Guida
The Kitakyushu Manga Museum, located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, opened in 2012 to promote the charm of manga culture both domestically and internationally. Kitakyushu has a rich history of cultural exchange driven by its industrial development since the Meiji era, which has produced world-famous manga artists such as Leiji Matsumoto, Seizo Watase, and Tsukasa Hojo. The museum plays a vital role in collecting, preserving, and passing down these precious original drawings and materials to future generations.
The museum is structured around three core themes: "See," "Read," and "Draw." This allows visitors to do much more than just look at exhibits; they can actually touch the medium and gain a deep understanding of the mechanics and expression techniques of manga. With over 1 million cumulative visitors, it is a highly respected cultural landmark.
The history of Kitakyushu is deeply tied to the international trade and industrial growth of the Moji Port area, which fostered a melting pot of diverse cultures. This fertile ground became the breeding ground for many exceptional manga artists. Since its opening on August 3, 2012, the museum has been symbolized by its honorary directors, starting with Leiji Matsumoto and later Seizo Watase, deeply connecting the institution to the local community. Manga is more than just entertainment; it is a medium that fosters imagination and expression through the combination of text and imagery, and this facility serves as a place to research and preserve that value.
The core of the exhibition is the display of precious original drawings by artists associated with Kitakyushu. In the permanent exhibition, you can learn about the history of manga, its unique expression techniques, and the "mechanics of manga"—how it is produced and distributed to readers. Additionally, the "Reading Zone" houses approximately 70,000 manga volumes, allowing you to freely browse everything from classic masterpieces to modern hits (Note: borrowing is not permitted).
Special exhibitions are also a major draw. These rotating displays focus on specific artists or incorporate the latest trends, ensuring that every visit offers a new discovery.
The museum is open from 11:00 to 19:00, making it ideal to visit in the afternoon for a relaxed viewing experience. Certain periods feature special "Manga Experience" events or "Manga Schools." These are typically held about twice a month, so it is highly recommended to check the official website or social media for the event schedule before your visit.
A standout feature of the museum is its interactive content. During the bi-monthly "Manga Experience" events, even beginners can experience the process of manga creation—such as tracing or coloring—using professional tools. For those seeking a more serious study, the "Manga School" features professional manga artists as instructors.
Furthermore, "Gallery Talks" led by curators are held a few times a year to provide deeper insights into the exhibits. The museum also hosts "Manga Reading Groups" on the third Friday of odd-numbered months, where participants can discuss their favorite works.
The museum is located on the 5th and 6th floors of the "Aruaru City" commercial complex. This makes it very convenient to visit a cafe or shop within the same building to rest after your tour. It is within walking distance of Kokura Station, and the surrounding area is dotted with spots where you can feel the history and culture of Kitakyushu.
As most activities are indoors, standard casual clothing is perfectly fine. However, if you are participating in a "Manga Experience" event, comfortable clothing is recommended. Since the exhibits and materials are extremely precious, please handle them with great care. Please follow all local instructions regarding the handling of manga in the reading zone and photography rules in the exhibition areas.