As spring breathes new life into Tokyo, the Imperial Palace’s Museum of the Imperial Collections, Sannomaru Shozokan, invites art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to immerse themselves in the “A Flourish of Flowers—The Beauty of Blossoms” exhibition. Running from March 11 to May 6, 2025, this captivating showcase celebrates the timeless allure of floral motifs in Japanese art.​

A Celebration of Floral Artistry

Flowers have long held a cherished place in Japanese culture, symbolizing the ephemeral beauty of life and the changing seasons. This exhibition brings together 45 exquisite works from the Imperial Household’s collection, spanning from the 11th century to contemporary times. Visitors will encounter a diverse array of paintings, calligraphy, and decorative arts, each piece reflecting the profound appreciation for blossoms that has permeated Japanese artistry through the ages.

Highlights Not to Be Missed

Among the treasures on display are four scrolls from the renowned “Colorful Realm of Living Beings” series by Edo-period master Ito Jakuchu (1716–1800). These National Treasure paintings vividly depict birds and flowers in harmonious splendor. The exhibition is divided into two rotations:

March 11–April 6: “Peach Blossoms and Small Birds” and “Peonies and Small Birds.”

April 8–May 6: “Plum Blossoms and Small Birds” and “Roses and a Small Bird.”​

Additionally, visitors can admire “Poppies” by Tsuchida Bakusen (1929), Namikawa Yasuyuki’s intricately crafted “Vase with Birds and Flowers of the Four Seasons” (1899), and the elegant “Long-Sleeved Kimono with Floral Roundels” from the early 20th century. Each work offers a unique interpretation of floral beauty, showcasing the artists’ mastery and the cultural significance of blossoms in Japan.​

Exhibition Details:

Dates: March 11 (Tue) – May 6 (Tue), 2025​

Hours: 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM). Extended hours until 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, except March 28 and April 25.

Venue: Museum of the Imperial Collections, Sannomaru Shozokan, 1-8 Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0001 (within the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace)

Ticket: Adults ¥1,000; University students ¥500; Free for high school students and younger, individuals under 18, and those 70 and above (valid ID required). Visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person receive free admission.

More information: https://pr-shozokan.nich.go.jp/2025flowers/index_en.html