An exhibition event commemorating the achievements and personality of poet Shuntaro Tanikawa, titled "Thank you, Shuntaro Tanikawa," will begin on May 30, 2025 at Hobonichi Sunday on the 8th floor of Shibuya PARCO. The event is being organized by Hobonichi Co., Ltd.

Since publishing his first poetry collection, "Two Billion Light Years of Solitude," in 1952, Shuntaro Tanikawa has conveyed the power of words to many people, from children to adults, through poems and picture books such as "Morning Relay" and "Living." He passed away on November 13, 2024, at the age of 92, due to old age.

The exhibition features poems, photographs, memorabilia, and selected poems and messages by writers and artists who were close to Tanigawa during his lifetime. The judges include a diverse group of people, including Sawako Agawa, Junaida, Machi Tawara, Remi Hirano, Mariko Mikuni, Akiko Yano, Banana Yoshimoto, and Mari Watanabe.

Tanigawa-san appears as a model wearing a sweater featured in the book "Happy Sweater"

Tanigawa has a deep connection with Hobonichi, appearing on the site more than 30 times between 2000 and 2024. She appeared as a model wearing a sweater in knitwear designer Mikuni Mariko's book "Happy Sweater." In this exhibition, that sweater will be exhibited with the cooperation of her family. In addition, some of the original illustrations from the picture book "Kanai-kun," which was planned by Itoi Shigesato and was written by Tanigawa in one night and illustrated by Matsumoto Taiyo over the course of two years, will also be unveiled.

There will also be a corner where visitors can write messages to Tanikawa, including poems of memories and words of gratitude. Among the hundreds of Tanikawa's books, those that are currently available for purchase will be sold at the venue. Customers who spend 1,500 yen or more (tax included) will receive a keychain by Nanae Eda, who illustrated "Tanikawa Shuntaro Question Box" (limited quantity).

Keychain of Shuntaro Tanikawa illustrated by Nanae Eda (limited quantity)

In addition to poetry, Tanikawa Shuntaro is also involved in a wide range of creative activities, including picture books, translations, and songwriting. He is also widely known for his translations of the theme song for "Astro Boy" and the "Swimmy" and "PEANUTS" series. This exhibition will once again provide a place to pick up the words that Tanikawa Shuntaro has spun and feel their presence once again. Why not spend some time quietly savoring the world that the poet left behind?

Admission is free and the exhibition runs until July 13th.

Venue