A captivating exhibition celebrating the art of miniature dollhouses will open at Kanazawa 21st Century Museum on September 12, 2025. The show brings together renowned Japanese artists and traces the fascinating evolution of dollhouse culture from its European origins to contemporary artistic expressions.
Dollhouses originated in Europe as aristocratic collections and educational toys, eventually spreading as children's playthings. Japan has long developed its own unique miniature culture through hina dolls, miniature books, and Edo-period small crafts. After dollhouses were introduced in the 1970s, they gradually gained attention as artistic works by creators.
The exhibition showcases the delicate and profound world of miniatures created by leading Japanese artists. From antique-inspired works to innovative cutting-edge dollhouses, European and Japanese dollhouses spanning different eras will be displayed together. Visitors can explore the history of Japanese dollhouses and experience their charm and evolution firsthand.
Exhibition Details
Dates: September 12 (Friday) - October 13 (Monday, Holiday), 2025
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Final day closes at 3:00 PM) Entry allowed until 30 minutes before closing
Location: Kanazawa 21st Century Museum, Citizens' Gallery B (1-2-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City)
Featured Artists & Collectors
Koichi Obata - Video Technology Pioneer
Working with the theme of "light and shadow," Obata expresses the front and back of phenomena through miniature works. Incorporating cutting-edge technology, his innovative pieces create immersive experiences where video collaborates seamlessly with physical artworks. His warm, inviting style is well received, and he also creates works for museum exhibits.
Tawaraya Honten
Kazuyo Kudo - Antique-Style Specialist
Kudo creates distinctive dollhouse worlds with careful attention to antique materials and colors. Since 2016, she has gained recognition for reimagining Sylvanian Families figures in her signature antique style. Her work extends beyond exhibitions to book illustrations and television productions.
The Flow of Time
Sachiko Kinoshita (Director of Atelier Alice) - Romantic Storyteller
Through delicate handicraft and a distinctive artistic vision, Kinoshita creates miniature worlds that tell compelling stories. Her realistic and romantic dollhouses have captivated audiences at museums and exhibitions nationwide, earning her a dedicated following.
Favorite Room
Miyuki Kobayashi - Aquatic Miniature Specialist
Kobayashi has gained international recognition for her exquisite miniature works featuring goldfish and ornamental fish. Her pieces balance remarkable realism with artistic beauty. She regularly exhibits in prestigious shows including the "Goldfish Bisho" exhibition and teaches at the International Guild of Miniature Artisans (IGMA) School.
BAR AQUA
Hiroyuki Kimura (Hiroyuki & Kyoko) - Cultural Bridge Builder
Kimura is deeply knowledgeable about Japanese-style miniatures and Western dollhouse culture, and has produced many works in Western styles. In particular, pieces that incorporate traditional Western architectural styles and interiors are highly regarded for their meticulous fidelity and exquisite finish.
Antique Shop
Kyoko Miumi (Hiroyuki & Kyoko) - Master of Botanical Miniatures
Working alongside her husband as "Hiroyuki & Kyoko," Miumi specializes in creating incredibly delicate miniature plants and Japanese-style scenic works. Her exceptional technique and artistry have earned international acclaim through exhibitions across the globe.
Country Blue
Yoichi Sato - European Antique Collector
Sato has assembled an impressive collection of antique dollhouses from across Europe, including pieces from Britain, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Austria, Czech Republic, and France. His collection features numerous works of significant historical value.
Haskell House
Special Exhibition: Hiroshi Miura
Additional Artists: Reiko Tsuda, Rika Sato, and others
Visitor Information
Admission Fees:
- Adults: 1,200 yen (900 yen advance)
- High School & University Students: 700 yen (advance price)
- Elementary & Middle School Students: 700 yen (500 yen advance)
- Preschool children: Free admission
Special Discounts:
- Visitors with disability certificates receive advance pricing (one companion admitted free)
- Premium Passport holders: 100 yen discount from adult admission
- Seniors (65+): 100 yen weekday discount (Monday-Friday, holidays excluded)
Tickets Available At: Major outlets include Chunichi Service Center, Ishikawa Prefectural Concert Hall Ticket Box, Korinbo Daiwa Playguide, Apita Matto Tio, Utsunomiya stores, Kanazawa Chunichi Culture Center, plus online platforms including Lawson Ticket (L-code 55742), Pia (P-code 687-265), Seven Ticket, and e-plus. Advance tickets sold until September 11.
Cross-Exhibition Discount: Present tickets from "Hokusai & Hiroshige Great Ukiyo-e Exhibition" (Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art) or "Lucie Rie Exhibition" (National Museum of Modern Art, Crafts Gallery) for 100 yen off same-day admission.
Special Events
Opening Day Artist Commentary September 12 (Friday) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Meet the participating artists and learn about their creative processes directly from the creators.
Artist Merchandise Limited works and exclusive items by participating artists will be available at the venue's retail corner. Early arrival recommended for one-of-a-kind pieces.
More Information: https://www.hokuchu-event.com/pickup/miniature-dollhouse2025/
