FACE Exhibition 2026 in Japan Ticket

Overview

Experience the cutting edge of the Japanese art scene at the Sompo Museum of Art with the 14th edition of the FACE contemporary painting competition. This prestigious exhibition serves as a vital gateway for emerging artists, featuring works selected through a rigorous “blind” jury process that prioritizes raw talent and artistic vision over age or background. The collection showcases the evolving sensibilities of the mid-2020s, offering a diverse array of techniques and motifs that reflect the complexities of modern life.

As the museum celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, this year’s exhibition is larger and more significant than ever. Visitors can explore approximately 80 to 90 award-winning and selected pieces that push the boundaries of traditional painting into the realm of modern mixed media. Located in the architectural landmark of Shinjuku, the exhibition provides a serene space to engage with the newest voices in contemporary art while also enjoying the museum’s world-famous permanent collection.

Why Attend

• Discover the next generation of great Japanese painters before they gain international recognition in the global art market.
• Cast your own vote for the Audience Award, giving you a direct voice in determining which artist receives special recognition.
• Gain access to the museum’s legendary permanent collection, which includes Vincent van Gogh’s world-renowned masterpiece “Sunflowers.”
• Explore a wide variety of artistic styles and modern motifs that capture the immediate spirit and social themes of today’s world.
• Visit one of Tokyo’s most iconic museum buildings located in the heart of the vibrant Shinjuku skyscraper district.

Schedule & Tickets Information

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/03/07 (Sat) – 03/29 (Sun) 10:00 Start	Sompo Museum of Art (Tokyo)	General Admission, High school and younger

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Background

The FACE Exhibition at the Sompo Museum of Art is one of Japan’s most significant public entry competitions for contemporary painting. Established in 2012, it is widely regarded as a “gateway to success” for emerging artists, as the competition has no restrictions on age or professional affiliation. The 2026 edition marks the 14th year of the event, showcasing approximately 50 to 60 works selected from over a thousand nationwide submissions. A unique feature of this exhibition is the Audience Award, where visitors are given ballots to vote for their favorite piece, directly involving the public in the critical process of the art world.

The 2026 exhibition is particularly notable for featuring the Grand Prix winner Mariko Yoshida (for her work Heaven’s Tears) and other distinguished artists like Ito Hibiki and Kurosawa Takumi. Alongside the main competition, a concurrent special exhibition titled “The Way of Paintings” introduces new works by the previous year’s award winners, providing a deeper look into the evolving trajectories of these rising stars. This blend of fresh talent and recognized excellence, set against the backdrop of the museum’s permanent collection—which famously includes Van Gogh’s Sunflowers—makes FACE a vital pulse-check on the current state of Japanese contemporary art.

Venue Information

• Venue Name: Sompo Museum of Art
• Address: 1-26-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8338, Japan
• Entry Gates Info: The entrance is located on the ground floor of the distinctive, curved museum building in front of the Sompo Japan Headquarters; visitors typically take the elevator to the 5th floor and view the galleries in descending order.
• Nearby Landmarks: Shinjuku Station (West Exit), Sompo Japan Headquarters Building (the skyscraper with the flared base), and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Note about Sold-out Tickets

If the tickets you want are showing sold out, there’s no need to worry. Many events still have seats available through trusted and secure resale marketplaces in Japan. These platforms often release last-minute or premium seats that aren’t available on official sites.

If you need help, just contact us with your ticket name, seat type, and preferred date. We’ll quickly check the resale options for you and provide clear details about pricing, availability, and delivery so you can get your tickets without stress.

Faqs

What are the official opening hours for the Sompo Museum of Art?

The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the exhibition period. Please note that the final admission for the day is strictly 30 minutes before the museum closes to ensure a quality viewing experience.

Do high school students need to pay for entry to the FACE exhibition?

Admission is free for high school students and younger children. To take advantage of this, students must present a valid student identification card or their official student handbook to the staff at the venue on the day.

Is the museum closed on any specific days of the week?

The Sompo Museum of Art is closed every Monday. Visitors are encouraged to check the official museum calendar for any temporary closures or changes to the schedule that may occur during the exhibition dates.

Can I re-enter the museum if I need to step out for a moment?

Re-entry is not permitted at this exhibition. Once you exit the gallery space, your ticket becomes invalid for further entry, so it is recommended to complete your viewing of both the special and permanent collections in one visit.

How do I reach the Sompo Museum of Art in Tokyo?

The museum is conveniently located in Nishi-Shinjuku and is a short walk from Shinjuku Station. It is easily accessible via the JR lines, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, and the Oedo Line, making it a perfect stop in a Tokyo itinerary.