Edo-Tokyo Museum Renewal Commemorative Special Exhibition: 'Western-Style Buildings: Dreams and Challenges of the Meiji Era'

About this event

This special exhibition focuses on the Meiji era, a major turning point in the history of Japanese architecture. It depicts how Western-style architecture spread rapidly along with the influx of Western culture during the transition from Edo to Meiji. From pseudo-Western style architecture (Giyofu) built by master carpenters to authentic Western architecture by foreign engineers and architects, challenges undertaken by Japanese architects, and magnificent residences for the imperial family and upper class, this exhibition introduces the diverse world woven by Meiji-era Western-style buildings through abundant materials and three-dimensional exhibition methods. It is an exhibition that conveys the breath of civilization and enlightenment (Bunmei Kaika), allowing visitors to experience the surprise and excitement people of that time must have felt through National Treasures, Important Cultural Properties, and materials displayed in Japan for the first time.

Venue

Edo-Tokyo Museum

1-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0015