HAKODATE ART EXHIBITION 2026 Vol.3 “Old Town”

Event Overview

HAKODATE ART EXHIBITION 2026 Vol.3 “Old Town” is a mobile art event set in the Hakodate Seibu District (Old Town), an area where Western culture blends with a nostalgic atmosphere. The event is produced by TERU, the vocalist of the famous Japanese rock band GLAY.

The venue features historic buildings and beautiful streetscapes. This exhibition allows you to rediscover the charm of the city through installations that treat entire spaces as art, photography exhibitions by Hakodate-born photographers, and the fusion of poetry and calligraphy within important cultural properties. Visitors can experience art from different perspectives while moving between venues via the local streetcar.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest charm of this event is the diverse range of expressions across three distinct venues:

1. Odajima Suisan Food: Installation Art

Experience an installation produced by TERU. This includes a Hakodate version of the popular "Character Exhibition" from Shibuya, Tokyo, and works themed around "Lines," turning the space itself into a piece of art.

2. TSU@THE TABLE GALLERY: Photography & Local Art

Featuring photography by Hakodatese photographers, including Yusuke Oishi, Yusuke Baba, Takayuki Koike, and Kosutarou, as well as GLAY bassist JIRO. The second floor also hosts a warm, tactile exhibition of works by local calligraphers and kindergarten children themed around "Thread."

3. Tachikawa Family Residence/Store: Sensory Experience

Set against a backdrop of an Important Cultural Property, this venue offers a sensory experience. It features calligraphy by Akiko Sasaki, based on poems written by GLAY's main composer TAKURO. Additionally, enjoy a limited-edition Matcha Cafe in collaboration with the popular "HAKODATE MATCHA STAND" and DJ sets by artist Azumi, blending music, food, and historic architecture.

Schedule

The event will be held during the following period:

• August 1, 2026 (Sat) – August 11, 2026 (Tue)

Please check the specific information for each venue regarding exhibition details and DJ schedules closer to the event date.

Venues & Access

The event takes place at multiple locations within the Hakodate Seibu District (Old Town).

It is recommended to travel between venues by walking or using public transportation such as the Hakodate City Tram.

Tips for Visitors

This is a "mobile-style" event where you move between different locations. Rather than visiting all at once, we recommend tailoring your visit to each venue's unique characteristics—such as timing your visit to enjoy the limited Matcha or a DJ set.

As many exhibits are space-based installations, we encourage you to feel the unique atmosphere of each venue. At the photography exhibition, you can discover new facets of the city through the lens of local artists.

Essentials & Etiquette

• *Payment**: Please prepare cash (Japanese Yen) for food, drinks at the Matcha Cafe, or merchandise. Credit card availability varies by venue.
• *Language Support**: English support depends on the specific venue; no official English support is guaranteed unless announced.
• *Reservations**: No reservation is required for basic entry, but please check specific venue info for special events or dining.
• *Clothing**: Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended as you will be walking through the historic streets between venues.
• *Manners**: Please show respect for the historic buildings and handle all artworks (photographs, calligraphy, etc.) with care.