Taito City
Lecture & Culture
2026.10.14–12.06
700th Anniversary Commemorative Special Exhibition 'Daitokuji: Japan's Unrivaled Zen Monastery'
700th Anniversary Commemorative Special Exhibition 「大徳寺 本朝無双之禅苑」
The special exhibition 「大徳寺 本朝無双之禅苑」, commemorating the 700th anniversary of 大徳寺 in Murasakino, Kyoto, will be held at the Heiseikan, Tokyo National Museum.
Since its founding in 1326, 大徳寺 has developed through deep connections with generations of eminent monks, emperors, Sengoku warlords, and tea masters. This exhibition brings together the temple treasures from within the 大徳寺 precincts, including its sub-temples and temples of the 大徳寺 school, to present 700 years of history and culture.
Highlights of the Exhibition
14 National Treasures and 69 Important Cultural Properties on display
It has been 41 years since an exhibition bringing together the treasures of 大徳寺 was last held, and this is the first time in Tokyo.
Invaluable works that convey the history of Zen and art will be exhibited, including the National Treasure 「観音猿鶴図」, the Important Cultural Property 「龍虎図」, and the National Treasure 「看読真詮榜」 by 宗峰妙超.
Some works will be rotated between the first and second halves. The first half runs from Wednesday, October 14 to Sunday, November 8, and the second half runs from Tuesday, November 10 to Sunday, December 6.
Recreated display of the Sanmon, usually closed to the public
The venue will feature a recreated display of the Sanmon at 大徳寺, which is usually not open to the public.
The principal image 「釈迦如来坐像」 enshrined in the Sanmon and the first-time public display 「千利休立像」 will also be exhibited throughout. This display allows visitors to feel the connections between 大徳寺, Zen, and the tea ceremony.
Figures connected to 大徳寺 and 700 years of history
Works related to figures closely connected to 大徳寺, such as 一休宗純、後醍醐天皇、織田信長、豊臣秀吉, will also be introduced.
Through the faith and involvement that successive eminent monks, rulers, and tea masters placed in 大徳寺, you can trace the history of Japanese Zen culture.
Recommended for
This exhibition is recommended not only for those interested in Zen and Japanese art, but also for those interested in Kyoto’s temple culture and the history of the tea ceremony.
At the Tokyo National Museum, why not experience the 700 years of beauty and spirit that Daitoku-ji has passed down?
※ Exhibited works, exhibition periods, opening hours, closing days, and admission procedures may change. Please check the official website for the latest information before your visit.
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