Sébastien Raineri

Their time in the subcultural shadows long gone, manga and anime are now common sights at prestigious art museums around the world, with large-scale exhibitions showcasing otaku culture and popular titles popping up from New York and London to Singapore in recent years. But Tokyo is still the world capital of anime and manga shows, and this year brings another packed slate of highlights to exhibition venues around the city. These are our picks of the best displays coming up in 2025 – from cyberpunk dreams and epic sagas to art inspired by the world’s most famous monster. RECOMMENDED: The best art exhibitions to see in Tokyo this year

The art year 2025 in Tokyo is looking packed, with a hefty slate of exhibitions and events highlighting everything from cutting-edge contemporary art to thousand-year old treasures. The visionary sound installations of Ryuichi Sakamoto can be appreciated at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo through the end of March, while spring sees the Mori Museum highlight the intersection of art and digital technology and the Azabudai Hills Gallery showcase the eclectic work of Tomokazu Matsuyama. Big draws in the latter half of the year include an in-depth look at the career of Expo 2025 site designer Sou Fujimoto and the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum’s celebration of 1920s fashion. Mark your calendars… RECOMMENDED: The best new attractions and facilities opening in Tokyo in 2025

First serialised in 1985, City Hunter is one of Japan’s most iconic manga series, blending hard-boiled action with gritty comedy. Created by Tsukasa Hojo, the story follows Ryo Saeba, a talented and charismatic ‘sweeper’ who operates in Tokyo, taking on cases ranging from protecting clients to solving mysteries. Along with his loyal but hot-tempered partner Kaori Makimura, Ryo’s adventures balance thrilling shootouts, heartfelt moments and his notorious womanising antics, often leading to comedic consequences. City Hunter has remained a beloved franchise over the decades, spawning multiple anime adaptations, films and spin-offs, captivating audiences with its blend of 1980s urban glamour and timeless storytelling. In celebration of the series’ 40th anniversary, the City Hunter Retro Pop Days pop-up store will open at the Gallery of Hakaba in Nakano Broadway, from March 19 to April 22. Fans will be able to browse an exclusive collection of nostalgic yet modern merchandise inspired by the series. A tribute to the enduring legacy of City Hunter, the pop-up fuses retro aesthetics with contemporary style, inviting fans to relive the vibrant world of Ryo and Kaori in an interactive setting. Step into the streets of 1980s Tokyo and celebrate four decades of City Hunter in true pop fashion.

Tsukasa Hojo’s popular manga City Hunter debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1985, and the action comedy series has since become firmly established in the Japanese comics canon. The story follows the charismatic but easily distracted private investigator Ryo Saeba, an inveterate womaniser, as he takes on high-stakes missions in Tokyo, helping those in need while navigating an ever-expanding cast of allies and adversaries. Known for its gripping blend of action, humour and heartfelt moments, City Hunter has inspired anime adaptations, films, and live-action interpretations around the world. To commemorate the manga’s 40th anniversary, the Ueno Royal Museum will be hosting the ‘City Hunter 40th Anniversary Original Art Exhibition’ from November 22 to December 28 2025. The special showcase is set to feature a vast collection of original artwork, tracing the series’ evolution over four decades. Fans will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of City Hunter through rare illustrations, behind-the-scenes sketches, and iconic moments that have defined the series. Sharing his thoughts on the milestone, Tsukasa Hojo humorously noted that while protagonist Ryo Saeba repeatedly proclaims himself ‘twenty years old’ (regardless of his real age), City Hunter is now celebrating its ‘second coming-of-age ceremony’. Here’s to hoping that Ryo’s adventures will continue to resonate with readers for decades to come.

Few would argue against the late Leiji Matsumoto as one of Japan’s most visionary manga artists. Born in 1938, Matsumoto grew up fascinated by the night sky, a passion that would later shape his iconic stories such as Galaxy Express 999 and Space Pirate Captain Harlock. His work blends space-faring adventure with profound philosophical themes, exploring concepts of life, mortality and human perseverance, and has inspired creatives worldwide, even shaping the dreams of future astronauts. From June 20 to September 7, Tokyo City View at Roppongi Hills will host ‘Leiji Matsumoto: A Creative Journey’, the first major exhibition dedicated to the prolific career of an artist who left an indelible mark on the world of sci-fi with his rich storytelling and strikingly detailed art. Marking the beginning of a series of events celebrating the upcoming 50th anniversary of Galaxy Express 999, this exhibition will immerse visitors in Matsumoto’s imaginative universe. Featuring over 300 original drawings, including early works, rare materials and never-before-seen sketches, the display offers an opportunity to dig deep into the Kitakyushu native’s creative process and experience the timeless magic of his work.

Few works of anime have left as profound a mark on Japan’s pop-cultural landscape as Space Battleship Yamato. Directed by the legendary mangaka Leiji Matsumoto, the sci-fi epic was first aired in 1974 and revolutionised the medium, introducing a sweeping narrative, complex characters, and a cinematic approach that would influence generations of creators. The series follows the battleship Yamato on its desperate 296,000-light-year journey to save Earth from extinction, weaving a tale of heroism, sacrifice and resilience. With its captivating storylines and stunning mechanical designs, Space Battleship Yamato became a cornerstone of anime history, inspiring countless adaptations, sequels and remakes. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the epic series, the ‘Space Battleship Yamato Complete Record Exhibition’ will be held at Seibu Shibuya from March 15 to March 31. Fans will have the chance to explore original proposals, character and mechanical design drawings, background artwork, and animated cels from the series’ production. Planned and produced by acclaimed director Hideaki Anno, who has spoken about his deep gratitude for the influence Yamato has had on his life and career, the exhibition promises a treasure trove of rare and never-before-seen materials, allowing new generations to appreciate the series’ ground-breaking legacy.

Believe it or not, SpongeBob SquarePants is turning 25. The lovable yellow deep-sea dweller has delighted audiences worldwide with his infectious enthusiasm and underwater adventures since debuting back in 1999. In that time, the Nickelodeon character has become – hell, it’s true – a global cultural icon, inspiring generations with his quirky humor and unforgettable catchphrases. Set in the whimsical world of Bikini Bottom, SpongeBob’s misadventures with Patrick, Squidward and company have transcended TV to influence films, Broadway and an ever-expanding universe of merchandise. To celebrate a quarter-century of SpongeBob, Seibu Shibuya will host ‘SpongeBob Snapshot Square’ from February 19 to March 9. Snapping pics in front of numerous photo spots featuring vibrant pop art, visitors can capture moments that make them feel like they’ve entered a real SpongeBob episode.  In addition to interactive displays, the event will feature Japan’s largest-ever SpongeBob pop-up store, offering a wide selection of character merch. A special highlight will be a collaboration with renowned marine researcher and artist Sakana-kun, whose exclusive SpongeBob-inspired artwork will be available for purchase.  Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the joy of SpongeBob, the Snapshot Square promises a fun-filled dive into an animated classic that continues to amuse and gross out viewers across generations.

Working mainly amidst the modernisation push and ensuing tumult of the Meiji era, Toyohara Kunichika (1835–1900) was a visionary ukiyo-e printmaker who revitalised the traditional art form with his bold use of colour and dynamic compositions. Best known for his yakusha-e (portraits of kabuki actors), Kunichika brought the world of theatre to life with an intensity rarely seen before.  The Ota Memorial Museum of Art commemorates the 190th anniversary of Kunichika’s birth with a retrospective featuring 210 carefully selected works. The exhibition offers a comprehensive view of the artist’s palette, highlighting not only his famous actor portraits, but also his bijin-ga (beautiful women), musha-e (warriors), landscapes, and rare nikuhitsu-ga (hand-painted ukiyo-e). Drawing on the latest academic research, the retrospective sheds new light on Kunichika’s artistic evolution and enduring influence. Kunichika isn’t quite as well-known or highly appreciated as some of his fellow printmakers from the same era, so this exhibition makes for a rare opportunity to explore the full oeuvre of an artist who, against the tide of modernisation, remained true to his commitment to a centuries-old tradition while redefining it for a new era.

Step into a world where reality is reshaped at ‘A Miniature World x Hyakudan Kaidan’, an exhibition that invites you to explore Japan in its tiniest, most intricate forms. Held within the historic Hyakudan Kaidan, a designated tangible cultural property located at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, the event transforms seven rooms into enchanting realms of meticulously crafted miniatures.  Running until March 9, the exhibition showcases over 1,000 pieces that span a wide array of styles and periods, from Edo-period (1603–1867) dollhouses to contemporary hyper-realistic dioramas. A particular highlight is the Hinamatsuri collection, where Hina dolls and accessories evoke the refinement of Japan’s traditional Girls’ Day festival. In a dimly lit room, shimmering reflections from a still-water display enhance the exquisite details of these diminutive treasures. Going beyond traditional miniatures, the exhibition aims for an immersive experience that plays with perspective, inviting visitors to feel as if they have shrunk and entered a whimsical wonderland. By juxtaposing historical craftsmanship with modern mastery, ‘A Miniature World x Hyakudan Kaidan’ offers an extraordinary glimpse into the artistry of small-scale creations.

As his nickname ‘God of Manga’ suggests, the Osaka-born Osamu Tezuka (1928–1989) revolutionised Japanese manga and animation, shaping the industry into what it is today. His immense creativity and pioneering storytelling introduced the world to classics such as Astro Boy, Black Jack and Kimba the White Lion. The artist himself, however, considered Phoenix (Hinotori) his magnum opus. A profound and ambitious saga exploring the nature of life, death and reincarnation, the Phoenix narrative follows humanity’s relentless pursuit of immortality through the mythical bird whose blood grants eternal life, alternating between the distant past and far future.  To celebrate the 70th anniversary of this landmark work, the first large-scale Phoenix exhibition will take place from March 7 to May 25 at Tokyo City View in Roppongi Hills. Featuring over 800 pieces spanning the manga’s twelve main arcs, the exhibition will not only showcase original artworks and manuscripts; it’ll also invite visitors to explore Tezuka's conclusion, left unfinished following the artist’s untimely death in 1989. By merging art, philosophy and science, ‘Osamu Tezuka’s Phoenix Exhibition’ offers a fresh perspective on one of manga’s greatest masterpieces, conveying Tezuka’s visionary legacy to new generations.

Originally serialised in Weekly Big Comic Spirits from 2020 to 2022, mononymous author Uoto’s manga Orb: On the Movements of the Earth takes readers to a fictional 15th-century European kingdom where heliocentric theory challenges the long-held geocentric worldview upheld by the Church. In an era where knowledge was tightly controlled and heresy could cost one’s life, the work tells a gripping story of intellectual challenge. The series captivated readers with its nuanced exploration of science, faith and the relentless pursuit of truth. Following its literary success, Orb was adapted into an anime by Madhouse and aired on Netflix. The Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation) is hosting an immersive experience themed on the work from March 14 to June 1. Titled ‘Orb: On the Movements of the Earth –An act of planet–’, the exhibition will bridge the gap between fiction and reality by tracing the real-world transition from the geocentric to the heliocentric model, one of the most far-reaching paradigm shifts in human history. Visitors will be able to experience key scenes from the anime, see original films and take on interactive exhibits. By making astronomy more accessible and engaging, the exhibition aims to bring to life the very questions that fuelled the intellectual revolution at the heart of Orb.

The creator of seminal works of manga that have profoundly influenced cyberpunk aesthetics and futuristic storytelling, Masamune Shirow is best known for Ghost in the Shell, Appleseed and Dominion. As a pioneer in the study of the implications of artificial intelligence on society, the Kobe-born artist has been exploring the intersection of technology, humanity and consciousness since the 1980s, captivating audiences with his ability to foresee a digitalised future in ways that remain highly relevant today. From April 12 to August 17, the Setagaya Literary Museum is hosting ‘The World of Masamune Shirow: ‘The Ghost in the Shell’ and the Path of Creation’, an exhibition offering an unprecedented glimpse into the artist’s creative world. The show coincides with the 30th anniversary of Ghost in the Shell’s legendary 1995 anime adaptation, as well as the 30th anniversary of the museum. Visitors will have a rare opportunity to explore the mind of an artist who redefined the cyberpunk genre, gaining an in-depth look at Shirow’s groundbreaking storytelling and visual mastery.

For over a decade, My Hero Academia has captivated fans worldwide with its gripping narrative, compelling characters and high-octane battles. Created by Kohei Horikoshi, the manga debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2014 and quickly became a cornerstone of modern shonen storytelling. Its success spawned a multimedia empire, including an anime adaptation by Studio Bones, multiple animated films, spin-off manga and an upcoming live-action adaptation. With the anime’s grand finale set to air in late 2025, Kohei Horikoshi’s ‘My Hero Academia Original Art Exhibition’ serves as both a celebration of and farewell to a franchise that has left an indelible mark on the world of anime and manga. The expansive exhibition, set to run from June 21 to August 31 at Creative Museum Tokyo, promises an in-depth look at the creative process behind the beloved series. Visitors will have access to original manga pages, concept art and exclusive materials from Horikoshi himself.

After celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2024, the legendary kaiju takes center stage at the Mori Arts Center Gallery with ‘Godzilla: The Art’, an exhibition highlighting the still-evolving legacy of the world’s most famous monster. Running from April 26 to June 29, this fifth installment in the acclaimed ‘Godzilla: The Art’ series invites visitors to experience the beast through a new artistic lens. Since its cinematic debut in 1954, Godzilla has embodied themes of destruction, rebirth, and the ever-evolving relationship between humanity and nature. As a true international icon, the King of the Monsters continues to inspire wonder and dread in fans of all generations in search of symbolism and entertainment alike.  Curated under the direction of renowned anatomist Takeshi Yoro, the exhibition breaks free from the confines of cinema to explore Godzilla as an artistic and cultural phenomenon. Featuring works by 15 contemporary artists, it showcases sculptures, paintings and multimedia pieces that reinterpret the essence and impact of Godzilla.

If your familiarity with Ryuichi Sakamoto is limited to his scores for films like Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence and The Last Emperor, a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo this winter or spring may prove startling and satisfying in equal measure. At ‘Ryuichi Sakamoto: seeing sound, hearing time’, on at the MOT until March 30 2025, the interdisciplinary segment of Sakamoto’s oeuvre takes on a monumental dimension by way of a multisensory experience that connects sound, space and time. Encouraging contemplation, lingering and meditation, the immersive retrospective offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the artist’s sound installations and traces his experimental and pioneering journey through landmark pieces as well as previously unseen works conceived shortly before his untimely death in 2023. Photo: Kisa Toyoshima Room-sized artworks explore Sakamoto’s concept of ‘installation music’, under which the artist and his collaborators designed environments for the public to experience sound in physical space. These three-dimensional experiences interact dynamically with the museum’s architecture and highlight Sakamoto’s understanding of technology as an essential tool for making sense of the world as a whole, including the relationship between humans and their environment. An eclectic career – and a lingering influence Born in Tokyo in 1952, Ryuichi Sakamoto’s passion for music began early, inspired by a home rich in art and literature. His love for Debussy an