October 10, 2019 (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

June 25, 2019 (Tue) -
December 25, 2019 (Wed)
The Arrival of Buddhism | 6th–8th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

October 8, 2019 (Tue) -
November 17, 2019 (Sun)
National Treasure Gallery: Sixteen Arhats: 7th Arhat and 10th Arhat

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 2

October 1, 2019 (Tue) -
October 27, 2019 (Sun)
The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 8, 2019 (Tue) -
October 20, 2019 (Sun)
The Arts of the Imperial Court | 8th–16th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 8, 2019 (Tue) -
November 17, 2019 (Sun)
Zen and Ink Painting | 13th–16th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 8, 2019 (Tue) -
October 20, 2019 (Sun)
Tea Ceremony

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 4

September 10, 2019 (Tue) -
December 1, 2019 (Sun)
Arms and Armor of the Samurai | 12th–19th century

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

August 27, 2019 (Tue) -
November 17, 2019 (Sun)
Paintings on Folding Screens and Sliding Doors | 16th–19th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 7

October 8, 2019 (Tue) -
November 24, 2019 (Sun)
The Arts of Daily Life: Azuchi-Momoyama–Edo period

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

July 30, 2019 (Tue) -
October 27, 2019 (Sun)
Painting and Calligraphy | 16th–19th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

October 8, 2019 (Tue) -
November 24, 2019 (Sun)
Noh and Kabuki: Masks and Robes in the Noh Play Kashiwazaki

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 9

August 27, 2019 (Tue) -
October 20, 2019 (Sun)
Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

August 27, 2019 (Tue) -
October 20, 2019 (Sun)
The Art of Ukiyo-e | 17th–19th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

September 25, 2019 (Wed) -
October 20, 2019 (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

June 25, 2019 (Tue) - December 25, 2019 (Wed)

The roots of Japanese aesthetics can be seen in earthenware from the Jomon and Yayoi periods, as well as in dogu (small earthen figurines from Jomon period), dotaku (bronze bell-shaped ritual item from the Yayoi period), haniwa (terracotta figures from the Kofun period) and bronze mirrors (used as symbols of authority in the Yayoi and Kofun periods).

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, Excavated from Oiwayama, Koshinohara, Yasu-shi, Shiga, Yayoi period, 1st–3rd century (Important Cultural Property)
Haniwa (Terracotta tomb object), Monkey, Attributed provenance: Dainichizuka Tumulus, Namegata-shi, Ibaraki, Kofun period, 6th century (Important Cultural Property)

Ritual Objects Used to Consecrate the Site of Kohfukuji Temple, Eight-Lobed Mirror with Design of Auspicious Flowers and Paired Phoenixes, Excavated from under altar of Main Hall at Kohfukuji, Nara, Tang dynasty, 8th century (National Treasure)

The Arrival of Buddhism | 6th–8th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 1

October 8, 2019 (Tue) - November 17, 2019 (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 6th–8th century.

Current exhibit includes:
Standing Bodhisattva, Asuka period, 7th century
Sovereign Kings of the Golden Light Sutra, Vol. 7, Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by the Agency for Cultural Affairs)
Ritual Objects Used to Consecrate the Site of Kohfukuji Temple, Strips of Beaten Gold, Excavated from under altar of Main Hall at Kohfukuji, Nara, Nara period, 8th century (National Treasure)
Ritual Objects Used to Consecrate the Site of Kohfukuji Temple, Eight-Lobed Mirror with Design of Flowers and Paired Butterflies, Excavated from under altar of Main Hall at Kohfukuji, Nara, Nara period, 8th century (National Treasure)
Ritual Object Used to Consecrate Site of Kohfukuji TempleLarge Silver Bowl, Excavated from under altar of Main Hall at Kohfukuji, Nara, Nara period, 8th century (National Treasure)

List of Exhibits

Sixteen Arhats: Seventh Arhat (detail), Heian period, 11th century (National Treasure)

National Treasure Gallery: Sixteen Arhats: 7th Arhat and 10th Arhat

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 2

October 1, 2019 (Tue) - October 27, 2019 (Sun)

Arhats are holy men who have completed their Buddhist training. The sixteen arhats were purportedly entrusted by the Buddha to maintain the Buddhist Law and save living beings after his death. These exceptional paintings are the oldest extant images of arhats from this grouping. Their characteristics include forms that originated in Tang-dynasty China and an emphasis on the use of gentle colors favored by the Japanese nobility of the 11th century.

List of Exhibits

Life of Prince Shotoku (detail), Nanbokuchō period, 14th century (Gift of Mr. Kawai Gyokudō)

The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 8, 2019 (Tue) - October 20, 2019 (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:
Life of Prince Shotoku, Nanbokuchō period, 14th century (Gift of Mr. Kawai Gyokudō)
Prince Shōtoku, Nanbokuchō period, 14th century (Important Art Object, Lent by Jikōmyōin Temple, Yamagata)
Volume 4 of the Lotus Sutra, By Taira no Kiyomori and Taira no Yorimori Passed down by the Maeda clan of Kaga, Heian period, 1171 (Important Cultural Property, Private collection)
Chapter 1 of the Innumerable Meanings Sutra (Called the “Kunōji Temple Sutra”), Heian period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property)
Head of a Monk’s Staff, Found on Mount Dainichi, Toyama, Heian period, 11th century (Important Cultural Property, Private collection)
Head of a Monk’s Staff, Heian period, dated 1142 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Tesshuji Temple, Shizuoka)

Record of the Transmission of Teachings about the Collection of Japanese Poems Ancient and Modern, By Tō no Tsuneyori, Muromachi period, 1472

The Arts of the Imperial Court | 8th–16th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 8, 2019 (Tue) - November 17, 2019 (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:
Record of the Transmission of Teachings about the Collection of Japanese Poems Ancient and Modern, By Iio Sōgi, Muromachi period, 15th century
Record of the Transmission of Teachings about the Collection of Japanese Poems Ancient and Modern, By Tō no Tsuneyori, Muromachi period, 1472

Landscape, Attributed to Shubun; inscription dated 1455, by Jiku'un Toren, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Yamamoto Tatsuro)

Zen and Ink Painting | 13th–16th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 3

October 8, 2019 (Tue) - October 20, 2019 (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:
Landscape, Attributed to Shubun; inscription dated 1455, by Jiku'un Toren, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Yamamoto Tatsuro)

Fan-Shaped Food Cups (Mukozuke) (detail), Mino ware, Oribe type, Edo period, 17th century

Tea Ceremony

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 4

September 10, 2019 (Tue) - December 1, 2019 (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, Named “Tago no Tsuki (The Moon of Tago)”, Komogai type, Joseon dynasty, 16th–17th century (Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Flower Vase with Elephant-Shaped Handles, Named “Akizuki (Autumn Moon)”, Muromachi period, 15th–16th century (Gift of Mr. Matsunaga Yasuzaemon)
Fan-Shaped Food Cups (Mukozuke), Mino ware, Oribe type, Edo period, 17th century

Armor (Gusoku) with a Two-Piece Cuirass and White Lacing, Edo period, 17th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yoshihiro)

Arms and Armor of the Samurai | 12th–19th century

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

August 27, 2019 (Tue) - November 17, 2019 (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:
Armor (Gusoku) with a Two-Piece Cuirass and White Lacing, Edo period, 17th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yoshihiro)
Outer Robe (Dobuku) with Wild-Ginger Crests and Ivy, Reportedly worn by Tokugawa Ieyasu, Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th–17th century

Outing in Mountains and Fields (detail), By Yosa Buson, Edo period, 18th century (Important Cultural Property)

Paintings on Folding Screens and Sliding Doors | 16th–19th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 7

October 8, 2019 (Tue) - November 24, 2019 (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:
Outing in Mountains and Fields, By Yosa Buson, Edo period, 18th century (Important Cultural Property)

Tea Bowl with a Mantis and the Moon, By Eiraku Hozen, Edo period, 19th century

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

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

July 30, 2019 (Tue) - October 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:
Confectionary Box with Flowering Plants, By Tanda Chubei, Edo period, 18th century, (Gift of Mr. Ito Kashinosuke)
Hitoe (Summer garment) Stream, reed, and wild goose design on purple ro gauze ground, Edo period, 18th century (Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyo)
Robe (Kosode) with Flowing Water, Plants, Pavilions, and Insect Cages, Edo period, 19th century
Handled Mirror with Ripe Rice Plants, Inscribed “Nishimura Bungo no Jo Fujiwara Masashige”, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)
Large Bowl with Flowering Plants, Karatsu ware, Edo period, 17th century
Tea Bowl with a Mantis and the Moon, By Eiraku Hozen, Edo period, 19th century
Large Dish with Ferns, Imari ware, Edo period, 18th-19th century (Gift of Mr. Hirano Kosuke)

Old Temple Amid Mountains and Pines (detail), By Tanomura Chikuden, Edo period, ca. 1832 (Important Cultural Property)

Painting and Calligraphy | 16th–19th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 8

October 8, 2019 (Tue) - November 24, 2019 (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:
Old Temple Amid Mountains and Pines, By Tanomura Chikuden, Edo period, ca. 1832 (Important Cultural Property)
Calligraphy in One Line, By Ryōkan, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Takeuchi Shizuko)

Noh Costume (Karaori) with Autumn Grasses, Formerly owned by the Uesugi clan, Edo period, 18th century

Noh and Kabuki: Masks and Robes in the Noh Play Kashiwazaki

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 9

August 27, 2019 (Tue) - October 20, 2019 (Sun)

In the Noh play Kashiwazaki, the wife of the lord of Kashiwazaki in Echigo (now Niigata Prefecture) loses her mind due to the sudden death of her husband. On her way to mourn the death of her husband, she is unexpectedly reunited with her son at the temple Zenkoji in Shinano (now Nagano prefecture). One of the highlights of Shirazaki is a scene in which the lead actor changes his costume on stage.

Current exhibit includes:
Noh Costume (Karaori) with Autumn Grasses, Formerly owned by the Uesugi clan, Edo period, 18th century
Noh Costume Nuihaku with Woven-Wood Fences, Autumn Grasses, Linked Circles, Bottle Gourds, Flowing Water, and Irises, Edo period, 18th century (Lent by Agency for Cultural Affairs)

Unlined Summer Robe (Katabira) with Flowing Water and Bush Clovers (detail), Edo period, 18th century

Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

August 27, 2019 (Tue) - October 20, 2019 (Sun)

Introduces the fashion of the Edo period townspeople. Enjoy comparing with the ukiyo-e works exhibited in the same room.

Current exhibit includes:
Unlined Summer Robe (Katabira) with Flowing Water and Bush Clovers, Edo period, 18th century
Robe (Kosode) with Chrysanthemums, Fishing Nets, and Calligraphy, Edo period, 18th century
Case (Inro) with a Scene from the Noh Play Kikujido, Meiji era, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Quincy A. Shaw)

"High-Ranked Courtesan" from the Series Five Shades of Ink in the Northern Quarter, By Kitagawa Utamaro (1753?-1806), Edo period, 18th century

The Art of Ukiyo-e | 17th–19th century

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"
Room 10

September 25, 2019 (Wed) - October 20, 2019 (Sun)

In the 17th century, painters started depicting the lives of commoners in a genre known as ukiyo-e. With the advent of new printing technology, these images began to be reproduced in high numbers, and ukiyo-e gradually spread to all layers of society. The addition of colorists to the publishers’ craftsmen also led to the birth of the color print in the mid-18th century. From September 25–October 20, 2019, this gallery displays paintings and prints of beautiful women by Suzuki Harunobu, Kitagawa Utamaro and others, autumn landscapes, and pictures of insects and grasses by Katsushika Hokusai and Kikukawa Eizan.

Current exhibit includes:
"High-Ranked Courtesan" from the Series Five Shades of Ink in the Northern Quarter, By Kitagawa Utamaro (1753?-1806), Edo period, 18th century
Horsefly and Chrysanthemums, By Katsushika Hokusai, Edo period, 19th century
"Hakone" from the Series Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō Road, By Utagawa Hiroshige, Edo period, 19th century (Private collection)

2nd floor

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor The Prince Takamado Collection Room

July 30, 2019 (Tue) -
October 27, 2019 (Sun)

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor The Prince Takamado Collection Room

July 30, 2019 (Tue) - October 27, 2019 (Sun)

Including:
Nine-Tailed Fox, Bishu Saito, 1986
Beginning and End, By Kiho Takagi, 1995
Wind Shines, By Kozan Fukuyama, 1994
Squirrel, By Yako (Akemi) Ota, 1997
Lovelorn Ghost, By Michael Birch, Dated 1976

2nd floor

Thematic Exhibition

Heian Court Calligraphy: The Iijima Shunkei Collection

2nd floor
Room T1

October 1, 2019 (Tue) -
November 17, 2019 (Sun)

Letter (detail), By Fujiwara no Kozei, Heian period, dated 1020 (Important Cultural Property)

Thematic Exhibition

Heian Court Calligraphy: The Iijima Shunkei Collection

2nd floor
Room T1

October 1, 2019 (Tue) - November 17, 2019 (Sun)

During the Heian period (794–1192), a Japanese phonetic script based on Chinese characters known as kana became widespread among the ruling class. Kana became a vehicle for the flourishing literary culture of the imperial court, where nobles developed distinct Japanese calligraphy styles on lavishly-decorated paper.
In this thematic exhibition, we introduce works from the collection of Iijima Shunkei (1906–96), a collector and pioneering scholar of Heian court calligraphy.

Details

1st floor: Genre Exhibits

Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 11

September 25, 2019 (Wed) -
February 24, 2020 (Mon)
Lacquerware

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 12

September 18, 2019 (Wed) -
December 8, 2019 (Sun)
Metalwork

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

September 18, 2019 (Wed) -
November 4, 2019 (Mon)
Swords

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

October 1, 2019 (Tue) -
November 4, 2019 (Mon)
Ceramics

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

September 10, 2019 (Tue) -
November 4, 2019 (Mon)
Thematic Exhibition

The Beauty of Unglazed Tea Wares: From the Kilns of Bizen, Shigaraki, Iga, and Tanba

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 14

September 18, 2019 (Wed) -
December 8, 2019 (Sun)
Records of History

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 15

August 20, 2019 (Tue) -
October 20, 2019 (Sun)
Ainu and Ryūkyū

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 16

September 10, 2019 (Tue) -
December 8, 2019 (Sun)
Conservation and Restoration

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 17

April 15, 2014 (Tue) -
March 31, 2020 (Tue)
Art of the Modern Era | Late 19th–first half of 20th century

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 18

September 3, 2019 (Tue) -
December 8, 2019 (Sun)
Secrets of Asian Paints:
Reproducing the National Treasure Red and White Cotton Rosemallow

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 19

September 18, 2019 (Wed) -
February 21, 2020 (Fri)

Standing Juni Shinsho (Twelve Heavenly Generals): Bishin (Who protects the direction of the sheep), Passed down at Jōruriji Temple, Kyoto, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)

Sculpture

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 11

September 25, 2019 (Wed) - February 24, 2020 (Mon)

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:
The Rooster General, One of the Twelve Divine Generals, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Murouji Temple, Nara)
The Snake General, One of the Twelve Divine Generals, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Murouji Temple, Nara)
The Dog General, One of the Twelve Divine Generals, Passed down at Jōruriji Temple, Kyoto, Kamakura period, 13th century(Important Cultural Property)
Standing Juni Shinsho (Twelve Heavenly Generals): Bishin (Who protects the direction of the sheep), Passed down at Jōruriji Temple, Kyoto, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)
The Buddha Amida, the Central Image of a Buddha Triad, Heian period, dated 1176 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Saikōin Temple, Saitama)
The Buddha Amida, Passed down at Kōmyōin Temple, Hiroshima, Heian-Kamakura period, 12th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Taishō University)
The Buddha Shaka, Heian period, 9th century (National Treasure, Lent by Murouji Temple, Nara)
The Eleven-Headed Bodhisattva Kannon, Heian period, 9th–10th century (National Treasure, Lent by Murouji Temple, Nara)

Writing Box, Design of bugaku dance in maki-e lacquer, Attributed to Hon'ami Koetsu, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

Lacquerware

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 12

September 18, 2019 (Wed) - December 8, 2019 (Sun)

Features maki-e works from 12th century to 19th century. The exhibit shows the history and beauty of maki-e, a unique lacquerwork method that developed in Japan.

Current exhibition includes:
Cosmetic Box with Cypress-Fan Crests, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)
Writing Box with a Brushwood Fence and Ivy, By Koma Kyūi, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)
Lamp Stand, Hosoge flower design in mother of pearl inlay and Heijin maki-e lacquer, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Daichōjuin Temple, Iwate)
Sutra Box with the Moon and Peonies, Kamakura period, 13th–14th century (National Treasure, Lent by Saidaiji Temple, Nara)
Box for Monk's Robes with Squirrel's Foot Ferns and Arrowroot, Donated to temple in Nanbokucho period, 1342 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Kongōbuji Temple, Wakayama)
Footed Chest with Suminoe Beach, Nanbokucho period, dated 1357 (Important Cultural Property)
Mirror Box with Paulownias, Bamboo, and Phoenixes, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Atsuta Shrine, Aichi)
Writing Box with a Bugaku Performer, Attributed to Hon'ami Kōetsu, Edo period, 17th century (Important Cultural Property)

“Flower Garland” with Blue Magpies, Kamakura period, 13th century

Metalwork

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

September 18, 2019 (Wed) - November 4, 2019 (Mon)

Decoration in Buddhism involves sumptuous representations of Buddhas, as well as ritual interiors of temple halls. The adornments used for this purpose are known collectively in Japanese as shogongu. This exhibition introduces Buddhist ritual implements such as containers for sarira, or literally, “Buddha’s relics,” together with items for esoteric Buddhist altars, and interior decor including ritual banners and pendent floral openwork ornaments. The works present an overview of multifarious metalwork techniques such as casting, carving, and forging.

Current exhibit includes:
Container from a Reliquary Set, Found at former site of Mishima Temple, Ōda, Ibaraki-shi, Osaka, Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirano Sutejirō and Mr. Ōta Jisaburō)
Jar from a Reliquary Set, Found at former site of Mishima Temple, Ōda, Ibaraki-shi, Osaka, Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirano Sutejirō and Mr. Ōta Jisaburō)
Box from a Reliquary Set, Found at former site of Mishima Temple, Ōda, Ibaraki-shi, Osaka, Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirano Sutejirō and Mr. Ōta Jisaburō)
Box from a Reliquary Set, Found at former site of Mishima Temple, Ōda, Ibaraki-shi, Osaka, Nara period, 8th century (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Mr. Hirano Sutejirō and Mr. Ōta Jisaburō)
“Flower Garland” with Lotuses, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Kongōrinji Temple, Shiga)
“Flower Garland” with a Seed Syllable, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Nara National Museum)
“Flower Garland” with Lotuses, Muromachi period, 15th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Jinshōji Temple, Shiga)

Long Sword (Tachi), Named “Koryū Kagemitsu” (detail), By Kagemitsu, Kamakura period, 1322 (National Treasure)

Swords

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

October 1, 2019 (Tue) - November 4, 2019 (Mon)

Exhibits selected swords and sword-fittings from the Heian to Edo periods, including the Long Sword (Tachi), Named “Koryū Kagemitsu”, By Kagemitsu.

Current exhibit includes:
Long Sword (Tachi), By Tomonari, Heian period, 11th–12th century (National Treasure, Gift of Mr. Yamamoto Tatsurō)
Long Sword (Tachi), Named “Koryū Kagemitsu”, By Kagemitsu, Kamakura period, 1322 (National Treasure)

Water Jar with a Lotus, Imari ware, Edo period, 17th century

Ceramics

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 13

September 10, 2019 (Tue) - November 4, 2019 (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:
Large Jar, Natural glaze, Echizen ware, Muromachi period, 16th century (Lent by the Agency for Cultural Affairs)
Tea Bowl, By Donyu, Edo period, 17th century (Gift of Mr. Hirota Matsushige)
Rectangular Dish with Autumn Grasses, Mino ware, Nezumi-shino type, Azuchi-Momoyama—Edo period, 16th—17th century (Private collection)
Bowl with Cherry Blossoms and Maple Leaves, By Ninnami Dohachi, Edo period, ca. mid-19th century (Important Art Object, Private collection)
Water Jar with a Lotus, Imari ware, Edo period, 17th century
Sake Bottle with Autumn Grasses, Imari ware, Kakiemon type, Edo period, 17th century (Private collection)
Hexagonal Jar, Design of flowering plants and phoenixes in overglaze enamel, Imari ware, Kakiemon type, Edo period, 17th century (Private collection)
Tea Bowl with Quails and Millet, Satsuma (Tateno) ware, Edo period, second half of 19th century (Gift of Mr. Naito Gyoho)

Flower Vase with Lugs, Iga ware, Edo period, 17th century

Thematic Exhibition

The Beauty of Unglazed Tea Wares: From the Kilns of Bizen, Shigaraki, Iga, and Tanba

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 14

September 18, 2019 (Wed) - December 8, 2019 (Sun)

This exhibition showcases tea wares created at some of the major Japanese kilns—Bizen, Shigaraki, Iga, and Tanba—that are known for the production of unglazed ceramic wares.

Details

Shishinden Hall, Kyoto Imperial Palace (detail), By Yokoyama Matsusaburo, 1872 (Important Cultural Property, On exhibit from September 18, 2019)

Records of History

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 15

August 20, 2019 (Tue) - October 20, 2019 (Sun)

The Tokyo National Museum holds many artworks and other materials that shine light on history, with the foundation of this collection consisting of materials inherited from the shogun’s government of the Edo period (1603–1868). From the time of the Museum’s establishment in 1872, this foundation was supplemented with additional materials collected through exhibitions and surveys of cultural properties. This gallery displays albums of natural science, a discipline that thrived in the Edo period, maps created in the Edo period and the following Meiji era, ink rubbings of calligraphy inscribed into stone and metal, and a variety of other historical materials. In addition, photographs from the late 19th and early 20th century, which show the people and scenery of the day, as well as expositions and cultural properties, are also shown periodically.

Current exhibit includes:
Map of Nebukawa Road, Mount Izu, Atami: Higane, Karuizawa; Hirai: Tamazawa, Formerly owned by Asakusa Bunko, Edo period, dated 1806 (Important Cultural Property)
Shishinden Hall, Kyoto Imperial Palace, By Yokoyama Matsusaburo, 1872 (Important Cultural Property)

Ritual Hoe-shaped Crest, Hokkaido Ainu, Found at Sakurayama, Kakuta, Kuriyama Town, Hokkaido, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Oda Katsukichi and Mr. Izumi Rintaro)

Ainu and Ryūkyū

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 16

September 10, 2019 (Tue) - December 8, 2019 (Sun)

Stretching from north to south, the Japanese archipelago is home to diverse cultures that have flourished in its rich natural environments. Representing such cultures from northern Japan, this gallery exhibits a range of items created by the Ainu people featuring their distinctive designs, a typical example of which is a moreu whirl pattern. These items include ritual implements, clothing, and wooden objects. Also on display in this gallery are decorative art objects from the Ryukyu Kingdom, representing a southern culture. The Ryukyu Kingdom developed its unique culture through trade and exchange with many regions including China, Japan, the Korean peninsula, and Southeast Asia. Metalwork objects and textiles created mainly during the Kingdom’s Second Sho dynasty (1469–1879) are featured here.

Current exhibit includes:
Ainu:
Sash for Shaman, Sakhalin Ainu, 19th century (Gift of the Hokkaido Project Management Bureau, Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce)
Necklace, Hokkaido Ainu, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)
Bear Cage (Model), Hokkaido Ainu, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Tokugawa Yorisada)
Ritual Hoe-shaped Crest, Hokkaido Ainu, Found at Sakurayama, Kakuta, Kuriyama Town, Hokkaido, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Oda Katsukichi and Mr. Izumi Rintaro)

Ryukyu:
Covered Food Box, Chrysanthemum design, Chrysanthemum design in tsuikin work (appliqué of colored lacquer cutouts）, Okinawa Main Island, Second Sho dynasty, Ryukyu kingdom, 19th century
Headwear for Prince, Okinawa Main Island, Second Sho dynasty, Ryukyu kingdom, 19th century (Gift of Mr. Higa Kamato)

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.

Jar, White porcelain with grape scroll design in relief, By Itaya Hazan, Showa era, 20th century

Art of the Modern Era | Late 19th–first half of 20th century

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 18

September 3, 2019 (Tue) - December 8, 2019 (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:
Stone Buddha of Datong, By Maeda Seison, 1938 (Gift of the artist)
A Christian and a Buddhist, By Maeda Seison, 1917
Night Scene at the Railway Station, By Takamura Shinpu, Taisho era, 20th century (Gift of the artist)
Large Vase with a Plum Tree, By Miyagawa Kozan I, 1892 (Important Cultural Property, Gift of Japan Delegate Office for World's Columbian Exposition)
Jar, White porcelain with grape scroll design in relief, By Itaya Hazan, Showa era, 20th century
Flower Vase, Butterfly design, By Kanazawa Copper Ware Company, Dated 1892 (Gift of the Japan Delegate Office for the Chicago World's Fair)

Secrets of Asian Paints:
Reproducing the National Treasure Red and White Cotton Rosemallow

1st floor: Genre Exhibits
Room 19

September 18, 2019 (Wed) - February 21, 2020 (Fri)

In traditional Asian painting, the paints were made from natural substances, such as minerals, plants, animals, and even insects. Depending on the base substances, the color tones and usability of the paints differed. Understanding the unique properties of each type of paint, as well as effective use and combination of different paints, allowed for increased variation in painted depictions. The National Treasure Red and White Cotton Rosemallow is an example of works in which the unique properties of the paints have been skillfully utilized. It is a pair of paintings created by the Chinese court painter Li Di in 1197, during the Southern Song dynasty. From this pair of hanging scroll paintings, the one depicting pink flowers has been reproduced based on research.

Details

1st floor

Commemorating 30 Years of Conservation Projects Supported by the Sumitomo Foundation:
Special Thematic Exhibition: New Life for Timeless Art

1st floor
Room T4 & T5

October 1, 2019 (Tue) -
December 1, 2019 (Sun)

Seated Amida Nyorai (Amitabha) with Jeweled Crown, Kamakura period, 12–13th century (Aichi, Zaikaji)

Commemorating 30 Years of Conservation Projects Supported by the Sumitomo Foundation:
Special Thematic Exhibition: New Life for Timeless Art

1st floor
Room T4 & T5

October 1, 2019 (Tue) - December 1, 2019 (Sun)

The Sumitomo Foundation is celebrating thirty years of providing funding for the conservation of cultural properties. To mark this occasion, exhibitions of works that have received funding through the foundation will be held across four museums: Sen-oku Hakukokan Museum (Kyoto), Sen-oku Hakukokan Museum, Tokyo (Tokyo), the Kyushu National Museum, and the Tokyo National Museum. The Tokyo National Museum will host a special thematic exhibition featuring Buddhist statues.
An impressive number of Buddhist statues have survived to modern times in Japan. In mountainous and rural regions, traditions venerating Buddhist statues attest to the importance these statues held for local communities. This exhibition will present Buddhist statues that have been cherished and handed down by such communities, including those affected by The Great East Japan Earthquake (2011) and The Noto Hanto Earthquake (2007).

Details

Exhibitions

October 10, 2019 (Thu), Japanese Gallery (Honkan)

2nd floor "Highlights of Japanese Art"

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

The Arrival of Buddhism | 6th–8th century

National Treasure Gallery: Sixteen Arhats: 7th Arhat and 10th Arhat

The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century

The Arts of the Imperial Court | 8th–16th century

Zen and Ink Painting | 13th–16th century

Tea Ceremony

Arms and Armor of the Samurai | 12th–19th century

Paintings on Folding Screens and Sliding Doors | 16th–19th century

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

Painting and Calligraphy | 16th–19th century

Noh and Kabuki: Masks and Robes in the Noh Play Kashiwazaki

Ukiyo-e and Fashion in the Edo Period: Fashion

The Art of Ukiyo-e | 17th–19th century

2nd floor

Netsuke: The Prince Takamado Collection

2nd floor

Heian Court Calligraphy: The Iijima Shunkei Collection

1st floor: Genre Exhibits

Sculpture

Lacquerware

Metalwork

Swords

Ceramics

The Beauty of Unglazed Tea Wares: From the Kilns of Bizen, Shigaraki, Iga, and Tanba

Records of History

Ainu and Ryūkyū

Conservation and Restoration

Art of the Modern Era | Late 19th–first half of 20th century

Secrets of Asian Paints: Reproducing the National Treasure Red and White Cotton Rosemallow

1st floor

Commemorating 30 Years of Conservation Projects Supported by the Sumitomo Foundation: Special Thematic Exhibition: New Life for Timeless Art

Secrets of Asian Paints:
Reproducing the National Treasure Red and White Cotton Rosemallow

Commemorating 30 Years of Conservation Projects Supported by the Sumitomo Foundation:
Special Thematic Exhibition: New Life for Timeless Art