What this is
This exhibition at the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo celebrates Takehisa Yumeji (1884–1934), one of Japan's most beloved artists of the Taishō era, renowned for his distinctive bijin-ga — evocative portraits of beautiful women that defined the romantic mood of early 20th-century Japan. Yumeji's work was groundbreaking in its fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with Art Nouveau influences from the West, placing him at a unique crossroads of cultural exchange. His creative output extended far beyond painting to encompass book design, poetry, illustration, and commercial graphics, making him a remarkably modern figure and arguably Japan's first true multimedia artist. The exhibition traces his enduring influence on Japanese visual culture and examines how his sensibility shaped the aesthetic identity of an entire generation. For anyone interested in the Taishō period — a brief but culturally rich era of liberalism and artistic experimentation — this show offers an authoritative and beautifully curated window into that world.
Who should go
Art lovers with an interest in early modern Japanese art, the Taishō period, or the history of Japanese design will find this exhibition deeply rewarding. It also appeals strongly to those drawn to Art Nouveau, bijin-ga, and the broader story of how Japan absorbed and transformed Western modernism in the early 20th century. Design history enthusiasts, students of Japanese cultural history, and visitors who enjoyed the Yumeji Art Museum in Okayama will feel especially at home here. The atmosphere at MOMAT is typically calm and scholarly, making it ideal for unhurried, contemplative viewing. Visiting on a weekday morning will give you the most peaceful experience with the works.
Good to know
Tickets for major MOMAT exhibitions can be purchased at the museum box office on the day, or in advance via the museum's official website, eplus.jp, or Lawson Ticket — foreign credit cards are generally accepted online and at the venue. The museum is located in Kitanomaru Park, a pleasant green space adjacent to the Imperial Palace grounds, so arriving early allows for a relaxing walk before the doors open. MOMAT is a mid-sized national institution with a calm, well-lit interior suited to detailed viewing; expect a scholarly rather than blockbuster atmosphere. The museum café on the ground floor is a good spot for a break, and the gift shop typically stocks exhibition catalogues and Yumeji-themed goods worth browsing. Allow at least 90 minutes for the special exhibition alone, plus additional time if you plan to visit the permanent collection.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.