The Lucky Cat Traveling Through Time Exhibition at Hyakudan Kaidan
Mar 20 (Thu.) - Jun 15 (Sun.), 2025
*Closed on May 7(Wed.)(for changing exhibits)
With its exquisite poise and enigmatic expression, the cat has been a muse for many artists throughout the ages.
Enchanted by such feline mystique, works by artists both old and new will assemble at the Cultural Property "Hyakudan Kaidan."
The oldest recorded history of domesticated cats in Japan comes from the Heian period. Scenes featuring cats from “The Pillow Book” and “The Tale of Genji” come to life through three-dimensional art.
From the Edo period, we showcase a cat-themed Ukiyoe collection.
And from the Taisho/Meiji period, the rare collection of artist and cat product designer, Meroji Kawamura, presents a world of cats imbued with Taisho romanticism.
Continually captivating humans, enjoy the transcending charm of cats through the 7 rooms of "Hyakudan Kaidan."
[Ukiyoe Exhibition Schedule]
First half: March 20 (Thu.) – May 6 (Tue.)
Second half: May 8(Thu.) – June 15(Sun.)
*Image1: Yasumaro Ozawa
*Image2:Kuniyoshi Utagawa “Ryuko nekojyarashi (fashionable cat teaser)” / Edo period
*Image3: Meroji Kawamura “Enfukuneko” / circa 1933
Exhibition Highlights
The Lucky Cat Traveling Through Time
A collaboration of a cultural heritage and cats
*Image: Yasumaro Ozawa
*image from past exhibition
Showcasing valuable historical materials and works by Japan's leading cat artists
*Image: Kuniyoshi Utagawa “Ryuko Nekojyarashi (fashionable cat teaser)” / Edo period
*Displayed in the first half of the exhibition (March 20 – May 6)
· Admission tickets can be purchased in advance through the official online ticket website or at the venue on the day.
· Persons with disabilities are admitted at a preferential rate (50% off a same-day ticket) with the presentation of a disability certificate. (Price includes admission
for one accompanying carer. Please enquire at the ticket office on the day of your visit.)
· Contents of the exhibition are subject to change.
Requests to Visitors
· Movement between rooms within the facility is by stairs. Wheelchairs, mobility walkers, and strollers cannot be used.
· As the venue rooms have tatami floors, visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering.
· Visitors are welcome to take photographs of the exhibition, except for certain displays.
· Please note that photography of Ukiyoe is not permitted.
· Please refrain from the use of flashes, lights, tripods, and selfie sticks.
· Photography for commercial purposes is not permitted.
· Behavior that could threaten the safety of the exhibits, such as approaching the exhibits too closely with photographic equipment, is not permitted.
· Please be considerate of other visitors.
· Please do not bring large bags, umbrellas, etc. inside the exhibition venue. Bags may be left at the bellhop desk at the front entrance, and umbrellas may be placed in the umbrella stand.
· Please refrain from eating or drinking inside the exhibition venue. Visitors are also not permitted to bring hazardous items, odorous items, or raw foods into the venue.