Leeds Museums and Galleries is taking visitors on a 5,000 mile trip to the land of the rising sun with a new exhibition that explores three centuries of Japan’s unique culture, from Samurai swords to Pokémon.
The exhibition, called Making Japan, which is on display at Lotherton Hall, looks at the contrast between Japan’s history, its natural beauty and bustling industries.
It will give visitors the chance to see a collection of objects including a beautiful illustrated handscroll, a traditional kimono and intricately decorated ceramics.
They will be on display alongside examples of the country’s modern culture, including J-Pop music and Manga comics as well as items related to Japan’s traditions of religion, celebration, arts and craft, and food.
Members of the Japanese community in Yorkshire have loaned some of the items which will be on display.
But there’s also a special link between Japan and Lotherton Hall. Former estate owner, Sir Alvary Gascoigne, was once the British Ambassador to Japan and some of the objects acquired during his time in Japan will be on display at the exhibition.
Adam Jaffer, Leeds Museums and Galleries curator of world cultures, said: “Japan is known as a country of contrast, where centuries of history and tradition work alongside cutting edge industry, innovation and modern technology.
Through this exhibition, we will look at how Japanese culture has become part of the Lotherton story and why this fascinating country is such an enchanting place.”
Making Japan will be at Lotherton until October 18, which will also coincide with the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. A series of events and workshops will be taking place as part of the exhibition. For more information visit: https://news.leeds.gov.uk/estate-takes-visitors-on-a-journey-to-japan/