The 119th Nitten Exhibition, one of Japan’s largest open-call art exhibitions, is taking place at The National Art Center, Tokyo, in Roppongi from October 30 to November 22, 2026.
Featuring approximately 3,000 works across five categories—Nihonga (Japanese-style painting), Yōga (Western-style painting), sculpture, crafts and calligraphy—Nitten is one of Japan’s most established art exhibitions.
The exhibition brings together works that preserve traditional techniques alongside those reflecting the perspectives of contemporary artists, offering visitors a broad view of Japanese art.
Over 100 Years of Japanese Art History
Nitten traces its origins to Bunten, a government-sponsored art exhibition first held in 1907 under Japan’s Ministry of Education.
Over the years, the exhibition has undergone several changes in name and organization while remaining an important part of Japan’s art scene.
Today, Nitten covers five disciplines, each with its own traditions and approaches.
Visitors will find the delicate brushwork of Nihonga, the rich colors of Yōga, sculpture and crafts made from a variety of materials, and calligraphy that transforms written characters into works of art.
Together, these five categories reflect both Japan’s artistic heritage and the individual styles of artists working today.
Find Your Favorite Among 3,000 Works of Art
Nitten features works selected through a nationwide open competition, alongside pieces by Nitten members and award-winning artists.
The participating artists span several generations, from teenagers to centenarians.
Even within the same category, subjects, colors and techniques vary widely from one artist to another. Comparing these different approaches is part of what makes the exhibition interesting.
This year also sees the introduction of the Mio Award, a new prize recognizing promising artists whose works have been accepted through the open competition. It is one way Nitten continues to encourage emerging talent while maintaining its long-established traditions.
You don’t need to be an art expert to enjoy Nitten. Take your time, stop at works that catch your eye and look closely at the details.
With around 3,000 works on display, there is plenty to discover.
Enjoy Art, Architecture and a Stroll Through Roppongi
The National Art Center, Tokyo, is worth visiting for its architecture alone. Designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, the building is known for its distinctive wave-shaped glass facade.
Inside, the spacious, light-filled galleries are complemented by cafes, a French restaurant and a museum shop, making it easy to take a break between exhibitions.
There is also plenty to see and do in the surrounding Roppongi neighborhood.
Tokyo Midtown, just a short walk from the museum, offers a range of restaurants, shops and landscaped gardens. Nearby is 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT, designed by architect Tadao Ando, which hosts exhibitions exploring design and creative ideas.
After visiting Nitten, you can stop for lunch or coffee, browse the shops or explore some of the area’s other art and design destinations.
It’s an easy way to spend an autumn day in Roppongi, combining Japanese art with a little time in the neighborhood.
The 119th Nitten Exhibition
Dates: October 30 (Fri.) – November 22 (Sun.), 2026
Closed: November 4 (Wed.), 10 (Tue.) and 17 (Tue.)
Hours: 10am – 6pm (Last admission at 5:30pm)
Venue: The National Art Center, Tokyo
Address: 7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access:
Direct access from Exit 6 of Nogizaka Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Exit 4a of Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
Approximately 4 minutes on foot from Exit 7 of Roppongi Station (Toei Oedo Line)
Admission: Adults ¥1,500 / University students and younger: Free
Twilight Ticket: ¥700 after 4pm
Official Website: https://nitten.or.jp/
*Following the Tokyo exhibition, Nitten is scheduled to travel to Kyoto, Nagoya, Osaka and Toyama.
J SELECT Reader Giveaway
Win a Pair of Tickets to the 119th Nitten Exhibition!
J SELECT is giving away pairs of complimentary tickets to the 119th Nitten Exhibition to 10 lucky winners (20 tickets in total).
Enter for your chance to visit the exhibition.
Entry Deadline: November 10 (Tue.), 2026
Enter Here
To enter, please click the link above and send us an email with the following information.
Subject: Nitten Reader Giveaway
Required Information:
Full Name
Mailing Address
Mobile Phone Number
*Winners will be notified through the delivery of their tickets.
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