Takashi Yanase Exhibition: Life is a game of joy 2026 in Japan Ticket

Overview

Takashi Yanase was a versatile artist who worked as a manga artist, poet, picture book author, illustrator, designer, and editor, and was also a consummate entertainer. Having endured the harsh experiences of war and separation from his family, he arrived at the image of a hero who gives a piece of bread, or “anpan,” to those truly in need.

This exhibition commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Kami City Yanase Takashi Memorial Anpanman Museum in 2026. It explores his legacy through approximately 200 original drawings across themes like “Manga,” “Poetry,” and “Anpanman,” celebrating his greatest joy in life: making people happy.

Why Attend

• Witness the 30th-anniversary celebration of the creator of Japan’s most beloved hero, Anpanman.
• Explore approximately 200 rare original drawings and multifaceted works from Yanase’s 60-year career.
• Gain deep insight into the humanitarian themes of “joy” and “sacrifice” born from Yanase’s wartime experiences.
• Experience a comprehensive display of manga, poetry, and picture books at the prestigious Matsuzakaya Museum of Art.

Schedule & Tickets Information

Date	Venue	Seat Types
2026/02/06 (Fri) – 2026/04/05 (Sun)	Matsuzakaya Museum of Art (Nagoya)	General Admission, High School/University, Elementary/Junior High

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Background

The exhibition “Takashi Yanase: Life is a Game of Joy” is a major traveling retrospective commemorating the creator of Anpanman, one of Japan’s most enduring cultural icons. While the world knows Yanase primarily for his bean-jam-headed hero, this exhibition reveals a multi-faceted entertainer who was also a prolific poet, a magazine editor, and a graphic designer. Spanning over 60 years of work, the collection of approximately 200 original items illustrates his personal philosophy that life’s greatest fulfillment comes from bringing happiness to others—a belief forged during his harrowing experiences of hunger and loss during World War II.

Visitors can explore the evolution of Yanase’s artistry from his early days as a newspaper cartoonist and commercial designer for Mitsukoshi to the 1973 birth of the “weakest hero,” Anpanman. The Nagoya stop is particularly notable for featuring exclusive interview footage with Yanase, recorded for a local television program, providing a rare, intimate look at the man behind the characters. By showcasing his lyrical poetry alongside his iconic illustrations, the exhibition highlights the “Yanase touch”—a unique blend of gentle humor, deep humanitarianism, and the unwavering pursuit of a “justice” that heals rather than hurts.

Venue Information

• Venue Name: Matsuzakaya Museum of Art (Matsuzakaya Art Museum)
• Address: 7F Matsuzakaya Nagoya Store South Building, 3-16-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 460-8430, Japan
• Entry Gates Info: * South Building 7F Entrance: The museum is located on the 7th floor of the South Building; use the department store elevators or escalators to reach the gallery level.
  • Underground Access: Direct walk-in via the underground passage from Yaba-cho Station (Meijo Subway Line), which leads straight into the Matsuzakaya basement levels.
• Nearby Landmarks: Situated in the heart of the Sakae shopping district, directly adjacent to Hisaya Odori Park and within walking distance of the Nagoya TV Tower (MIRAI TOWER).

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FAQs

Who is the artist featured in this exhibition?

The exhibition is dedicated to Takashi Yanase, the creator of Anpanman. He was an influential post-war artist who excelled as a manga creator, poet, and illustrator, focusing his career on the theme of bringing joy to others.

Where is the Matsuzakaya Museum of Art located?

The museum is located on the 7th floor of the Matsuzakaya Nagoya Store, South Building, in Aichi Prefecture. It is a central cultural landmark in Nagoya, easily accessible by public transportation.

What are the opening hours for the exhibition?

The exhibition is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. Please note that the last admission is allowed until 17:30, so it is recommended to arrive early to fully enjoy the 200 original drawings on display.

Do students need to provide identification for entry?

Yes, high school, university, and junior high school students must present a valid student ID at the entrance. This is required to verify eligibility for the specific student ticket categories.

Can preschool children attend the exhibition?

Preschool children are welcome but must be accompanied by a guardian who is 18 years of age or older. Admission is generally free for preschool-aged children, though they must be supervised at all times.