Today, the POP UP BOX "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi Exhibition – Once Upon a Time..." opened its doors on its first day at the Azabudai Hills Gallery Space.
First and foremost, we sincerely thank everyone who visited us today.
We were overwhelmed by the incredible number of visitors, far exceeding our expectations.
At the venue, we saw people happily taking photos at the "Ningen tte Iina" photo spot, and others capturing images of the dragon prop actually used in the stage play "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi."
We witnessed families and friends standing before the exhibits, sharing memories with phrases like "I remember this!" or "I watched this as a child."
And we saw parents explaining the stories to their children.
Seeing these scenes throughout the venue made us feel truly grateful that we could hold this event.
After so many years, we are happy to have created a place where we can enjoy "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi" together with you all once again.
Why We Are Delivering "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi" Again Now
This work contains countless stories preserved over a long period, along with precious films and materials that house them.
However, as time passes, films gradually deteriorate.
We are actively working to properly preserve these materials and digitize them one by one to pass them on to the future. We want children of the Reiwa era to see them again.
For those who grew up watching this series, we hope they can relive the nostalgia.
And now, we wish for them to enjoy it together with their own children and grandchildren.
Furthermore, we aim to share these ancient Japanese tales, along with their wisdom and culture, not just within Japan but across the world.
It is with this passion that we are moving forward today.
This event is part of that effort.
To Everyone Who Helped Build This Place
This venue was not built by our strength alone.
We thank the various companies that supported us leading up to the opening.
We thank those who collaborated on the planning through numerous discussions.
We thank the staff who carefully handled the exhibits and constructed the venue.
We thank those who planned, created, and delivered each product to us by today.
And we thank the staff who stood at the venue from morning until night, welcoming so many guests.
Many hands came together to make this day possible. We express our heartfelt gratitude here.
Most importantly, because there were fans who never forgot this work and loved it until today, we were able to start moving again.
Thank you sincerely.
Apology Regarding Day One Operations
On the other hand, we must apologize regarding the operations on the first day.
Due to visitor numbers significantly exceeding our estimates, we had to implement a ticket system. Unfortunately, some customers who traveled to the venue were unable to enter.
We deeply apologize for causing disappointment to those who looked forward to visiting.
We will take today's situation seriously and coordinate with relevant parties to improve operations starting tomorrow, ensuring more people can enjoy the exhibition safely.
Regarding Product Reselling
Although the first day has just ended, we have already confirmed that some products sold at the event are being resold on flea market sites.
We have a request for everyone.
Please do not purchase items being resold at inflated prices.
These products are not merely event merchandise. The profits generated when you purchase official goods directly are reinvested into preserving the films and materials of "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi" for the future.
Buying one item helps protect the work.
It contributes to digitizing a single film.
And it helps deliver these stories to the next generation.
We want to create such a cycle.
In traditional folktales, there are many stories about losing what matters most due to greed.
If someone buys everything up to sell it high, it prevents those who truly want it from getting it.
We do not want such an ending.
Please Wait Patiently
This event will not end here. We plan to bring this exhibition to various locations across Japan.
We want to create opportunities for those who find it difficult to travel to Tokyo to experience the world of "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi."
We are also preparing sales via EC sites so that those who cannot visit the venue can still get their hands on the products.
Depending on the item, we are considering made-to-order production. Therefore, there is absolutely no need to buy expensive resold items.
To those who cherish and love "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi," we want to deliver it to you properly with our own hands.
We accept both the joys and the lessons learned from today, and will use them to move forward starting tomorrow.
Whether you are entering a holiday break or continuing to work, we will do our best to ensure every visitor feels glad they came.
Finally, To Those Who Have Loved This Work for Years.
"Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi" into the next 50 years.
Together with you, we want to preserve these stories for the future.
Thank you very much for a wonderful first day.
Aiki Kaku Center
POP UP BOX "Manga Nippon Mukashibanashi Exhibition – Once Upon a Time..."
Venue: Azabudai Hills Gallery Space
Dates: September 18 (Fri) – October 25 (Sun), 2026
