Complete Guide: Galaxy Express 999 50th Anniversary—Leiji Matsumoto Exhibition "The Creative Journey"
General Information
- Dates: June 20, 2025 (Fri) – September 7, 2025 (Sun)
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last entry: one hour before closing)
- Venue: Tokyo City View, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 52F, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Official website: https://leiji-m-exh.jp
Exhibition Highlights
- Over 300 original illustrations and rare, never-before-seen materials from Leiji Matsumoto’s 70+ years as a manga artist.
- Experience the universe of Galaxy Express 999, plus works like "Space Battleship Yamato", "Captain Harlock", and "Otoko Oidon".
- A replica Galaxy Express 999 platform and 999 locomotive monument greets you at the entrance—feel like your own journey is beginning!
- Immersive audio/visual displays featuring anime music and iconic sceneries.
- Personal memorabilia: tools, books, drafts, and meaningful objects actually used by Matsumoto-sensei.
- Professional photo service: Get your photo taken in front of the train, with an exclusive event photo folder available.
- Special “Cosplay Days” (every date with a ‘9’): dress as your favorite Matsumoto character for discounts and perks!
Venue Access
- By subway:
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line: Direct access from Roppongi Station Exit 1C.
- Toei Oedo Line: 4 min walk from Roppongi Station Exit 3 or Azabu-juban Station Exit 7.
- Tokyo Metro Nanboku Line: 7 min walk from Azabu-juban Station Exit 4.
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line: 8 min walk from Nogizaka Station Exit 5.
- By car: Paid parking available in Roppongi Hills.
- From airport: Limousine bus or train from Haneda/Narita is recommended.
Tickets & Exclusive Goods
- Advance online purchase recommended. Date/time-specific tickets available via Asoview and other e-ticket sites.
- Limited-edition and event-only merchandise available, with some items selling out early—check official site/SNS for latest info.
- On “Cosplay Days” (dates with a ‘9’), cosplayers enjoy discounts and exclusive photo services.
- Special tickets may include goods (e.g., exclusive file folders or novelty items).
Food & Café Recommendations
- On-site restaurant THE SUN & THE MOON (52F) serves themed menu items exclusively for the exhibition.
- “Tetsuro’s Steak” (beef steak, with drink): A real-life version of a famous dish from the manga—comes with an original coaster!
- Collaboration drinks: e.g., "Tears Planet Cocktail" and more, available only during the event.
- Restaurant hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (last order); call ahead for availability if possible.
Hotels & Lodging
- Many options for overseas travelers: luxury hotels adjacent in Roppongi Hills, mid-range business hotels, or budget capsule hotels nearby.
- Examples: Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Rembrandt Style Tokyo Akasaka.
- Rooms fill quickly—reserve in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Travel Tips & Tourism Options
- Venue is easily reached via public transport—subway is the best option for most visitors.
- Combine the exhibition with visits to Asakusa, Odaiba, Miraikan (the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation), or other popular Tokyo sites.
- If using luggage, utilize station lockers—large bags are not allowed inside the venue.
Money-saving Info & Exclusive Benefits
- “Cosplay Days” (every date with ‘9’, e.g., 9th, 19th, 29th of each month) offer discounts and sometimes novelty gifts.
- Professional photo services and limited-edition food or drinks include collectible items.
- For up-to-date drink/food/collab event or goods availability, check the official website or SNS on your planned visit day.
- Official souvenirs and event merchandise make ideal gifts or collector’s items.
Etiquette & Important Notices
- Do not bring large suitcases or carts inside—use lockers at Roppongi Hills or at nearby stations.
- No photography in certain areas—follow staff and signage instructions at all times.
- No use of power outlets, large stilts, props, or fire of any kind inside the venue.
- Cosplay dressing must be done in advance—do not change in venue restrooms or on-site.
- No unsolicited photography of other guests, and refrain from causing inconvenience to fellow visitors.
- If you need language support, use the information desk or translation apps on your smartphone.
- Accessible tickets and services are available—contact the organizers in advance for special needs.
Final Tip: Enjoy the Creative Universe!
This exhibition is a deep dive into the creative life of Leiji Matsumoto—exploring not just the story of Galaxy Express 999 but the entire spectrum of his worldbuilding and personal philosophy. Arriving early for tickets and goods, planning your lodging, and reading the latest news on the official site will maximize your enjoyment.
Welcome to Japan, and enjoy your journey through Leiji Matsumoto’s Galaxy!