Yoshitake Shinsuke Exhibition Maybe: Extra-Large Version Returns to Tokyo

Explore the Expanded World of Shinsuke Yoshitake with New Large-Scale Exhibits and Goods

The highly popular "Yoshitake Shinsuke Exhibition Maybe," an event that has already captivated approximately 700,000 visitors across Japan, is making a significant return to Tokyo. This iteration, aptly titled the "Extra-Large Version," promises an enhanced experience featuring newly developed large-scale interactive exhibits and exclusive original merchandise, elevating the familiar charm of Yoshitake’s work to a grander scale.

At the heart of the exhibition lies an extensive collection offering a unique window into the artist’s creative process. Visitors can peruse a vast number of sketches Yoshitake has meticulously compiled over many years in his small notebooks, capturing his observations of everyday life. Complementing these are numerous idea sketches, developmental rough drafts, and original picture book illustrations that meticulously trace the journey from initial concept to finished work. Furthermore, the exhibition displays cherished personal collections that have served as sources of inspiration, providing multifaceted insights into the distinctive "mind" of Shinsuke Yoshitake.

A key attraction of the exhibition is the inclusion of interactive installations conceived by Yoshitake himself, designed to immerse visitors directly into the whimsical worlds depicted in his picture books. Elements such as a station for playfully throwing apples at representations of noisy adults, alongside tactile experiences like "fluffy roads" and "thorny chairs" representing heaven and hell, allow for a tangible connection with his imaginative concepts.

Specifically for this Tokyo venue, the "Extra-Large Version" introduces multiple large-scale interactive exhibits not seen in previous iterations of the tour. Alongside these new installations, the exhibition will feature an expanded selection of original picture book illustrations and sketches. The range of original exhibition goods available for purchase is also planned to reflect the "extra-large" theme, offering unique souvenirs for attendees.

Whether you are discovering the delightful universe of Shinsuke Yoshitake for the first time or revisiting the exhibition to experience its expanded offerings, the "Yoshitake Shinsuke Exhibition Maybe: Extra-Large Version" presents a compelling opportunity for engagement and discovery.

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Artist Profile: Shinsuke Yoshitake

Born in Kanagawa Prefecture in 1973, Shinsuke Yoshitake is a graduate of the University of Tsukuba’s Graduate School of Art and Design, Comprehensive Design Course. He debuted as a picture book author in 2013 with "It Might Be an Apple" (Bronze Publishing). His work has received significant acclaim, including winning the MOE Picture Book Shop Award seven times for titles such as "It Might Be an Apple," "I Can’t Take It Off Anymore" (Bronze Publishing), "There Is a Reason," "Natsumi Can Be Anything," "I Peed a Little" (PHP Institute), "If It’s Hot, Take It Off" (Hakusensha), and "So Much, So Much" (Poplar Publishing). Notably, "It Might Be an Apple" also earned him the 61st Sankei Children’s Publishing Culture Award for Fine Arts. His international recognition includes the 2019 New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book Award for "The Boring Book," the English version of "Tsumannai Tsumannai" (Hakusensha).

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Please note: Ticket information and other specific details will be updated periodically. Visitors are advised to check the official exhibition website for the most current information.

Basic Information

• Venue / Nearest Station:
  TODA BUILDING (Nearest Station: Kyobashi)
• Address:
  1-7-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0031
  MAP
• Event Period:
  March 20, 2025 (Thursday/Holiday) – June 3, 2025 (Tuesday)
• Official Website:
  https://yoshitake-ten.exhibit.jp/

Published content is subject to change. For the latest information, please always refer to the official websites of the venue and event organizers.

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What is Yoshitake Shinsuke known for?

Yoshitake Shinsuke is known for his engaging illustrations and picture books that appeal to both children and adults. His work combines humor and curiosity, often exploring themes related to imagination and everyday life. Shinsuke’s ability to express complex emotions and ideas through simple drawings has earned him a loyal audience and critical recognition. His books encourage readers to view the world differently and embrace creativity. Through his art, Shinsuke offers experiences that connect personally with audiences, making his exhibitions enjoyable and thought-provoking.

Taiwan Festival in Tokyo Skytree TownⓇ 2025

Experience Authentic Taiwanese Night Market Cuisine During an Extended Spring Run

The popular Taiwan Festival returns to Tokyo Skytree Town for its third iteration, offering an extended opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant atmosphere and rich flavors of Taiwanese night markets. Running from early April through the beginning of June 2025, encompassing the Golden Week holidays, this event provides a large gathering of authentic Taiwanese gourmet food right at the base of Tokyo Skytree.

A Taste of Taiwan: Culinary Highlights

Operating under the theme "Taiwanese night market 365 days a year in Japan," the festival is dedicated to presenting a diverse array of genuine "night market gourmet" dishes, meticulously prepared to capture the true essence of Taiwanese culinary traditions. Beyond simply serving food, the event aims to foster cultural exchange between Japan and Taiwan, allowing visitors to experience a slice of Taiwanese life through its celebrated cuisine.

While attendees can expect to find familiar and beloved Taiwanese staples, the 2025 festival introduces exciting new content. A notable feature this year is the introduction of special collaboration menus developed with the renowned "Lehua Night Market" located in New Taipei City, Taiwan. This partnership promises unique dishes that offer a direct taste of one of Taiwan’s popular local markets. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy the newly introduced "Taiwanese Fresh Lemon Sour," a refreshing beverage crafted using lemons sourced from Taiwan.

Venue and Atmosphere

The festival takes place at the Sky Arena on the 4th floor of Tokyo Skytree Town. The venue itself will be transformed with decorations reminiscent of a traditional Taiwanese night market, complete with characteristic neon lights. Organizers highlight that the ambiance will shift between day and night, offering visually distinct experiences for visitors depending on when they attend—a detail worth observing during a visit.

Essential Information

Here are the key details for planning your visit:

• Location/Nearest Station: Tokyo Skytree Town(R) via Tokyo Skytree Station or Oshiage <Skytree-mae> Station.
• Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, 〒131-0045 (View on Map).
• Venue: Tokyo Skytree Town 4th Floor Sky Arena.
• Event Period: Saturday, April 5, 2025 – Sunday, June 1, 2025.
• Operating Hours:
  • Weekdays: 11:00 – 21:00
  • Weekends & Holidays: 10:30 – 21:30
• Admission Fee: Free entry to the festival area.
• Organizer: Taiwan Festival Executive Committee.
• Official Website: Taiwan Festival
• Official SNS:
  • X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/taiwanmatsuri_e
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taiwanmatsuri_event
• Weather Policy: The event will proceed in case of rain but may be cancelled in severe weather conditions.

Please note that published content is subject to change. It is advisable to check the official venue and organizer websites for the latest information before your visit.

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Understanding Taiwanese Night Markets

Taiwanese night markets are open-air markets that operate in the evenings, offering a variety of food and goods. They are a significant part of Taiwanese culture, serving as social spaces where locals and tourists gather to enjoy street food, shop, and experience local life.

Food is central to these markets, with stalls offering a range of traditional snacks and dishes. Options include stinky tofu, bubble tea, oyster omelets, beef noodle soup, and Taiwanese fried chicken, showcasing Taiwan’s culinary diversity.

In addition to food, vendors sell clothing, accessories, electronics, and souvenirs, often at competitive prices. The atmosphere is lively, with the sounds of vendors, customers, and street performers contributing to the dynamic environment.

Night markets offer more than commerce; they provide insight into Taiwan’s daily life and social interactions. People of all ages come together to eat, shop, and enjoy the evening, making a visit to a Taiwanese night market a memorable experience that reflects the country’s vibrant street culture.

The 46th Ueno Toshogu Shrine Spring Peony Festival

The Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden is set to host the 46th iteration of its celebrated Spring Peony Festival. Located within the grounds of Ueno Toshogu Shrine—a significant historical site built to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, Tokugawa Yoshimune, and Tokugawa Yoshinobu—the festival offers visitors a chance to observe the daily transformations of peonies as they bloom progressively amidst the warming spring weather. This annual event provides a wonderful opportunity to witness nature’s artistry unfold.

During the festival period, attendees can admire an extensive collection comprising over 500 peony plants, representing 110 distinct varieties sourced internationally from Japan, China, the United States, and France, among other nations. Beyond the commonly seen red and pink cultivars, the garden features rarer specimens that are sure to capture attention. Notably, visitors can enjoy the unique green-flowered ‘Marimo,’ a variety resulting from a natural cross-pollination between Chinese and Japanese peony types. The sheer diversity and scale of the display present a compelling reason to visit.

◆ Rare Varieties Viewable This Season

Among the notable rare varieties available for viewing this spring are:

• [Zipangu] A striking yellow thousand-petaled peony, which can be enjoyed not only for its visual appeal but also for its very elegant fragrance.
• [Akagane no Kagayaki (Copper Glow)] A particularly rare variety of peony, distinguished by its unusual yellow-tinged orange petals, offering a distinct color profile within the garden.

◆ Experience Peonies Amidst Authentic Edo Architecture

A significant aspect that enhances the appeal of this festival is its unique historical setting. From vantage points within the peony garden, visitors are afforded views of authentic Edo-period architecture, most notably the impressive Former Kaneiji Five-Storied Pagoda. The presence of traditional stone lanterns lining the approach to the Toshogu Shrine, combined with a meticulously maintained Japanese rock garden, allows for an experience of viewing peonies within an atmospheric Edo context—an ambiance difficult to replicate elsewhere.

◆ Abundant Photo Opportunities and Complementary Flora

The garden provides numerous opportunities for capturing memorable photographs. Colorful carp streamers (koinobori) are displayed alongside the peonies and other flowering plants, offering vibrant, seasonal photo compositions. Additionally, carefully arranged potted plants and bonsai are thoughtfully prepared and positioned throughout the garden, contributing further to its overall aesthetic appeal. Complementing the main peony display, other flowers such as rhododendrons and approximately 20 different varieties of herbaceous peonies bloom sequentially. This ensures that there are varied points of visual interest and highlights evolving daily throughout the festival’s duration.

Please be sure to check the official website for the most current details regarding the event.

Basic Information

• Venue/Nearest Station:
  Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden
  Accessible from Keisei Ueno Station.
• Location:
  9-88 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
  MAP
• Event Period:
  2025/04/05 (Saturday) – 2025/05/06 (Tuesday/Holiday)
  Open every day during the specified period.
• Time:
  Opens 9:00 / Closes 17:00 (Last entry permitted at 17:00)
• Fees:
  • Adults (junior high school students and above): 1,000 yen
  • Groups (15 persons or more): 800 yen per person
  • Period Entry Ticket (valid for multiple entries during the festival): 2,500 yen
  • Elementary school students and younger: Free admission
• Contact:
  Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden
  03-3822-3575
• Official Website:
  https://uenobotanen.com/

Please note that published content may be subject to change. It is advisable to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the latest information before your visit.

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What is Ueno Toshogu Shrine?

Ueno Toshogu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ueno Park, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, and was built in 1627. The shrine is notable for its architecture, particularly the honden (main hall), which is decorated with carvings and gold leaf typical of the Edo period. The shrine’s surroundings include a pond and gardens, offering a quiet space away from the city. Ueno Toshogu Shrine hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Spring Peony Festival, which attracts visitors to see the peony flowers in bloom.

Super Body Adventure at Yomiuriland

Explore the Wonders Within: An Educational Science Event

Yomiuriland invites visitors to embark on a unique scientific journey with its first-ever "Super Body Adventure" event. This engaging and educational exhibition provides an interactive opportunity to explore the intricate workings of the human body by adventuring inside a colossal, specially constructed model. The exploration commences at the "Pakkun Entrance," distinctively shaped like a large mouth, guiding attendees through a series of more than 15 distinct areas. These include hands-on attractions and informative graphic exhibits, each themed around various organs, designed collectively to uncover the secrets held within our anatomy.

To add an element of challenge and reward, certain paid attractions within the event offer prizes related to the human body upon successful completion. Scheduled conveniently during the spring break and Golden Week periods, Super Body Adventure presents an excellent opportunity for discovery, learning, and entertainment for visitors of various ages. Why not dedicate some time to delve into the "secrets of the body" during your visit to Yomiuriland?

Featured Attractions

Among the diverse contents available, several key attractions offer particularly memorable and insightful experiences into human biology:

• Rolling Inside the Stomach: Participants can physically enter a giant, tunnel-shaped representation of the stomach. Inside this interactive attraction, individuals gain insights into the digestive process through active participation—specifically, by maneuvering large balls through the space, an action designed to simulate the breakdown of food.
• Poop Fortune-telling: This lighthearted booth offers a moment of amusement and perhaps surprising insight. Visitors are invited to sit on a specially designed toilet, which triggers the appearance of a whimsical poop character ready to deliver a unique "poop fortune" for the day.
• Organ Weight Lab: Providing a valuable tactile learning experience, this corner features detailed models of vital organs, including the heart and liver. Visitors are encouraged to hold these models, allowing for a direct, physical comparison of their shapes and relative weights, thereby fostering a more tangible understanding of internal anatomy.
• Lung! High! Pump (Paid Attraction): This attraction presents a game of speed and coordination. Players operate a pump mechanism, simulating the action required to send a sufficient volume of air to the lungs. Achieving the target within the designated time limit earns a specific prize for success, while all participants, regardless of outcome, receive a participation prize for their efforts.
  • Price: 1 attempt costs 400 yen; 3 attempts are available for 1,000 yen.

Visitor Information

For those planning to experience the Super Body Adventure, please find the essential details below:

• Location: Yomiuriland, 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi City, Tokyo, 〒206-0812. View on Map
• Nearest Station: Keio Yomiuriland Station
• Venue within Park: The event is hosted in the Aurora Space, located inside the Goodjoba!! area of Yomiuriland.
• Event Dates: Thursday, March 20, 2025 (National Holiday) through Monday, May 26, 2025.
  • Important Note: Yomiuriland may be closed on certain days during this period. It is strongly recommended to check the official Yomiuriland website for the detailed operating calendar before your visit.
• Operating Hours: Super Body Adventure is open during Yomiuriland’s regular park hours, from opening until closing. Please be aware that the last admission to the event area is permitted 15 minutes prior to the park’s official closing time for the day.
• Admission Fee: Access to the Super Body Adventure requires a specific event ticket, separate from the general park admission.
  • Same-day ticket prices:
    • Junior high school students and older: 800 yen
    • Children aged 3 years through elementary school students: 600 yen
  • Please remember that a general admission ticket to Yomiuriland park is also necessary to enter the grounds and access the event venue.
• Official Event Page: For the most current information, including any potential updates to schedules or content, please refer to the Official Website.
• Disclaimer: All published content, including dates, times, prices, and attraction details, may be subject to change without prior notice. Visitors should always verify the latest information directly with the venue’s and organizer’s official websites before finalizing plans.
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What is Yomiuriland?

Yomiuriland is an amusement park situated in Inagi, Tokyo, Japan. It features a range of attractions and events throughout the year, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas suitable for all ages. The park is noted for its cherry blossoms in spring and illumination displays in winter. Beyond its regular offerings, Yomiuriland hosts events like the "Super Body Adventure," which provides an interactive exploration of the human body.

A Movement of Flowers and Light: Stars of Toneri Reflected in the Nemophila Sea of Toneri Park

Experience the Fusion of Nemophila Blooms and Illuminations at Toneri Park’s "Flower and Light Movement"

Toneri Park invites visitors to experience the "Flower and Light Movement," an event where the delicate beauty of blooming blue nemophila flowers merges with captivating illuminations. Held within the park grounds already vibrant with these lovely blossoms, the event presents a distinctive combination of light displays, accompanying soundscapes, and impressively scaled giant nemophila flower installations—reaching up to 25 times their natural size—to craft a truly unique atmosphere. This limited engagement, spanning 19 days, offers an opportunity to step into an extraordinary space defined by Toneri Park’s natural floral beauty and the soothing presence of carefully designed lighting.

Now in its third year at Toneri Park, the event centers around the concept of "Toneri Blue," a color theme inspired by the shared hue of nemophila flowers, the expansive sky, and reflective water surfaces. As night falls, specialized lighting designed to accentuate this Toneri Blue transforms the park into a fantastical and calming environment. Adding to the spectacle, decorations featuring oversized artificial nemophila flowers will be present throughout the event period. These installations ensure that even during daylight hours, visitors can enjoy an immersive sensation, feeling as though they have entered a magnified world of nemophila, providing a thrilling and unusual perspective. Dedicated photo spots will also be established within the park, allowing guests to capture memories of their visit. To complete the experience, food trucks will be available on-site, offering refreshments to enjoy amidst the Toneri Blue surroundings.

Event Highlights and Features

Ultramarine Flower (Around the Fountain)

Upon entering Toneri Park and approaching the fountain area, visitors will encounter a striking floral art object spelling out "TONERI." This piece, decorated with blue artificial flowers including nemophila, serves as a welcoming, photogenic feature. At night, the installation is illuminated with lights possessing a color temperature close to natural sunlight, which enhances the mystical beauty of the blue tones, creating an effect reminiscent of viewing the flowers under daylight conditions.
Please note: The fountain itself will be closed and not operational during the event period.

Lapis Lazuli Tree-lined Path (Metasequoia & Stream)

The towering Metasequoia trees lining the park’s path will be bathed in a fantastical "Lapis Lazuli" light, a name derived from Rurikarakusa, the Japanese name for the nemophila flower. Along the central stream bed that runs through this tree-lined path, gradient shades of blue lighting will be employed to simulate the appearance of shimmering, flowing water, even though the stream itself will remain dry.
Please note: The stream will contain no water and will be closed during the event period.

Crimson Sky Time (Around the Fountain & Stream)

Near the fountain situated at the end of the stream path extending from the park entrance, an arrangement of illuminated spheres in various sizes will create a captivating display. The central area of the fountain basin will feature the giant nemophila flower installations, meticulously crafted to replicate the intricate details of the actual flowers at a scale up to approximately 25 times larger than life. This area will also showcase dynamic, color-changing illuminations designed to evoke the shifting hues of the sky as it transitions from evening twilight to deep night.
Please note: The fountain itself will be closed and not operational during the event period.

Glow of Meditation (Lawn Plaza)

The nemophila flower beds, serving as the principal natural attraction of this event, will be thoughtfully illuminated. Carefully selected Toneri Blue lights will highlight the individual blossoms, making each small flower stand out with dignity and contributing to the overall impression of a vast "sea of nemophila." During the evening hours, this visual display will be complemented by sound effects. Illuminations synchronized to pulse and change with the soundscape evoke the image of stars twinkling in the night sky. This interplay of light, sound, and the expansive nemophila fields under the Toneri sky aims to create a truly fantastical landscape, immersing visitors in a breathtaking world that fully expresses the charm of the nemophila flower.

Photo Spot (Lawn Plaza)

Strategically placed photo spots will be available within the Lawn Plaza, situated in prime locations for capturing images of the nemophila flower beds in their full bloom. These designated areas provide excellent opportunities for visitors to take commemorative photographs against the stunning backdrop of Toneri Blue.

Food Trucks and Refreshments

Throughout the event, food trucks will be present, offering a variety of food and drink options. A nearby rest area, also illuminated, will provide a comfortable space to relax and enjoy refreshments. Furthermore, the park’s shop will feature a special, limited-time "Nemophila Soft Serve" ice cream. Visitors are welcome to savor drinks and food within the park while taking in the Toneri Blue ambiance.
Please note: Details regarding food truck vendors and specific offerings are subject to change without prior notice. Visitors are advised to check the official event website for the most current information on food trucks.

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Important Considerations:

• The event schedule and certain services may be subject to cancellation, suspension, or alteration due to inclement weather, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances.
• Visitors are strongly encouraged to consult the official "Flower and Light Movement" special website for the latest updates and information before planning their visit.

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Basic Information

• Location/Nearest Station:
  Toneri Park
  Accessible via Toneri Koen Station
• Address:
  〒121-0837
  Toneri Koen, Nishiikomachi, etc., Adachi-ku, Tokyo
  View on Map
• Venue:
  Tokyo Metropolitan Toneri Park, Area B (Specifically around the fountain and Lawn Plaza)
• Event Period:
  Friday, April 11, 2025 – Tuesday, April 29, 2025 (National Holiday)
• Illumination Time:
  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays (excluding April 28th): 18:00 – 20:00 (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
  • Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, and Monday, April 28th: 18:00 – 20:30 (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
• Admission Fee:
  Free
• Inquiries:
  Toneri Park Service Center
  Telephone: 03-3857-2308
  (Available 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM)
• Official Website:
  https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/special/flowerandlight/toneri2025spring/

Disclaimer: Event details are subject to change. Please verify the latest information on the official venue or organizer’s website before visiting.

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What is Nemophila?

Nemophila, often referred to as "baby blue eyes," is an annual flower native to North America. It is known for its sky-blue petals, usually featuring a white center, which creates a striking visual effect. Nemophila blooms in the spring, often covering fields and gardens with its distinctive blue hue. The plant grows well in cool climates and well-drained soil, making it a favored choice for gardens and parks. In Japan, nemophila has become quite popular, with large displays drawing visitors who appreciate the flowers’ beauty. Events like the Toneri Park Flower and Light Movement 2025 in Tokyo plan to feature these blooms, combining them with light displays for an engaging experience.