Best Things to Do in Tokyo – January 2025

Yoshitomo Nara (奈良美智) ‘Draws the Line’ at BLUM Tokyo

Tokyo’s vibrant art scene welcomes the latest exhibition of acclaimed Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara (奈良美智), I Draw the Line, hosted at BLUM Tokyo’s Shibuya gallery. Running until January 11, 2025, the solo exhibition showcases a fresh suite of paintings and drawings that merge Nara’s iconic style with deeper environmental and socio-political narratives.

“Sakura Momoko Exhibition” in Tokyo Roppongi, Featuring About 300 Works Including “Chibi Maruko-chan” Color Illustrations & Handwritten Manuscripts

The “Sakura Momoko Exhibition” will be held at Tokyo’s Mori Arts Center Gallery from October 5, 2024, to January 5, 2025. It will feature around 300 works, including original illustrations and manuscripts from “Chibi Maruko-chan” and other creations by Sakura Momoko. The exhibition offers a nostalgic journey through themed sections, celebrating her career as a manga artist, essayist, and screenwriter, and includes exclusive merchandise and a themed café.

Junaida “World” Original Art Exhibition

Celebrated illustrator junaida brings his acclaimed picture book Sekai (World) to life in an extraordinary exhibition. Running for a limited time, this unique showcase invites visitors to experience the magic of Sekai through a bold and innovative concept: just two original illustrations are on display.

Monet: The Late Waterscapes

This exhibition represents the largest gathering of Monet’s “Water Lilies” ever seen in Japan. The 64 paintings include some 50 items from the collection of the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris, which are shown alongside works from the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo and other Japanese collections.

100 years of Phototypesetting

An ongoing exhibition in Tokyo delves into this revolutionary technology, celebrating its history and its enduring impact on typography and beyond. This exhibition offers visitors a chance to explore phototypesetting’s pivotal role in shaping the printed word as we know it today.

Appearance of “The Tale of Genji” Revival of the classics

The world-renowned Japanese classic, The Tale of Genji, is being celebrated in a unique and immersive exhibition in Tokyo this winter. Running from September 25, 2024, to January 13, 2025, this event offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to explore the cultural significance and enduring appeal of what is often considered the world’s first novel.

Hello Kitty Exhibition – As I Change, Kitty Changes Too

The “Hello Kitty Exhibition – As I Change, Kitty Changes Too” celebrates Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary, running from November 1, 2024, to February 24, 2025, at the Tokyo National Museum’s Hyokeikan. It showcases the evolution of this global icon, featuring the largest collection of Hello Kitty merchandise, exclusive artist collaborations, and interactive photo spots. The exhibition explores her lasting cultural impact and connection with fans worldwide.

World Book Design 2023-24

From December 14, 2024, to March 23, 2025, Tokyo will host an extraordinary showcase of global book artistry at the World Book Design 2023-24 exhibition. Held at a venue renowned for celebrating creative excellence, this event promises an immersive journey into the evolving trends and timeless craftsmanship of book design.

Ryuichi Sakamoto (坂本龍一) | Seeing Sound, Hearing Time

The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT) is hosting a remarkable tribute to one of Japan’s most iconic and innovative artists with the exhibition Ryuichi Sakamoto | seeing sound, hearing time. Running now at MOT, this exhibition celebrates the unparalleled career of composer, artist, and activist Ryuichi Sakamoto (坂本龍一) (1952–2023), showcasing his groundbreaking contributions to music, art, and environmental activism.

Leo Lionni and his Circle of Friends

Tokyo’s Itabashi Art Museum is hosting a captivating exhibition that delves into the life and works of Leo Lionni (1910–1999), a multidisciplinary artist, designer, and children’s book author whose creations have enthralled audiences for over six decades. Best known for his iconic books like Swimmy and Little Blue and Little Yellow, Lionni’s artistic legacy spans from abstract painting to graphic design and storytelling. This retrospective, titled “Leo Lionni and His Circle of Friends”, provides an in-depth exploration of his artistic journey, influences, and collaborations across Europe and the United States.