Shigeru Mizuki, a renowned master of Japanese manga known for singular works such as “GeGeGe no Kitaro,” was captivated by the “Scenes of Hell and Paradise” housed at Shofuku-ji Temple, which he saw during his childhood in Sakaiminato, Tottori Prefecture. This encounter sparked his belief in the invisible world and motivated him to create works about mysterious realms throughout his life.

During World War Two, Mizuki was drafted and sent to the island of New Britain, Papua New Guinea, where he sustained a serious injury in a fierce battle in Rabaul that nearly took his life and resulted in the loss of his left arm. After surviving the war and overcoming extreme poverty, he arrived at his unique manga style. This exhibition is Mizuki’s first major retrospective in Kyushu, showing his creative career through manga manuscripts, original drawings, favorite tools, and various archival footage. It has toured nationwide from 2017 across nine locations, leaving a strong impression on people of all ages.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Mizuki’s passing and the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. How might Mizuki’s wondrous world, shaped by his curiosity, insight, and detailed artistry, inspire us in the modern age? We invite you to visit the exhibition and experience it.

【Sponsors】

Kagoshima Prefecture Cultural Foundation / Minami-Nippon Shimbun / Kagoshima Television Station Co., Ltd. / Minaminihon Broadcasting Company Co., Ltd.

【Co-sponsors】

NHK Kagoshima Broadcasting Station/ NHK Enterprises Inc, Kyushu

【In cooperation with】

Yūsui Township / Kirishima-sanroku Yūsui Town Tourism Association / Kagoshima Daiichi Kotsu / Ankusu Corporation

【Special Sponsorship】

TOYOTA COROLLA KAGOSHIMA

【Planning Support】

Mizuki Productions

【Production Support】

NHK Promotins Inc.

【Program】

1. Opening ceremony & gallery talk by Naoko Haraguchi (eldest daughter of Shigeru Mizuki): Thursday, July 10, 14:00 –
2. Special gallery talk by Naoko Haraguchi: Sunday, August 31, 14:00 –
3. Gallery talk by the museum’s curator: Sundays, July 20, August 10, September 14, 14:00 –

*Details of the events will be posted on this website as soon as fixed.