Discover the Magic: Isao Takahata's Ghibli Co-Founder Exhibition Opens This June
Celebrate the 90th birthday of a legendary director with this inspiring exhibition honoring their timeless contributions to cinema.
Celebrating Takahata Isao: New Exhibition Honors a Japanese Animation Legend
An upcoming exhibition marks a special milestone for fans and enthusiasts of Japanese animation, commemorating what would have been the 90th birthday of the renowned director Takahata Isao.
The Exhibition Details
- Title: Takahata Isao Exhibition: The Man Who Planted Japanese Animation
- Dates: June 27 to September 15
- Location: Azabudai Hills Gallery, Tokyo
- Organized by: Studio Ghibli
- Significance: Also celebrates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II
Focus on Takahata’s Legacy
This exhibition is a tribute centered around Takahata’s influential career, with a special focus on his 1988 film Grave of the Fireflies. Visitors will have the opportunity to view celluloids and background art from several of his notable works, including:
- Grave of the Fireflies
- Pom Poko
- Heidi, Girl of the Alps
- My Neighbors The Yamada’s
- The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
Unique Discoveries
During preparations, staff uncovered a rare harmony cel of the heavy cruiser Maya from Grave of the Fireflies. Unlike typical cels with flat tones, this cel is colored like a traditional painting, offering more realistic gradations. This will be displayed to the public for the first time.
Image via Ghibli Official
Art and Archives
The exhibition also features iconic frames from past works and offers a glimpse into Takahata’s artistic process.
| Artwork | Description |
|---|---|
 | From: Heidi, Girl of the Alps (1974) |
 | From: Anne of Green Gables (1979) |
| From: Pom Poko (1994) | |
 | From: My Neighbors The Yamada’s (1999) |
| From: The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013) | |
| From: Grave of the Fireflies (1988) |
Audio Guide and Special Tours
An exclusive audio guide, narrated by Japanese personality Hikaru Ijūin and actress Sakiko Tamagawa, will be available for ¥700 (around US$4.90), featuring a curated playlist of five songs chosen by director Shunji Iwai. Additionally, limited night tours with commentary by Studio Ghibli’s curator, Chiyoshi Tanaka, were held on July 1 and 8 but are now sold out.
Tickets and Offers
Pre-sale tickets can be purchased through the Azabudai Hills Gallery website and LAWSON, with prices:
- Pre-release: 1,800 yen (general), 1,500 yen (students), 1,200 yen (children 4+ to junior high)
- During the exhibition: 2,000 yen (general), 1,700 yen (students), 1,400 yen (children 4+ to junior high)
Special discounts: Those with a ticket stub from the Ghibli 3D Sculptures Exhibition will get a 200 yen discount.
Exclusive gifts: Weekday visitors will receive a special paper case with one of five unique designs, available first come, first served.
More Details
Images courtesy of Azabudai Hills Gallery.
Explore Takahata’s Artistic Spirit
This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore the life and work of one of Japan’s most influential animators. From heartfelt stories to groundbreaking artistry, Takahata’s legacy continues to inspire.
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