A major retrospective exhibition honoring the legacy of legendary director Isao Takahata is now open at Azabudai Hills Gallery in Tokyo. Titled “Isao Takahata: The Man Who Made Japanese Animation,” the exhibition runs from June 27 to September 15, 2025, and coincides with the 90th anniversary of Takahata’s birth and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II — a conflict that deeply shaped his work.
An opening ceremony held on June 26 welcomed Takahata’s family members, including his widow, Kayoko Takahata, and son, Kosuke Takahata. Special guest Hikari Ota, comedian and longtime admirer of Takahata’s films, appeared alongside filmmaker Shunji Iwai, who serves as the exhibition’s official supporter.
The exhibition explores Takahata’s artistic trajectory through rare production materials such as original storyboards, hand-drawn animation cels, and never-before-seen concept art. Works on display span his career, from early titles like The Little Norse Prince Valiant (1968) to seminal classics including Grave of the Fireflies, Pom Poko, and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya.
A key highlight is a newly discovered harmony cel of the warship Maya from Grave of the Fireflies, based on original layouts drawn by Hideaki Anno, who worked on the film as an animator before gaining renown as the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion. The cel is being publicly exhibited for the first time.
Speaking at the opening, Kosuke Takahata reflected on the exhibition’s conception: “This project began while my father was still alive. The idea was to examine the creative and philosophical background of his work, as well as the art that influenced him. Though he didn’t live to see it completed, we’ve transformed it into a chronological retrospective that has now reached audiences worldwide — something that brings both surprise and pride to our family.”
Hikari Ota, reflecting on Takahata’s influence, described him as “gentle in conversation, but relentless when it came to animation.” He added, “The way he approached movement and facial expression showed just how uncompromising he was in his work.” Shunji Iwai, who met Takahata while still in university, recalled being firmly challenged by the director during a formative discussion on filmmaking. “It was the only time in my life a senior in the field spoke to me like that,” Iwai said. “I’ve carried his words with me ever since.”
When asked about their favorite works, Ota cited My Neighbors the Yamadas and expressed admiration for how The Tale of the Princess Kaguya built on its artistic foundation. Iwai highlighted The Little Norse Prince Valiant as a transformative viewing experience during his youth, praising its technical brilliance and thematic depth.
A special section of the exhibition is dedicated to Grave of the Fireflies, with new contextual displays marking the wartime legacy of the film. Ota emphasized the complexity of its message, stating, “Takahata never intended it to be simply anti-war. He wanted audiences to understand the human tragedy without reducing it to slogans.”
Additional features include a recreation of the mandala backdrops from Pom Poko, interactive displays, and a themed photo spot inspired by Panda! Go, Panda! Visitors can also enjoy exclusive food items at the on-site café, such as the King Ghidorah-inspired art parfait and latte, launching July 1.
Event Details
・Title: Isao Takahata: The Man Who Made Japanese Animation
・Dates: June 27 – September 15, 2025
・Venue: Azabudai Hills Gallery (Garden Plaza A, MB Floor, Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
・Opening Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 (last entry at 19:30)
Note: On Tuesdays and Sundays from June 27 to July 18, closing time is 17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
・Admission: General ¥2,000 (variable by category)
・Advance reservations are recommended due to expected demand. Same-day tickets may be limited.
Official Website & Contacts
Website: https://www.azabudai-hills.com/azabudaihillsgallery/sp/isaotakahata-ex
Instagram: @azabudaihillsgallery
TikTok: @azabudaihills_gallery
X (formerly Twitter): @ah__gallery
Inquiries (Media): takahata-ex@toho-marketing.jp | movie@wrightfilm.co.jp
This landmark exhibition offers a rare opportunity to revisit the legacy of a visionary director whose uncompromising approach to storytelling forever transformed the landscape of animated cinema.
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