November 15, 2018 (Thu), 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)

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

July 18, 2018 (Wed) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
The Rise of Buddhism: Asuka–Nara period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
National Treasure Gallery: Hokan shu, Volume 2

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 2

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
November 25, 2018 (Sun)
Buddhist Art: Heian–Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Courtly Art: Heian–Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Zen and Ink Painting: Kamakura–Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
The Art of Tea Ceremony

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 4

September 11, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Attire of the Military Elite: Heian–Edo period

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

October 2, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Folding Screens and Sliding Door Paintings: Azuchi-Momoyama–Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 7

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
The Arts of Daily Life: Azuchi-Momoyama–Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

October 16, 2018 (Tue) -
January 27, 2019 (Sun)
Developments in Painting and Calligraphy: Azuchi-Momoyama–Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Noh and Kabuki: Kabuki Costumes

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 9

October 16, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

October 16, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Ukiyo-e

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

October 23, 2018 (Tue) -
November 18, 2018 (Sun)

Deep Bowl with Flame-like Ornamentation, Attributed provenance: Umataka, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata, Jomon period, 3000–2000 BC

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

July 18, 2018 (Wed) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

Current exhibit includes:
Deep Bowl with Flame-like Ornamentation, Attributed provenance: Umataka, Nagaoka-shi, Niigata, Jomon period, 3000–2000 BC
Dotaku (Bell-shaped bronze), Crossed bands design, From Mukaiyama, Ibaraki, Hidaka-cho, Wakayama, Yayoi period, 1st–3rd century
Haniwa (Terracotta tomb object), Man carrying a hoe, From Shimofurei-cho, Isesaki-shi, Gunma, Kofun period, 6th century
Dogu (Clay figurine), With goggle-shaped eyes, Excavated at Rokugo ishinadate, Misato-cho, Akita, Jomon period, 1,000–400 BC
Mirror, Imaginary crocodile-like creature design, Provenance unknown, Kofun period, 4th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Dan Inou)

Heart Sutra (detail), Sumidera shin gyo version, Attributed to Kukai, Nara period, 8th century (Gift of Mrs. Tsutsui Kuniko)

The Rise of Buddhism: Asuka–Nara period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

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:
Seated Shaka Nyorai (Sakyamuni) , Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Saidaiji, Nara)
Heart Sutra, Sumidera shin gyo version, Attributed to Kukai, Nara period, 8th century (Gift of Mrs. Tsutsui Kuniko)

Hokan shu, Volume 2 (detail), Heian-Nanbokucho period, 12th-14th century (National Treasure, Lent by Kongobuji, Wakayama)

National Treasure Gallery: Hokan shu, Volume 2

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 2

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - November 25, 2018 (Sun)

Literally meaning "a compilation of treasured documents," Hokan shu is a collection of historical documents that were passed down at Kongobuji temple on Mount Koya, a sacred site for Shingon Buddhism. These documents date between the Heian and the Edo periods, from the end of the 8th to the mid–19th century, and the entire compilation comprises 272 volumes with a total of 3,502 documents. The contents of Hokan shu can be roughly divided into three categories: the workings and organization of the Shingon sect at the time, religious rituals, and the formation of temple estates. Volume 2, on display here, contains 19 documents issued to the temple by the shogunate and the imperial court.

List of Exhibits

Gathering of Deities (detail), Kamakura period, 14th century

Buddhist Art: Heian–Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

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 periods.

Current exhibit includes:
Seated Minamoto Yoritomo (Presumed), Kamakura period, 13th-14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Gathering of Deities, Kamakura period, 14th century
Yuima (Vimalakirti), Nanbokucho period, 14th century
Bussetsu kogi homon kyo SutraFrom the Nanatsudera issai kyo compilation, Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Nanatsudera, Aichi)
Hokyoin darani kyo Sutra, Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Kongoji, Osaka)
Lotus Sutra "Expedient Means" chapter; known as the "Chikubushima Sutra", Heian period, 11th century (National Treasure)

Wakan roei shu Poetry Anthology, Vol. 2 (Masuda version) (detail), Heian period, 11th century (Important Cultural Property)

Courtly Art: Heian–Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

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 displayed in this room with decorative art objects.

Current exhibit includes:
Illustrated Scroll of Artisans' Poetry Contest at Tohokuin Temple, Kamakura period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Wakan roei shu Poetry Anthology, Vol. 2 (Masuda version), Heian period, 11th century (Important Cultural Property)

Landscape (detail), By Kantei, Muromachi period, 16th century (Gift of Mr. Okazaki Masaya)

Zen and Ink Painting: Kamakura–Muromachi period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

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:
Postscript to the Sayings of Nanpo Jomin, By Minki Soshun, Kamakura period, dated 1330 (Gift of Mr. Ichikawa Santei)
Flowers and Birds of the Four Seasons, By Kano Motonobu, Muromachi period, 16th century (Private collection)

Bowl, Arabesque design in overglaze enamel, Formerly owned by Okano Shigezo, 16th century (Important Art Object)

The Art of Tea Ceremony

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 4

September 11, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

This gallery highlights the way of tea through its various art works such as paintings and calligraphy, vases, vessels for kaiseki meals, kettles, tea caddies, and tea bowls.

Current exhibit includes:
Tea Bowl, Oido type; known as "Uraku-ido", Formerly owned by Oda Urakusai and Kinokuniya Bunzaemon, Joseon dynasty, 16th century (Important Art Object, Gift of Mr. Matsunaga Yasuzaemon)
Bowl, Arabesque design in overglaze enamel, Formerly owned by Okano Shigezo, 16th century (Important Art Object)
Box for a Tea Set, Design in kinma lacquer inlay, 16–17th century
Shallow Bowl, Three-color glaze with melon design, Studio of Chojiro (d. 1589), Raku ware, Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century
Letter, By Sen no Rikyu, Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century (Gift of Mr. Zenda Kiichiro)
Flower Vase with Elephant-shaped Lugs, Known as ‟Akizuki”, Muromachi period, 15th–16th century (Gift of Mr. Matsunaga Yasuzaemon)
Tea Kettle with Ribs, Muromachi period, 16th century

Domaru Type Armor, With lacing in kashidori style, red at shoulders, Passed down by the Akita clan, lords of Miharu domain, Mutsu province, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Akita Kazusue)

Attire of the Military Elite: Heian–Edo period

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

October 2, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (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 lacing in kashidori style, red at shoulders, Passed down by the Akita clan, lords of Miharu domain, Mutsu province, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Akita Kazusue)
Kowakizashi Style Sword Mounting (For [wakizashi] sword known as "Ishida Sadamune"), With a black-lacquered scabbard, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)
Jinbaori (Coat worn over armor), Mt. Fuji design on black woolen cloth, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Mrs. Henry)
Kaji Shozoku (Suit worn at scene of fire): Coat, Chest Cover, and Kitsuke，Brown wool with futatsu-hiki crest, Edo period, 19th century

Landscape with Figures (detail), By Goshun, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Ms. Uematsu Kayoko)

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 7

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (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:
Landscape with Figures, By Goshun, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Ms. Uematsu Kayoko)
Landscape, By Goshun, Edo period, 18th century (Important Art Object, Gift of Mr. Yoshikawa Kan)

Suzuribako (Writing box), Design of a flock of cranes in maki-e lacquer, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Mr. Matsunaga Yasuzaemon)

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

October 16, 2018 (Tue) - January 27, 2019 (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:
Suzuribako (Writing box), Design of a flock of cranes in maki-e lacquer, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Mr. Matsunaga Yasuzaemon)
Kajibaori (Coat worn during fires), Design of the Thunder God on a dark blue quilted-cotton ground, Edo period, 19th century
Yogi Quilt, Design of autumn grasses and scenes from The Tale of Genji on a white satin ground, Edo period, 18th century
Water Dropper, Design of an eggplant with Mount Fuji and the Miho pine grove, Edo period, 18th–19th century (Gift of Mr. Watanabe Toyotaro and Mr. Watanabe Masayuki)
Large Dish, Phoenix design in underglaze blue, Imari ware, Edo period, 17th century (Private collection)
Dish, Fruit design in overglaze enamel, Imari ware, Kakiemon type, Edo period, Enpo era (National Treasure, Gift of Dr. Yokogawa Tamisuke)
Sake Cask, Pail shape; Pine and bamboo design in overglaze enamel, Kyoto ware, Edo period, 18th century

Albums of insects and worms (detail), By Mashiyama Sessai, Edo period, 19th century

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (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:
Hawking, By Kusumi Morikage, Edo period, 17th century (Lent by Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd.)
Wild Autumn Waves, By Haruki Nanko, Edo period, dated 1826 (Private collection)
Albums of insects and worms, By Mashiyama Sessai, Edo period, 19th century
Poems, By Hon'ami Koetsu, Edo period, 17th century (Lent by Okura Museum of Art)

Omigoromo Coat (Kabuki Costume), Chrysanthemum and stream design on light blue velvet ground, Formerly used by Bando Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms.Takagi Kiyo)

Noh and Kabuki: Kabuki Costumes

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 9

October 16, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

Kabuki performances run in the eleventh month of the old lunar calendar introduced actors who were scheduled to appear at the three official Kabuki theaters of Edo (now Tokyo) in the coming year. The majority of the Kabuki costumes in the collection of the Tokyo National Museum were once worn by Bando Mitsue. With a focus on Kabuki costumes for male roles, this exhibition showcases the beauty of the costumes’ gorgeous, thick embroidery, large, eye-catching patterns, and designs of vivid colors that are unique to Kabuki.

Current exhibit includes:
Omigoromo Coat (Kabuki Costume), Chrysanthemum and stream design on light blue velvet ground, Formerly used by Bando Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms.Takagi Kiyo)
Haori (Kabuki costume), Dragon and wave design on white wool ground, Formerly used by Bando Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyo)
Kitsuke (Kabuki costume), Dragon and wave design on white wool ground, Formerly used by Bando Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyo)
Yoten (Kabuki costume), Tortoiseshell, cloud, crane, and dragon design, Formerly used by Bando Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyo)

Kosode (Garment with small wrist openings), Design of waves and mandarin ducks on a black figured-satin ground, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

October 16, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (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), Design of waves and mandarin ducks on a black figured-satin ground, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)
Kosode (Garment with small wrist openings), Design of baskets of autumn leaves and flowers on a light blue chirimen-crepe ground, Edo period, 18th century
Inro (Medicine case), Design of a chicken in cloisonne, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Quincy A. Shaw)

The Actor Sawamura Sojuro III as Ogishi Kurando, By Toshusai Sharaku, Edo period, dated 1794 (Important Cultural Property)

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

October 23, 2018 (Tue) - November 18, 2018 (Sun)

The genre of ukiyo-e, which depicts the common people of the Edo period (1603?1868), originally consisted only of hand-painted works. Later, mass production of ukiyo-e became possible through woodblock printing, while advances in carving and printing techniques eventually led to the creation of multi-colored prints called nishiki-e. This exhibition features works associated with Kabuki theater, a major theme of ukiyo-e. The lineup includes playbills, which served as advertisements; prints depicting theaters and actors on stage; portraits of actors, which functioned like today’s photographs of movie stars; and "death pictures," which were created in mourning for popular actors. Visitors are invited to explore various renditions on the theme of Kabuki.

Current exhibit includes:
Yanone Goro, By Torii Kiyonaga, Edo period, dated 1810 (Important Art Object, Lent by Jyoujuin, Tokyo)
The Actor Sawamura Sojuro III as Ogishi Kurando, By Toshusai Sharaku, Edo period, dated 1794 (Important Cultural Property)
Kabuki Theater (Right screen), By Hishikawa Moronobu, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)
Genre Scenes, By Miyagawa Choshun, Edo period, 18th century (Important Cultural Property)

2nd floor

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor The Prince Takamado Collection Room

October 16, 2018 (Tue) -
January 27, 2019 (Sun)

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor The Prince Takamado Collection Room

October 16, 2018 (Tue) - January 27, 2019 (Sun)

Including:
Daruma, By Hosen Miyazawa, 1998
Kappa, By Kenji Abe, 1986
Angel's Tears, [ojime] Cheese, By Kozan Fukuyama, 2001
Winter Sparrow, By Shizuka Kimura, 1995
Belling the Cat, By Susan Wraight, 2001

2nd floor

Thematic Exhibition

Commemorating the Registration of "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region" as World Heritage; Thematic Exhibition: Christian Articles in Japan

2nd floor
Room T2

October 10, 2018 (Wed) -
December 2, 2018 (Sun)

Madonna and Child, Formerly held by the Nagasaki Magistrate's Office 16th–17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Thematic Exhibition

Commemorating the Registration of "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region" as World Heritage; Thematic Exhibition: Christian Articles in Japan

2nd floor
Room T2

October 10, 2018 (Wed) - December 2, 2018 (Sun)

"Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region," registered in July of this year as World Heritage, comprise 11 locations in Nagasaki prefecture and one location in Kumamoto prefecture where the Christian faith has been passed down for centuries. We hope that this exhibition will provide an opportunity to think about the countless individuals who pursued their faith in Japan regardless of the unforgiving circumstances.

Details

1st floor: Genre Exhibits

Japanese Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 11

October 23, 2018 (Tue) -
January 20, 2019 (Sun)
Lacquerware

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 12

October 2, 2018 (Tue) -
December 25, 2018 (Tue)
Metalwork

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

October 2, 2018 (Tue) -
December 25, 2018 (Tue)
Japanese Swords

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

September 19, 2018 (Wed) -
November 25, 2018 (Sun)
Ceramics

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

October 2, 2018 (Tue) -
December 25, 2018 (Tue)
Thematic Exhibition

Furnishings from the Higyosha of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 14

October 2, 2018 (Tue) -
December 25, 2018 (Tue)
Records of History

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 15

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
December 25, 2018 (Tue)
Ainu and Ryukyu: Life of the Ainu People

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 16

October 30, 2018 (Tue) -
January 20, 2019 (Sun)
Conservation and Restoration

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 17

April 15, 2014 (Tue) -
March 31, 2020 (Tue)
Modern Art

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 18

September 11, 2018 (Tue) -
December 9, 2018 (Sun)
Oshidashi Butsu－Reproducing the Repousse Buddhist Image-Amida (Amitabha) Triad and Two Priests

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 19

August 7, 2018 (Tue) -
September 16, 2019 (Mon)

Standing Bodhisattva, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)

Japanese Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 11

October 23, 2018 (Tue) - January 20, 2019 (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 Bodhisattva, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)
Standing Komokuten (Virupakusa), Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Joruriji, Kyoto)

Sutra Box, Dragon coiled around sword design in maki-e lacquer, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Taimadera temple, Okuno'in, Nara)

Lacquerware

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 12

October 2, 2018 (Tue) - December 25, 2018 (Tue)

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:
Mirror Box, Mount Penglai (Island of immortals) design in maki-e lacquer, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Atsuta Jingu shrine, Aichi)
Sutra Box, Dragon coiled around sword design in maki-e lacquer, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Taimadera temple, Okuno'in, Nara)
Sutra Box with Inner Tray, Tray: Sakyamuni and the sixteen guardians of the Great Wisdom Sutra design in maki-e lacquer; box: lotus pond design in maki-e lacquer, Heian period, dated 1175 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Nanatsu-dera temple, Aichi)
Tebako (Cosmetic box) and Contents, Paulownia design in maki-e lacquer, Donated to the shrine in Nanbokucho period, 1390 (National Treasure, Lent by Kumano-hayatama Taisha shrine, Wakayama)

Container for Buddhist Relics in the Shape of a Flaming Wish-granting Jewel, Kamakura period, 13th-14th century (Important Cultural Property)

Metalwork

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

October 2, 2018 (Tue) - December 25, 2018 (Tue)

This exhibition provides a historical overview of Japanese metalwork from the Heian (794–1192) to the Edo (1603–1868) period. Objects are displayed by category, such as Buddhist ritual implements, mirrors, tea kettles, objects with designs in cloisonné, decorative fittings, and okimono ornaments. Visitors are invited to view the beauty of metals such as gold, silver, copper, and iron, as well as the shapes they were crafted into, and the designs they were freely embellished with.

Current exhibit includes:
Flower Basket, Design of a hosoge floral arabesque in openwork, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Jinshoji, Shiga)
Container for Buddhist Relics in the Shape of a Flaming Wish-granting Jewel, Kamakura period, 13th-14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Kakebotoke (Buddhist pendant plaque), Image of Sho Kannon (Aryavalokitesvara), Kamakura period, dated 1275 (Important Cultural Property)

Tachi Sword, Known as “Koryu Kagemitsu” (detail), By Kagemitsu, Kamakura period, dated 1322 (National Treasure)

Japanese Swords

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

September 19, 2018 (Wed) - November 25, 2018 (Sun)

Exhibits selected swords and sword-fittings from the Heian to Edo periods, including the Tachi Sword, Known as “Koryu Kagemitsu” By Kagemitsu.

Current exhibit includes:
Tachi Sword, Known as “Koryu Kagemitsu”, By Kagemitsu, Kamakura period, dated 1322 (National Treasure)
Tanto Sword, By Kunimitsu, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Watanabe Seiichiro)

Incense Burner, With lion-shaped knob, Mino ware, Oribe type, Edo period, dated 1612

Ceramics

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

October 2, 2018 (Tue) - December 25, 2018 (Tue)

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:
Large-mouthed Jar, Yellow glaze with peony arabesque design, Seto ware, Kamakura period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Water Jar with Straight Lip, Karatsu ware, Chosen karatsu type, Edo period, 17th century,
Incense Burner, With lion-shaped knob, Mino ware, Oribe type, Edo period, dated 1612
Bowl, Cherry blossom and maple design in overglaze enamel, By Nin'nami Dohachi, Edo period, ca. mid-19th century (Important Art Object, Private collection)
Large Dish, Snowscape design in underglaze blue, Nabeshima ware, Edo period, 18th century
Covered Square Bowl, Flower and bird design in overglaze enamel, Imari ware, Kakiemon type, Edo period, 17th century (Private collection)
Water Jar, Qilin (mythical animal) and chrysanthemum design in overglaze enamel, By Okuda Eisen, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Dr. Yokogawa Tamisuke)

Two-tiered Shelf, Design of cranes with pine sprigs in maki-e lacquer and mother-of-pearl inlay, Edo period, 19th century

Thematic Exhibition

Furnishings from the Higyosha of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 14

October 2, 2018 (Tue) - December 25, 2018 (Tue)

After being lost to a fire in 960, the Inner Palace of the Kyoto Imperial Palace was reconstructed multiple times over the centuries.
The works presented here–rare furnishings made in classical styles–are from the Higyosha reconstructed in 1855 and provide insight into daily life at the court.

Details

Map of Kyushu (Large-scale map), No. 9 (detail), Meiji era, 19th century (Important Cultural Property)

Records of History

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 15

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - December 25, 2018 (Tue)

Tokyo National Museum includes a large collection of historical objects and documents. This collection began with objects previously owned by the Edo shogunate government. From the museum's establishment in 1872 (Meiji 5) onward, the collection grew through the holding of exhibitions as well as surveys of cultural properties.

Current exhibit includes:
Map of Kyushu (Large-scale map), No. 9, Meiji era, 19th century (Important Cultural Property)
Exhibits for the World Exposition 1873 Vienna, By Yokoyama Matsusaburo and others, Meiji era, 19th century
Map of Oshudo Highway, Shirasawa, Ujiie; Akutsukashi, and Kitsuregawa, Edo period, dated 1806 (Important Cultural Property)

Tray, Hokkaido Ainu, 19th century (Transferred from the Bureau for the Vienna World Exposition)

Ainu and Ryukyu: Life of the Ainu People

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 16

October 30, 2018 (Tue) - January 20, 2019 (Sun)

The Ainu people, who lived in the harsh environment of Hokkaido and its islands, revered nature and the gods, living their lives in harmony with their natural surroundings. This exhibition features everyday items that shed light on the daily lives of the Ainu. These include hunting and fishing tools that Ainu men used, weaving tools and woven items, such as clothing and bags, used by Ainu women, as well as wooden tableware.

Current exhibit includes:
Mat, Sakhalin Ainu, 19th century
Necklace, Hokkaido Ainu, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)
Knife and Mounting, Hokkaido Ainu, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)
Ritual Hoe-shaped Crest, Hokkaido Ainu, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Oda Katsukichi and Mr. Izumi Rintaro)
Coat Known as "What We Sewed Up", Hokkaido Ainu (Abuta), Formerly used by Chief Ikashi Wakka, Edo period-Meiji era, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)

Conservation and Restoration

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 17

April 15, 2014 (Tue) - March 31, 2020 (Tue)

>> 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.

Garment as a Memento (detail), By Kawamura Kiyo’o, Dated 1899–1911

Modern Art

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 18

September 11, 2018 (Tue) - December 9, 2018 (Sun)

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:
White Fox, By Shimomura Kanzan, Dated 1914 (On exhibit from October 30, 2018)
Maiko Girl, By Tsuchida Bakusen, Dated 1930 (Gift of Ms. Katayama Yoshiko, On exhibit from October 30, 2018)
Garment as a Memento, By Kawamura Kiyo’o, Dated 1899–1911
Eagle, By Suzuki Chokichi, Dated 1892 (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Japan Delegate Office for World's Columbian Exposition, Chicago)

Amida (Amitabha) Triad and Two Priests, Asuka Period, 7th century

Oshidashi Butsu－Reproducing the Repousse Buddhist Image-Amida (Amitabha) Triad and Two Priests

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 19

August 7, 2018 (Tue) - September 16, 2019 (Mon)

Repousse Buddhist Images were produced by placing a thin bronze sheet over a relief, and hammering it into shape. These were popular between the late 7th and 8th centuries, and were displayed on temple walls, or placed in small shrines for private worship.
These full-scale models show the production process divided into 6stages. We hope that they enable visitors to learn about how this type of work was created and the materials used.

Details

Exhibitions

November 15, 2018 (Thu), Japanese Gallery (Honkan)

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"

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

The Rise of Buddhism: Asuka–Nara period

National Treasure Gallery: Hokan shu, Volume 2

Buddhist Art: Heian–Muromachi period

Courtly Art: Heian–Muromachi period

Zen and Ink Painting: Kamakura–Muromachi period

The Art of Tea Ceremony

Attire of the Military Elite: Heian–Edo period

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

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

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

Noh and Kabuki: Kabuki Costumes

Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

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

2nd floor

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor

Commemorating the Registration of "Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region" as World Heritage; Thematic Exhibition: Christian Articles in Japan

1st floor: Genre Exhibits

Japanese Sculpture

Lacquerware

Metalwork

Japanese Swords

Ceramics

Furnishings from the Higyosha of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto

Records of History

Ainu and Ryukyu: Life of the Ainu People

Conservation and Restoration

Modern Art

Oshidashi Butsu－Reproducing the Repousse Buddhist Image-Amida (Amitabha) Triad and Two Priests

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