2025/08/17

Tezuka Osamu "Saving Our Fragile Earth" Special Exhibition Guide (2025) — For Fans Visiting Japan

The special exhibition “Saving Our Fragile Earth(Save the Glass Earth” by legendary manga artist Tezuka Osamu takes place at the holy land for manga lovers, the Tokiwaso Manga Museum in Toshima City, Tokyo. This guide covers essential information in English, from event dates and venue details, exhibition highlights, access, local food and accommodations, rules, and handy tips for overseas visitors.

Event Details

  • Date: August 2, 2025 (Sat) to November 24, 2025 (Mon, public holiday)
    *Closed on Mondays (except public holidays, then closed on next weekday)
  • Time: 10:00–18:00 (last entry at 17:30)
  • Venue: Tokiwaso Manga Museum, 3-9-22 Minaminagasaki, Toshima City, Tokyo (inside Minaminagasaki Hanasaki Park)
  • Admission Fee: Adults: ¥500, Elementary/Junior High: ¥100, Kids under school age & disabled visitors (with one assistant): Free
  • Reservation: Advance booking recommended via the official website (reservation priority)

Exhibition Highlights & Contents

  • Theme: The exhibition recreates Tezuka Osamu’s masterpiece essay "Save the Glass Earth", conveying the preciousness of life and the magnificence of our natural world.
  • Approx. 110 original manuscripts on display, including iconic works like “Jungle Emperor Leo” and “Astro Boy”, as well as rare shorts and pre-debut pieces.
  • Exclusive screening of rare lectures given by Tezuka Osamu himself.
  • Visitor Special: Receive one of four exclusive Tezuka character badges (randomly given, while supplies last).

Access to the Venue

  • Nearest Stations:
    - Toei Oedo Line “Ochiai-Minaminagasaki Sta.” (A2 Exit, 5 min walk)
    - Seibu Ikebukuro Line “Higashi-Nagasaki Sta.” (South Exit, 10 min walk)
    - Seibu Ikebukuro Line “Shiinamachi Sta.” (South Exit, 10 min walk)
  • From Ikebukuro Station: Take JR, subway, or Seibu line to reach the nearby stations, then walk to the museum.
  • No parking (except for large buses and disabled visitors). Please use public transportation.
  • Some English signs available, but using a translation app is advised for visitors who do not speak Japanese.

Food Recommendations Near the Museum

  • Matsuba: Legendary ramen shop visited by Tezuka and the original Tokiwaso manga artists—sample classic flavors and manga-inspired local vibes.
  • Suzukiya Soba & Cafe Libeccio: Retro Japanese set meals, croquette sandwiches, and dishes enjoyed by manga creators.
  • Sagara Teishoku: Featured in "Kodoku no Gourmet", famous local set menu—hearty portions, great to share.
  • Oomaru Tonkatsu: Casual diner serving delicious fried dishes—a warm, neighborly experience.

Accommodation Options

  • Hotels conveniently accessible from Ikebukuro and Mejiro stations:
    ・Richmond Hotel Tokyo Mejiro
    ・JR-East Hotel Mets Mejiro
    ・ASTA HOTEL
    ・Sheena & Ippei Hostel
  • Staying in Ikebukuro or Mejiro areas offers optimal access for sightseeing, dining, and shopping after the exhibition.
  • Wide variety of hotel types for solo travelers and groups, including long-stay and budget-friendly choices.

Rules & Etiquette: Please Be Mindful

  • The museum is inside a residential area and park—no littering or smoking on streets.
  • Photography is generally allowed, except for restricted objects; always follow staff instructions.
  • No outside food or drinks; pets are not allowed (except assistance dogs).
  • May experience waiting during crowded hours—please be considerate, quiet, and share space.
  • If you require information in English or another language, advance email inquiries are possible.
  • During local events or festivals, be extra considerate of residents and local customs.

Insider Tips & What You Can Gain

  • Book early to secure your preferred visiting slot—priority admission for online reservations.
  • Limited edition goods (character badges, exclusive items) are best obtained early in the day or during quieter hours.
  • Ikebukuro and Tokiwaso Street feature seasonal menus and manga-related events—check SNS or official news for latest updates.
  • Combine your trip with local sightseeing: Minaminagasaki Hanasaki Park and Tokiwaso Street rest area—the ultimate manga pilgrimage.
  • Japanese cultural experiences and English-speaking guides are available (advance booking required).

This special exhibition offers a rare chance to deeply experience Tezuka Osamu’s thought and work, cherished across the world. It is a must-visit not only for manga fans but anyone interested in anime, Japanese pop culture, or environmental messages. Let "Save the Glass Earth" inspire you to cherish our fragile planet!

2025/08/04

Galaxy Express 999 50th Anniversary: Leiji Matsumoto Exhibition Guide

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!

2025/07/29

KYO-MAF2025 (Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair 2025): The Ultimate Guide for Overseas Anime & Manga Fans

Event Overview: Dates, Times, and Venues

KYO-MAF2025 is western Japan’s largest manga, anime, and gaming event, taking place this year on September 20th (Sat) and 21st (Sun), 2025 in Kyoto. The main venues are Miyakomesse (Kyoto International Exhibition Hall) and ROHM Theatre Kyoto, with an additional satellite venue at the Kyoto International Manga Museum.

  • Main Event Hours: 9:00am–5:00pm (until 4:00pm on the 21st). Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
  • Manga Museum Hours: 10:00am–7:00pm

Main Exhibitions, Featured Titles, and Booth Highlights

Expect a world-class selection of anime, manga, and games at KYO-MAF2025! Here are some highlights:

  • Featured Works:
    • Blue Exorcist
    • Ao no Hako(Blue Box)
    • The Eccentric Family
    • Angel Beats!
    • Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
    • Bocchi the Rock!
    • Tokyo Revengers
    • The Quintessential Quintuplets
    • Brand-new popular games such as “Brown Dust 2”
    • Hands-on Live2D character and VTuber experiences by up-and-coming creators
  • Exclusive goods, first-look screenings of new titles, stage shows, and interactive mini-games are also planned.

Check the official website for updates and the full list of exhibitors.

Cosplay Area & How to Participate

Cosplay is a major part of KYO-MAF! With official organization by "acosta!", designated cosplay zones and photo spots are set up both inside and outside Miyakomesse.

  • Cosplay Ticket: Required for all those wishing to cosplay. Purchase in advance online.
  • Changing Rooms & Luggage: Only accessible with a Cosplay Ticket. Arriving already in costume from your hotel or the street is prohibited.
  • Events: Cosplay contests and stage performances (entry required, some paid, certain in-venue benefits available).
  • Rules: Costumes must respect copyright, avoid excessive revealing, and follow restrictions on prop and weapon-like items. Always use designated changing areas.

Tickets: Types, Prices, and How to Get Them

Type Price (JPY) Description / Benefits
KYO-MAF “Okoshiyasu” Ticket 15,000 2-day entry + priority access + admission to all stage events + exclusive goods
KYO-MAF Fast Pass 2,300 Priority entry (regular entry ticket required, sold separately)
Advance Admission Ticket (1-day) 1,800 Entry for one day, eligible for stage lottery up to the 20th
Combined Advance Ticket 2,700 Includes both Miyakomesse and Manga Museum entry
Same-day Ticket 2,300 Limited availability at the venue (can sell out!)
  • Children up to elementary school (approx. 12 years) may enter free with a guardian.
  • Purchase tickets via the official ticket website and major ticketing outlets such as Lawson, L-Tike, and Seven Ticket. Limited on-site sales (beware of sellouts!).
  • “Okoshiyasu” Ticket is advance lottery and strictly limited (120 available; on sale from July 17).
  • Fast Pass: Advance lottery 8/21-9/3; general sales 9/11-19.
  • Payment accepted by credit card, carrier billing, and e-money.

Access & Transportation

Main Venue: Miyakomesse

9-1 Seishoji-cho, Okazaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8343, Japan
  • From Kyoto Station:
    • Subway Karasuma Line: Get off at “Karasuma Oike,” transfer to Tozai Line, get off at “Higashiyama.” 8 min walk to venue.
    • Kyoto City Bus: Get off at “Okazaki Park/Bijutsukan Heian Jingu-mae.” Right by the venue.
    • Taxi: Around 20 minutes from Kyoto Station.
    • No private parking available (public transport strongly recommended).
  • ROHM Theatre Kyoto: Next to Miyakomesse.

Kyoto International Manga Museum

  • 2 min walk from Subway “Karasuma Oike” Station.
  • Easy transfers between venues by subway or city bus.

Accommodation: Where to Stay

  • Book early! Hotels fill up quickly during event periods.
  • Staying in the city center (Okazaki, Higashiyama, Kawaramachi areas) offers best access to venues.
  • Plenty of capsule hotels, hostels, and guesthouses welcome international travelers.
  • Some official event hotel packages may be available—check the official website for details.
  • Confirm with your accommodations about the availability of changing rooms and luggage storage if cosplaying.

Dining & Local Food

  • Onsite food area, cafes, and snack stands (limited-edition anime/manga collaboration items available).
  • Outside the venues, enjoy a wide variety of Japanese cuisine, cafes, ramen, sweets, and famous restaurants—particularly around Heian Shrine.
  • Food carry-in rules depend on each venue (generally allowed; please take your trash with you).
  • Multilingual menus, vegan/vegetarian, and allergy-friendly options available at some locations.

Important Rules, Manners, and Precautions

  • Check latest official announcements for re-entry, baggage checks, or safety protocols in effect.
  • Cosplayers must use onsite changing rooms—changing on public transport or hotel is not permitted.
  • Always ask permission before photographing or posting images of other attendees, especially cosplayers.
  • Follow all directions for crowd control, lineup, and one-way flows during busy times.
  • Reselling tickets or goods, causing disruptions, or aggressive scouting is strictly prohibited.
  • Respect general tourists and local residents, as the area hosts many other visitors.
  • Maintain peace and good manners at all venues, surrounding facilities, and hotels.
  • Multilingual staff and overseas guest support desks are available—check venue maps and pamphlets for emergency info and help points.

Travel Tips for Overseas Anime & Manga Fans

  • Take advantage of official multilingual guides, pamphlets, and social media for updates and navigation help.
  • Lottery entry for limited edition merchandise and stage events is highly recommended—apply early!
  • Kyoto’s weather in September varies: prepare for both heat and humidity; hydrate frequently and adjust clothing as needed.
  • Purchase an IC card (like Suica, ICOCA) in advance for easy travel on local buses and subways—machines offer English menus.
  • Onsite volunteers and staff are especially welcoming to guests from around the world.
  • Plan a flexible itinerary so you can enjoy both the event and world-famous Kyoto sightseeing attractions.

Conclusion

KYO-MAF2025 offers a dreamlike two days at the frontier of Japanese manga and anime culture. It’s a priceless chance for fans from all over the world to meet, discover new favorites, enjoy the latest tech, and experience Kyoto’s unique blend of tradition and creativity. Prepare well, and have an unforgettable manga & anime journey in Kyoto!

2025/07/28

HELLSING and Drifters / The Ultimate Guide to the Kouta Hirano Great Exposition: For Overseas Fans

Renowned manga artist Kouta Hirano is celebrated worldwide for works like HELLSING and Drifters. The Kouta Hirano Great Exposition is a comprehensive exhibition celebrating his art, featuring original art displays, hands-on experiences, and exclusive event goods—a must for any fan! Here, this guide covers everything overseas visitors need to know, from tickets and access to must-see highlights and travel tips.

1. Event Overview: Dates, Venue, and Highlights

  • Dates (Nagoya): September 6 (Sat) – October 5 (Sun), 2025
  • Hours: 10:00am–5:00pm (last admission 4:30pm)
  • Venue: Telepia Hall, Higashi Sakura 1-14-25, Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture
  • Main Features:
    • Over 200 original hand-drawn pages, mainly from HELLSING and Drifters
    • Dioramas recreating iconic scenes, visual and audio installations
    • Photo spots and an on-site merchandise store
  • Note: This traveling exhibit has also visited Tokyo and Osaka. Currently, Nagoya is the most recent venue.

2. Ticket Information

  • Tickets: Advance and same-day tickets available
  • Prices:
    • General Admission: 2,100 JPY (advance) / 2,300 JPY (same day)
    • Special Ticket A (with “HELLSING – Anderson’s Bayonet” letter opener): 5,400 JPY (advance), 5,600 JPY (same day)
    • Special Ticket B (with “Drifters – Toyohisa’s Sword” letter opener): 5,400 JPY (advance), 5,600 JPY (same day)
  • Children under school age: Free with guardian
  • Limited edition tickets are while supplies last
  • Where to Buy: Lawson Ticket, event official website (English available)
  • Entry might require a time slot or waiting ticket during busy hours

3. Gifts and Novelties

  • Exclusive goods for special ticket holders
  • Limited postcards or novelty gifts for purchases over 2,000 JPY in the shop (subject to availability)
  • Additional random gifts or limited clear cards announced during event

4. Exhibition Highlights

  • Original Art: Over 200 pages on display, showing detailed panel layouts, corrections, and the force of Hirano’s lines
  • Dioramas: Large models recreating famed battles and costumes for close-up viewing
  • Video/Audio Installations: Iconic Anime scenes and legendary lines, fully immersive
  • Photo Spots: Military uniforms and weapon recreations, immersive backdrops for memorable photos
  • Fan Interaction: Visitor boards, message corners
  • Audio Guide: 800 JPY (bring your own smartphone & earphones)

5. Event Goods & Exclusive Items

  • Art books
  • Acrylic stands (including new releases)
  • T-shirts (e.g. Alucard & Anderson battle motifs)
  • Keychains, pins, many others
  • Venue-exclusive postcards and clear file sets
  • Some items available online after the event
  • High-denomination bills may not be accepted at merch booths; carrying small change is recommended

6. Access & Transportation

  • Telepia Hall (Nagoya):
    • Nearest Stations: Sakae Station (Subway Higashiyama/Meijo Lines, 8 min walk); Sakaemachi Station (Meitetsu Seto Line, 5 min)
    • From Chubu Centrair International Airport: Meitetsu train to Sakae Station, about 40 minutes
    • From Nagoya Station: Subway, about 5 minutes to Sakae
    • Parking: Use nearby coin parking lots
  • Ikebukuro Sunshine City (past Tokyo leg):
    • Ikebukuro Station: 8 min walk; Higashi Ikebukuro Station: 3 min walk

7. Accommodation

  • Many business and city hotels near the venue
  • Sakae/Nagoya station area: 6,000–20,000 JPY per night
  • Recommended for overseas travelers: Chain hotels (APA, Richmond, Toyoko Inn, etc.)—usually with English-speaking staff
  • Book early, especially during event dates
  • International booking sites (Booking.com, Agoda) supported

8. Food & Restaurant Info

  • Wide range of Japanese, western and Asian restaurants around the venue
  • Telepia Hall is adjacent to Hisaya Odori Park, home to many cafes and restaurants
  • Vegetarian/Vegan options available—check Google Maps for up-to-date info
  • Convenience stores (FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, Lawson) within walking distance
  • For souvenirs: department store food floors like Apita and Matsuzakaya

9. Event Rules & Notes

  • Photography prohibited in most exhibit areas (except designated photo spots)
  • No loud behavior or outside food/drinks (drink only in designated areas)
  • Timed entry or numbered tickets may be distributed during crowded times
  • Store large luggage in paid coin lockers or a cloakroom
  • Children must be accompanied by a guardian
  • Staff primarily speak Japanese; some English-speaking staff available (easily identified by badges)

10. About Chip's

  • "Chip's" refers to digital points/coupons or a series of collectible acrylic badges used at the event and related activities
  • These may be used for limited-edition goods, prize lotteries, or interactive booth experiences
  • Details and how to participate: check the official website or in-person information

11. Additional Advice for Overseas Visitors

  • Latest news: official website & X/Twitter (@hiranokohtaexpo) available, with foreign language translation buttons
  • To avoid crowds:
    • Come on weekday mornings, right at opening
    • On weekends/holidays, purchase date/time-specified tickets in advance
  • Payment methods: cash, credit cards, and some electronic payment options accepted
  • Easy to combine with local sightseeing: Nagoya Castle, Oasis 21, Osu Kannon, and more

12. Conclusion: Why You Should Go

The Kouta Hirano Great Exposition is an immersive experience for original fans as well as those discovering HELLSING or Drifters for the first time. Dive deep into the worlds and artistry of Kouta Hirano through stunning displays and interactive content. Enjoy a wide array of exclusive commemorative goods, smooth logistics, and thoughtful Japanese hospitality—making for a truly unforgettable day!

Even if you don’t speak Japanese, the event's immersive visual experience and atmospheric installations will allow you to fully feel the essence and energy of Hirano’s iconic works. The infrastructure is welcoming, even for first-time visitors to Japan. Don’t miss the chance to add this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition to your travel itinerary!

For latest details and updates, check the official X (@hiranokohtaexpo) or the official website before your visit.

2025/07/25

EVANGELION 30th Anniversary Exhibition: The Complete Guide for International Travelers

In 2025, the timeless masterpiece "Evangelion," an indispensable part of Japanese pop culture, will reach a momentous 30th-anniversary milestone since its original TV broadcast. To celebrate this historic year, the long-awaited, large-scale special exhibition, "ALL OF EVANGELION," has been announced for the delight of fans.

This is no mere retrospective. It is a festival-like space where you can experience "all of Evangelion," as a vast collection of precious, never-before-seen production materials are brought together to unravel the series' creative journey on an unprecedented scale and in profound depth.

This article will provide a detailed and easy-to-understand guide to the charms of the "ALL OF EVANGELION" exhibition for international fans who are planning a trip to, or are currently in, Japan.


Exhibition Overview: When and Where?

First, let's cover the basic information for this exhibition.

  • Exhibition Name: 30th Anniversary Exhibition "ALL OF EVANGELION"
  • Dates: Friday, November 14, 2025 – Monday, January 12, 2026 (National Holiday)
  • Venue: Tokyo City View (Roppongi Hills Mori Tower 52F)
  • Organizer: Tokyo City View
  • Planning: The Asahi Shimbun, Movic Promote Service, Movic
  • Special Cooperation: Khara, Inc., Anime Tokusatsu Archive Organisation (ATAC), GroundWorks:
  • Official Websites:

【Advice for International Visitors】
Further details such as ticket prices, opening hours, and merchandise information will be announced on the official websites and social media channels. When planning your trip to Japan, we recommend checking these official sources regularly. For popular exhibitions like this, advance ticket booking is often required.


Exhibition Concept: A "Festival" for the Eyes, Ears, and Mind

The concept of this exhibition is a "festival" to be experienced with your eyes, ears, and mind. This means it aims to be an experience where visitors can deeply immerse themselves in the world of Evangelion using all their senses, rather than just viewing the materials.

From its broadcast debut in 1995, which sparked a social phenomenon, through the "Rebuild of Evangelion" movie series that began in 2007, to the final installment, "Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time" in 2021, Evangelion has constantly evolved. Its 30-year history has been a continuous "festival" shared with its fans. This exhibition, as the culmination of it all, will be a place where each visitor can rediscover and celebrate the fundamental appeal of the work.


The Core of the Exhibition: What Can You See?

True to its name, "ALL OF EVANGELION" will feature an unprecedentedly large-scale display of extremely valuable production materials that form the core of the work, from the original TV series to the "Rebuild of Evangelion" films.

1. Production Materials from the "Neon Genesis Evangelion" TV Series: The Soul of the Analog Era

In the 1990s, before the widespread digitalization of animation production, the mainstream method was analog, where each frame was drawn and painted by hand. This exhibition will feature a collective display of precious materials from this era. This is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the origins of Evangelion.

  • Cel-ga (Animation Cels):
    While it may be an unfamiliar term for some, "cel-ga" refers to the technique of drawing characters on transparent sheets (cels) and layering them over background paintings to create animation. In today's world of digital production, these cels themselves are extremely rare. This exhibition will display a multitude of vibrant cels used in the original TV series. The thrill of seeing those famous scenes, once viewed only on a screen, as tangible, hand-drawn objects right before your eyes is an irreplaceable experience. The tormented expression of Shinji Ikari, the mysterious smile of Rei Ayanami, the fierce determination of Asuka Langley Soryu—all will feel vividly real, bearing the raw traces of the animators' brushstrokes.
  • Genga (Key Animation Drawings) & Settei (Model Sheets):
    "Genga" are the key frames that define an animation's movement and are essentially the "blueprints" that determine the quality of character expressions and actions. "Settei" are the reference materials that detail the fine points of the world-building, such as character heights and outfits, the designs of Evangelion Unit-01 and other mecha, and the scenery of Tokyo-3. This exhibition will generously display a wealth of meticulously drawn genga and settei. By viewing these, you can get a glimpse into the creative process and the meticulous attention to detail that the creators poured into building that unique and complex world.

2. Digital Production Materials from the "Rebuild of Evangelion" Series: A Public First!

With the "Rebuild of Evangelion" series, which began in 2007, animation production techniques shifted significantly from analog to digital. One of the major highlights of this exhibition is that the digital production materials used for the "Rebuild" series will be displayed together for the first time to the public.

The production process of the digital-era "Evangelion," which has been shrouded in mystery until now, will finally be revealed. While the specific materials have yet to be announced, we can anticipate the following:

  • Digital Animation Data: Key animation and in-between frames drawn directly on devices like tablets.
  • 3DCG Model Data: Detailed 3D models of the Evangelions, Angels, and battleships. You may be able to view their structures and details from various angles.
  • VFX (Visual Effects) Production Process: A breakdown of how powerful scenes, like the deployment of an A.T. Field or the positron blast from Operation Yashima, were created, potentially showing layer structures and effect creation.

The fact that materials from "Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time," the record-breaking final film that grossed over 10.28 billion yen, will be shown for the first time is an unmissable point for fans. You will be able to see behind the scenes of that magnificent climax, brought to life through cutting-edge digital technology.


The Venue's Charm: Roppongi Hills & Tokyo City View

The venue for this exhibition, Tokyo City View, is an observation deck located on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks.

From the indoor observation corridor, situated 250 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama that includes Tokyo Tower, Skytree, the skyscrapers of Shinjuku, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The ability to enjoy this stunning view before or after appreciating the exhibition is one of its major attractions.

You can have the luxurious experience of reflecting on the world of the series while gazing out at a view of metropolitan Tokyo that is reminiscent of the fortress city "Tokyo-3" from the show. The night view is particularly spectacular; the sea of countless lights is a work of art in itself.

Roppongi Hills is a multi-purpose complex that also houses the Mori Art Museum, over 200 shops and restaurants, a cinema, and gardens, offering a full day of entertainment. It's a great idea to plan your visit to combine the exhibition with Tokyo's cutting-edge culture, dining, and shopping.


Q&A for International Visitors

Q. Can I enjoy the exhibition if I don't understand Japanese?
A. At present, it has not been announced whether the exhibit descriptions will have multilingual support. However, past large-scale exhibitions have often included English captions or provided audio guides. Furthermore, the appeal of Evangelion lies in its visual power, which transcends language. The delicate touch of the original drawings, the vivid colors of the cels, and the intricate designs of the model sheets can be deeply appreciated without understanding the language. We recommend checking the official website for the latest information.
Q. How can I buy tickets?
A. The method of ticket sales and pricing will be announced on the official website soon. Typically, tickets for exhibitions in Japan can be purchased through online ticketing sites (e.g., Lawson Ticket, Ticket Pia, e+) or at terminals in convenience stores. It is possible that an online site accessible to overseas buyers will be available. As popular exhibitions can sell out quickly, we recommend checking the release date and purchasing your tickets early.
Q. Is photography allowed?
A. In most Japanese exhibitions, photography is prohibited in most areas to protect copyrights, with the exception of designated photo spots. To preserve the precious original artwork and materials, please adhere to the rules. If there are areas where photography is permitted, please follow the instructions.
Q. Will there be exclusive merchandise for sale?
A. It is almost certain that exclusive, original merchandise will be sold at the exhibition. You can expect a wide variety of items, including an exhibition catalog (a book summarizing the exhibit's contents), T-shirts, clear files, keychains, and reproduction prints. The merchandise shop is expected to be very crowded, so it's a good idea to visit with plenty of time to spare.

Why is "Evangelion" So Special?

Finally, let's touch upon the significance of the "Evangelion" series, which is the reason this exhibition is garnering so much attention.

When "Neon Genesis Evangelion" first aired in 1995, it sent shockwaves not just through the anime community but throughout society as a whole, as a work that far transcended the conventional mecha anime genre.

The story follows young boys and girls who pilot giant, multi-purpose humanoid decisive weapons called Evangelions to fight mysterious enemies known as "Angels." However, the narrative's focus is not on the thrill of battle, but on the fragile, vulnerable inner lives of its characters, led by the protagonist Shinji Ikari, and the difficulty of communicating with others. With its complex storyline interwoven with philosophical, psychological, and religious motifs, its stylish visual expression, and the boom created by the character Rei Ayanami, its impact is immeasurable.

"Evangelion" is not just an anime; it is a "cultural phenomenon." Its influence is not confined to Japan but continues to inspire creators and fans all over the world.

This "ALL OF EVANGELION" exhibition can be described as the first-ever opportunity to experience, in the most raw and comprehensive way, the passion, skill, and anguish from which this legendary work was born.


Conclusion: Become a Witness to Legend

For long-time fans, the 30th Anniversary Exhibition "ALL OF EVANGELION" will be a pilgrimage to reaffirm their love for the series and make new discoveries. For a new generation of fans who came to know Evangelion through the "Rebuild" series, and for those about to delve into the work, it is the perfect chance to encounter its grand creative history and the source of its unfading charm.

If you plan to be in Tokyo between November 2025 and January 2026, why not visit this historic exhibition? Paired with the spectacular view of Tokyo, it is sure to add an unforgettable page to your "Evangelion experience."

Keep an eye on the official website and social media for further announcements as you plan your trip.

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