kamakura period, dated 1273 (Important Cultural Property)

Details

Headwear for Prince, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Higa Kamato, On exhibit through August 19, 2012)

Decorative Arts of Ryukyu

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 15

July 10, 2012 (Tue) - September 30, 2012 (Sun)

This display features examples of decorative art from Okinawa, including metalwork, colorful textiles, ceramics showing various influences, lacquerware showing Chinese influences, and jade objects thought to have been used by noro(ritual officers).
Exhibit includes:
Headwear for Prince, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Higa Kamato, on exhibit through August 19, 2012)
Ritual Bead Necklace, Amami Oshima Island, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Yamato Ryoko, on exhibit from August 21, 2012)
Dress, Bamboo, crane, and plum design in bingata stencil dyeing on white ramie, Okinawa Main Island, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Kamakura Yoshitaro)
Dress, Stream, chrysanthemum, reed, and wild goose design in bingata stencil dyeing on light blue ground, Okinawa Main Island, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 19th century
Hair Ornament for an Amushirare (Ritual officer), Amami Oshima Island, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 18th century (Gift of Ms. Yamato Ryoko)
Covered Food Box, Figure under tree design in mother-of-pearl inlay and in chinkin (gilded hair-line engraving), Okinawa Main Island, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 18th century
Food Box, Birds and flower design in mother-of-pearl inlay, Ryukyu, Second Sho Dynasty, Ryukyu Kingdom, 18th century

Details

Album of Citrus Fruits, By Hattori Sessai, Meiji period, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Muneyoshi)

Thematic Exhibition

140th Anniversary Thematic Exhibitions: The Variety and Appeal of the Tokugawa Collection of Books

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 16

September 11, 2012 (Tue) - November 4, 2012 (Sun)

This thematic exhibition displays intriguing examples from the Tokugawa Collection of Books, in order to introduce its wide-ranging content and variety of forms. We hope visitors experience the appeal of Edo-period and Meiji-era Japanese books, as exemplified by this collection.
Current exhibit includes:
Certificate of initiation from Jitsujo to his disciple Ryoyu, Kamakura period, dated 1318 (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Muneyoshi)
Miniature Models of Inuoumono (Dog chasing) of the Takeda School, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Muneyoshi)
Kundaikan Sochoki (Records of Tea Ceremonies and Related Tea Utensils), Edo period, 17th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Muneyoshi)

Details

Preserving Our Cultural Properties

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 17

March 27, 2012 (Tue) - March 3, 2013 (Sun)

>> detailed information
The preservation and conservation of cultural properties are essential aspects of our Museum's mission. From this point of view, this room features object research and examination, environmental maintenance of storage and exhibition rooms, and conservation procedures applied in accordance to materials and conditions of the objects.

Aged Monkey, By Takamura Koun, 1893 (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Japan Delegate Office for World's Columbian Exposition)

Modern Art: Painting and Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 18

August 7, 2012 (Tue) - September 17, 2012 (Mon)

This gallery features paintings and sculptures from the Meiji to Taisho period. Since it first opened in 1872 as the exposition venue of the Ministry of Education, Tokyo National Museum has collected important artworks that signify the development of modern Japanese art. The exhibit consists of selected works from the collection.
Current exhibit includes:
Aged Monkey, By Takamura Koun, 1893 (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Japan Delegate Office for World's Columbian Exposition)
Eight Views of the Xiao and Xiang Rivers, By Yokoyama Taikan, 1912 (Important Cultural Property)
Scenes from the Tropics: Morning, By Imamura Shiko, 1914 (Important Cultural Property)
Nude, By Umehara Ryuzaburo, 1931 (Gift of the artist)

Modern Decorative Arts: Techniques of Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasures)

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 19

July 18, 2012 (Wed) - September 17, 2012 (Mon)

Japan strives for the continuation of traditional art techniques by designating significant parts of Japan’s intangible culture as Important Intangible Cultural Property, and by recognizing people or groups with exceptional technical skills in these areas as Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Property. The Tokyo National Museum collection contains a large number of works by these holders, including works transferred from the Agency for Cultural Affairs. By selecting from these objects, which were created based on traditional Japanese decorative art techniques, this exhibition introduces the technical skill and aesthetic appeal of masterpieces of ceramics, lacquerware, metalware, and wood or bamboo wares.
Current exhibit includes:
Bowl Brilliang glazes, By Tokuda Yasokichi III, 1984
Decorative Box Ebony with floral design in inlay, By Osaka Hiromichi, 1996
Stationery Box Parrot, small bird and grape design, By Unno Kiyoshi, Showa era, 20th century (Gift of Mr. Mineshima Mohei)

Reproducing the National Treasure Red and White Hibiscuses -Secrets of Asia Paints-

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 20

May 15, 2012 (Tue) - January 14, 2013 (Mon)

The example artwork is the hanging scroll with pink flowers from Red and White Hibiscuses (designated as a National Treasure), a work by the Chinese court painter Li Di in the Southern Song dynasty in 1197 (Qingyuan 3). Through the reproduction of this art work, faithfully recreated in stages, the display describes how the painting was completed.

Details

Exhibitions