Isao Takahata Exhibition

Discover the life and works of a man considered to be one of the fathers of Japanese animation. With his hand in everything from early animation to Ghibli masterpieces, the Isao Takahata Exhibition is a must-see for any animation fan.

What to expect

Isao Takahata was a Japanese animator born in 1935. Having spent his career working with names like Toei Animation and Studio Ghibli, he was one of the leading figures who helped Japanese animation spread across the world.

On display is a comprehensive look at the full creative process behind Takahata’s most iconic works, including sketches, timelines, and character development arcs — all the more impressive if you consider that this was done way before CGI and artificial intelligence in animation.

Through cells, extensive notes, and video interviews, you’ll see that Takahata spared no effort when it came to refining his animations. The goal? To move and inspire his audiences, which his works continue to do to this day.

Highlights

Having grown up watching Heidi, Girl of the Alps on television, this writer found one of the most compelling aspects of the exhibition was the opportunity to observe the extensive concept drawings.

Equally striking were the color tests for Grave of the Fireflies, a moving masterpiece adored since its release, which revealed the extraordinary care and precision that went into each frame. The display, with the museum walls going from white to black, felt especially poignant as 2025 marks 80 years since the end of the Pacific War.

Cafe and Museum Shop

On a cheerier note, the collaboration cafe, located right outside as you exit the exhibition, offers delightful references to Takahata’s works in edible form. Taking the magic of Takahata beyond the four walls of the museum, you can eat panda-shaped curry rice (¥2,700) and sip on a drink infused with pastel-toned hard candies (¥980), among other creations.

Amble over to the souvenir shop for exhibition-exclusive goods including postcards, folders, and book covers — look for the red mark on the price tag to confirm that it’s only available here. (Other items may be available elsewhere, such as the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka.)

Tickets

Tickets for the exhibition are ¥2,000 for adults, ¥1,700 for university and high school students, and ¥1,400 for kids.

How to get there

The event will be held at the Azabudai Hills Gallery, located within the Mori Tower in the Azabudai Hills complex. You can get there by taking the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Kamiyachō Station, from where it’s a 5-minute walk.