This exhibition features works by the sci-fi cartoonist Fukujiro Yokoi, commemorating 60 years since his death. In December of 2007, a book was released documenting his works and its power of how it influenced the famous Osamu Tezuka. The exhibition will feature his works accompanied by additional background explanations. *Exhibiting at 2F Gallery 1 Lecture: February 2nd (Sat) 13:00-14:30 *For more information, visit URL below (Japanese). *at 3F Research Room 1 [Image: Fukujiro Yokoi "Adventurous Tarzan" (Kobun Publishing)]

The exhibition features 100 participants, each one of them will present a 30-second production using a sound box. *Exhibiting at KAVC gallery

The exhibition features rooftop tiles from the middle ages, swords from the Kamakura period, paintings and textiles from the Edo period, and coins from ancient China. Art Talk 1: April 26th (Sat) 14:00- Art Talk 2: May 16th (Sat) 14:00-

*Exhibiting at 8F Exhibition Room

Early modern folk painting masterpieces and the Hikone folding screens will be on public display.

In Japan, there are more than 1200 kinds of spiders, and in the world, that number exceeds 40,000. The most interesting characteristic of a spider is that depending on the situation, it spins different strings from its bottom. The spiderwebs created are varied in design and shape, ranging from circles, fan-shapes, hammock-shapes and domes. This exhibition introduces the geometric designs that have similar qualities as lace, which have been created by the small artist.

On its 6th edition, the exhibition features works from 72 artists of various media and styles.

This exhibition features artworks from the Heian period that have been selected from the museum collection.

The exhibition features swords and related accessories from the museum collection. The swords will be displayed in sets of "koshirae," all of which are noted for its intricate decorations created by artisans. [Image: Katsuyoshi Shoami "Sword Set with Butterfly Motif and Lacquered Blade" 37.7cm length, photography by Sumiharu Tawara]

Since its foundation, the Kitano-Tenmangu has acquired many treasures donated by religious imperial family members, samurai and wealthy merchants. Since the shrine is noted for its power of bringing good fortune, the wealthy faithful donated their art scrolls. Hence, the museum currently has an expansive collection of highly valued scrolls. In addition, there is the sword that was called "the devil's sword" by the Meiji emperor, swords donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and other swords with a significant historical background on display. Other works on display include arts and crafts, screens and tea ceremony equipment. Some items have been registered as cultural heritage items by the Japanese government.

The Kozan Temple located in Tanabe city is a temple that particularly supports the Shingon sect. The temple has been an avid collector of Buddhist art, and the exhibition features the most notable pieces from the collection. Art Talk: April 27th (Sun), May 2nd (Fri), 9th (Fri), 11th (Sun), 16th (Fri), 23rd (Fri), 25th (Sun), 30th (Fri) *For more information please visit the URL below. [Image: "Kobo Daishizo" (late Kamakura period) wood, height 79.3cm]

Horses have been an important partner to humans throughout history. In fact, horse-power was crucial in establishing civilization. The exhibition specifically focuses on the mythical Pegasus, which is often a symbol of beauty, power, and strength. The works on display include artifacts and art works from the Greek and Roman Empires, China, Japan, and western Asia. *Exhibiting at East/West New annex [Image: "Silver of Korinthos" courtesy of Equine Museum of Japan]

Studio Frog, of Tottori Prefecture, make figurines, diorama, accessories and straps with the motif of frogs, as well as other reptiles, amphibians and so forth. This exhibition will feature an installation focusing on the cute, little creatures that inhabit woodlands and the sea.

*For more information please visit the URL below.

This exhibition features rugs from the "Orient," focusing mostly on the dye techniques. *Exhibiting at the New Wing [Image: "Turkish (Anadol) Rug"]

Since the Heian period "The Tale of Genji" has continued to be read for a thousand years, truly deserving the label of timeless classic. This special exhibition will introduce the places in Mie with a connection to the work. Emaki (illustrated scrolls), Byobu (folding screens) and many folios will be on display. Art Talk: May 25th (Sun) 13:30-15:00 Exhibition Explanation: May 25th (Sun) 11:30-12:00 Exhibition Explanation: June 7th (Sat) 16:00-16:30

In recent years, the technology in projecting images has advanced greatly. The exhibition features works by 14 artists from Japan, China, and other countries that utilize this technology in their art.

There are approximately 200 types of Noh masks. Each mask has special characteristics that define whether it is a man, woman, devil, or an elderly figure. The exhibition features various Noh masks and other equipment that are used in the art. [Image: "Fushikizo" (c) Sen-Oku Hakuko Kan]

This year marks one thousand years since Murasaki Shikibu (d. 1014?) wrote her celebrated work, "The Tale of Genji". Recognized by the then Minister of the Left Fujiwara no Michinaga (966-1027) for her literary talent, Lady Murasaki gained entrance to Court by serving Michinaga's daughter Shoshi (988-1074), who later became the influential consort of Emperor Ichijo (r. 986-1011). Murasaki's insider observations of Ichijo's Court are said to have been the basis for "The Tale of Genji". This feature exhibition presents archaeological artifacts from the Heian period (794-1185) to introduce the age in which Lady Murasaki lived. Highlights of this exhibit include a gilt bronze sutra container and a forged bronze sutra case, both dating to around Murasaki's time. The sutra container is renowned as a dedicatory offering to the Buddhist deity Zao Gongen from Michinaga, who had it buried on Mount Kinpu in Nara Prefecture during his pilgrimage to this sacred site in 1007. Inscribed on this container are the wishes of this powerful minister who later became Regent and who has been suggested to be the model for Murasaki's main character, Genji. The sutra case was dedicated in 1031 to the Nyoho-do Hall in Yokawa Valley on Mount Hiei by the Cloistered Empress Jotomon'in, who Murasaki had earlier served when she was known as Shoshi. This bronze case (now owned by Enryaku-ji Temple), decorated with auspicious Buddhist floral motif, was excavated in the Taisho period (1912-1926) and later designated as a National Treasure. Also on exhibit is a Chinese Yuezhou celadon ewer, which was excavated in Kohata in southern Kyoto - an area is said to be the gravesite of the Fujiwara clan. Such archaeological finds suggest that mid-Heian period courtiers possessed luxury imports from the continent. Lady Murasaki may also have seen such refined works of celadon. Decorative tiles excavated from the former site of Hossho-ji, the historic temple built by Michinaga, and objects buried in sutra mounds in the Kyoto area also offer glimpses of the world in which Murasaki lived. *Exhibiting at the Collections Hall Gallery 2 [Image: Green-glazed Sutra Container courtesy of Kyoto National Museum]

To mark 150 years of Franco-Japanese relations the Kobe City Museum is holding the "Louvre Museum Exhibition, the Beauty of the French Court". At the French royal court of the 18th century saw the flowering of the most refined culture in history. Marquis Pompadour's consort, a favorite of Louis XV, and Louis XVI's queen Marie Antoinette: These female lovers of beauty gave color to the court and to the salon, developing the styles of Rococo and Neoclassicism. The accessories and furnishings specially ordered by the royalty and nobility made unsparing use of expensive material and techniques, pushing French crafts to their zenith. Much of the possessions of the French court were lost during the French Revolution, but at the Arts and Crafts Department of the Louvre there remains a precious collection that evaded the turmoil of the revolutionary period. This exhibition will display around 140 paintings and objects handpicked from that collection, introducing the elegance and beauty of the court. From the fine gold and silver crafts liked by the Marquess Pompadour to the writing desks favored by Marie Antoinette, and portable travel items, many of the displays are being shown in Japan for the first time. Art Talk: April 26th (Sat) 14:00-15:30 Art Talk: May 24th (Sat) 14:00-15:30 Children's Workshop: May 5th (Mon) 10:00- & 13:00- School Student Talks: May 17th (Sat), May 31st (Sat) & June 14th (Sat) 14:00-16:00 [Image: "Wall Clock With Diana Statues Decorative Frame" (1745-1750) Bronze, Gilt, Enamel ©2007 Musée du Louvre／Martine Beck-Coppola]

Stretching all around the Chikatsu-Asuka Museum for 1.5km there are recognized to be some 260 graves in 23 groupings. These were built in the late burial mounds period (around the sixth century) and are known as the Ichisuka Tumuli. Ichisuka Tumuli's distinctive feature is their numerous burial goods. There are many crowns, shoes, ear jewelry, rings and other gold and silver products, but not much weaponry. In particular many of the artifacts are thought to have been brought over from the Korean peninsular. From twenty of the mounds rice cooking equipment and small earthenware have been uncovered which reveal links with the continental immigrants. At the museum a range of these unusual finds will be on display which will allow us to think about Chikatsu-Asuka and its tombs. [Image: Gold Shoes (reproduction)]

*Exhibiting at Zone 1

This exhibition features the changes in Japanese people's lifestyle that were brought by the influences of foreign countries. *Exhibiting at 1F Exhibition Room 3

*Exhibiting at Zone 3

This exhibition traces from the origin of humans to the establishment of ancient society by focusing on the influence of China and Korea, through rice farming, and usage of metal tools. Sakuragaoka bell-shaped bronze vessels (national treasure) and other items from tumulus in Kobe city are exhibited. *Exhibiting at 2F Exhibition Room 4, 5

During the Edo period (when Japan had an isolationist policy), Japan did in fact have contact with foreign countries. This exhibition will display telescopes, glass works, clocks and other items that have adopted foreign influences. *Exhibiting at 1F Exhibition Room 1 [Image: "Japanese Telescopes from the 18th Century and After"]

This exhibition explores how culture from the Chinese continent was adapted through local offices and the proliferation of Buddhism. In addition, Hyogo bay played an important role in water transportation with China and Korea. *Exhibiting at 2F Exhibition Room 5

*Exhibiting at Zone 2

The crowded, bustling atmosphere of the street corners of Shinsaibashi and Dotombori in the late Taisho and early Showa periods are realistically reproduced at this exhibition. *Exhibiting on the 7th floor [Image: "Modern Girl"]

A life-sized archaeological excavation replica awaits discovery and investigation. By using various authentic archaeological tools and reference materials, visitors can participate in the workshops to complete excavation projects. *Exhibiting at 8F

This permanent exhibition features a selection of the Meiji period's most sophisticated works when makie lacquerware, cloisonne, metal work and kyo satsuma experienced the peak of artistic skills and values. Most of the works were created by the Emperors' artists, and have been found in other countries. Works on display are rearranged on a continuous basis to allow visitors to see different works throughout the year.

The exhibition features the world of when Nobunaga Oda fought at Hongan-ji Temple in Osaka. In addition to a 1/20th scale miniature town model, the Bunraku puppet "Naniwaya" is exhibited in the Edo period zone. *Exhibiting at 9F [Image: "Naniwaya"]

The exhibition displays an assortment of portfolios by various artists. They will be scattered across the room on shelves and on the walls. Visitors are welcomed to sit on a chair and look through them.

50 artists will participate in this group exhibition on the theme of "water". *Exhibiting at Room 3

This is an exhibition of artistic jewelry and objects made of silver, copper and brass. Opening Party: May 18th (Sun) 15:00-19:00

Last year, the Kyoto National Museum received a generous gift of twelve Chinese paintings from the Japanese novelist Sawada Fujiko (b.1946). One of the most noteworthy works among this donation is "Landscape with Birds and Flowers" by the Ming-dynasty painter Chen Zhen, of Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, dated to 1640. Executed on silk, this large painting (H. 177.0 cm, W. 91.5 cm) captures a tall mountain, covered lightly with snow, soaring high above an enchanting valley. Cascading from the mountain precipice to the viewer's left is a waterfall flowing down to the ravine into a meandering stream. Two trees stand prominently at the foot of the mountain, surrounded by bamboo, broad-leafed shrubs, and blossoming plum and camellia trees. One interesting stylistic feature is the unusual contrast between the colorful birds the mountain magpies, eagles, and green pheasants painted in striking hues and realistic detail in the foreground, and the almost surreal cliff, depicted in ink and light colors, towering over the valley in the background. From the Ming dynasty onwards, paintings of landscapes and birds and flowers begin to develop into separate genres. This painting, which would ordinarily represent a winter scene in a set of four hanging scrolls depicting landscapes of the four seasons, is a rare example that successfully reintegrates these two themes. Incidentally, in a letter by the late Edo-period literati painter Okada Hanko (1782-1846), affixed to this painting, Hanko referred to the work as "Landscape Painting with Birds and Flowers." He also noted that it was the prized possession of the 115th Abbot of the Rinzai Zen temple Shokoku-ji in Kyoto, Imyo Shukei (1731-1808), who praised it as an unparalleled masterpiece. *Exhibiting at the Collections Hall Galleries 13, 14 & 17 [Image: Chen Zhen "Landscape with Birds and Flowers" courtesy of Kyoto National Museum]