An exhibition of the popular picture book author Yoshitake Shinsuke, “Yoshitake Shinsuke Exhibition Might Be a Lots More Type,” is currently being held at the CREATIVE MUSEUM TOKYO, a museum in the TODA BUILDING, a skyscraper complex in Kyobashi, Tokyo, until June 3, 2025 (Tue.).

The “Yoshitake Shinsuke Exhibition May be” opened in Tokyo in April 2022 and traveled around Japan, attracting more than 700,000 visitors nationwide. Due to the great response, the exhibition will be held again with “plenty” of original picture book drawings, sketches, and original exhibition goods.

The exhibition will feature a large number of sketches Yoshitake made over the years by observing events around him and drawing them in a small notebook, as well as sketches of his ideas for picture books, rough sketches, and original drawings. The exhibition also includes his beloved collection, which was the source of inspiration for his work, and provides a glimpse into Yoshitake’s “inside the head” from various angles.

Reproductions of sketches on display. Exhibition view at Setagaya Literature Museum ©Shinsuke Yoshitake

In particular, more than 7,500 reproductions of sketches will be on display at the Tokyo venue, the largest ever, compared to approximately 2,500 at the previous touring venues. The wall of sketches displayed all in one place is a spectacular sight.

Sketches for new exhibits at the Tokyo venue ©Shinsuke Yoshitake

A large forest also appears in the venue. By holding onto a fishing ring, visitors can experience a line from the picture book, “If you are tired of being an adult, you can remove the soles of feet from the ground” (Hakusensha).

Other attractions such as throwing apples at noisy adults, and soft paths and spiky chairs that give visitors a taste of heaven and hell, are also scattered throughout the park, all designed by Yoshitake.

Chiisana Kami-sama 3960 yen (tax included)

New exhibition original goods also joined the lineup. A variety of items are available, including a soft vinyl of “Chiisana Kami-sama,” a tiny god who specializes in making wishes, and apple-flavored caramels that allow you to create your own spells by rolling three dice.

After the Tokyo Triennial, the exhibition is scheduled to tour to Akita, Ehime, Kochi, Yamaguchi, Kagoshima, and other locations. Please check the official website for details.

TOP IMAGE: Tokyo venue main visual