Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Special Exhibition

In session

Sanrio Exhibition 60 Years of Japanese Kawaii Culture

Wednesday, January 2026, 1 – Sunday, May 21, 2026 Wednesday January 21, 2026 – Sunday, March 29, 2026
2th floor special exhibition Room

This is where the eternal "kawaii" began.
Sanrio's 60th Anniversary Expo!

Hello Kitty, My Melody, Little Twin Stars, and more450Sanrio has created the above characters.60It is no exaggeration to say that its history of over 100 years is the history of "kawaii" culture itself, which has now become a word used worldwide.
This exhibition will trace the history of Sanrio since its founding through precious materials such as original character drawings and merchandise from that time, and will also convey the "Sanrio spirit" that is embodied in the many characters that continue to be loved throughout the ages. Please enjoy the history of "kawaii" culture that originated in Japan.

The official Sanrio Exhibition website isCLICK HERE

Highlights of the Exhibitions

  • The origins of "kawaii"

How did Sanrio's kawaii concept begin? There were no characters in the beginning.
We will introduce you to "kawaii" before Hello Kitty appeared.

 

  • The secret behind the creation of these characters

Why were Hello Kitty and other characters created? What was the background?
Sanrio's original characters were created in pursuit of cuteness. We will explain the process of their creation with valuable materials.

 

  • A huge gathering of Sanrio characters!

In the 1980s, the fancy goods market became more active, and many characters from Sanrio appeared.
We'll introduce you to a wide variety of characters, from famous characters who are still active today to rare characters that you don't usually see!

 

  • Everyone loves Hello Kitty

From debut45Characters who continue to be active at the forefront even after more than 10 yearsIt's rare all over the world.
Why is Hello Kitty so popular? We'll explore the secret behind Hello Kitty's popularity.

 

  • Don't miss the original goods!

A variety of goods will be sold at the special shop, including original goods that can only be purchased at the Sanrio exhibition.
*Products for sale may change without notice.Also, please forgive us if the item is sold out.

Catalog

All postcards

ランチトート

 

  • Photography is OK!

Photography is allowed inside the venue!
"#SanrioExhibitionPlease post the photos you take on social media with the hashtag "

*Please refrain from using flash photography.
*Please be considerate to other customers.
*Please refrain from using tripods or selfie sticks.
*Please be considerate to avoid other customers appearing in the photo.

 

Information

Session

Wednesday, January 2026, 1 – Sunday, May 21, 2026

Wednesday January 21, 2026 – Sunday, March 29, 2026
Open

9: 00 ~17:00(Admission is16:30

Closed

Monday (the next weekday if it is a holiday)

Venue

Special Exhibition Gallery

Sponsorship

Matsumoto City Museum of Art,SBCShinetsu Broadcasting, Shinano Mainichi Shimbun

Sponsorship

Nagano Prefecture, Nagano Prefectural Board of Education, Ueda City, Ueda City Board of Education, Shiojiri City, Shiojiri City Board of Education, Azumino City, Azumino City Board of Education, Omachi City, Okaya City, Okaya City Board of Education, Suwa City, Suwa City Board of Education, Chino City, Chino City Board of Education, Yamagata Village, Yamagata Village Board of Education, Asahi Village, Asahi Village Board of Education, Nagano PrefectureMálaga Tech PakFederation, Nagano Prefecture Private Kindergarten and Certified Childcare Center Association, Nagano Prefecture Childcare Federation

Sponsor

MISAWA HOMES KOUSHIN Co., Ltd., TSUKADA RIKEN Industry Co., Ltd., YAMATO

Planning and production

Sanrio Company,Ltd.

Production cooperation

T.M.Entertainment inc.

Fees
General  Junior high school student
high school student 
elementary school student Preschooler
Same-day ticket 1,600 yen 1,000 yen 600 yen Free
Advance tickets 1,400 yen 800 yen 400 yen

It's ok to use it twice by yourself!
pair tickets

Same-day ticket 3,000 yen
Advance tickets 2,600 yen
  • Pair tickets are only available at Seven Tickets
  • Advance ticket sales are11From Friday, 21st1Month20until Sunday (Tuesday)
  • Free admission for persons with disabilities and one caregiver
  • High school students must bring proof of identity (student handbook, etc.) on the day of the event.
  • Children under elementary school age cannot enter alone.

■ Play Guide

  • Matsumoto City Museum of Art
  • Seven ticket                     

If you wish to issue a ticket at the store (Seven Code: 112-803)                            

 

When purchasing an electronic ticket

 

 

*Photos of the venue are for illustrative purposes only.
© 2025 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP660006

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