Japan's rich folklore is stepping into the digital age with the Yokai Immersive Experience Exhibition KAGOSHIMA, an immersive experience that brings centuries-old supernatural legends to life through cutting-edge technology.
Making its Kyushu debut after attracting more than 200,000 visitors in Tokyo and Nagoya, the exhibition transforms traditional depictions of yokai into a vivid, interactive world. Visitors can encounter famous creatures from Japanese folklore, including kappa, tengu, oni, and tsukumogami, as they emerge from historic artwork through projection mapping, holograms, 3DCG animation, and life-sized sculptures.
Held at the Kagoshima Prefectural History and Art Center, Reimeikan, the exhibition draws inspiration from iconic works such as the Hyakki Yagyō Emaki (Night Parade of One Hundred Demons) and the Hyakumonogatari tradition, where ghost stories were once shared to summon the supernatural. Rather than simply displaying these cultural treasures, the exhibition invites visitors to step inside them, creating an experience that is both educational and entertaining.
The event has also partnered with the Nishio City Iwase Library, Japan's first museum dedicated to rare books, and the Yokai Museum on Shodoshima Island to provide historical context alongside the digital installations. Together, they explore how yokai have evolved from ancient myths and Edo-period art into beloved figures that continue to influence modern manga, anime, films, and games.
Designed for visitors of all ages, the exhibition offers a fresh way to discover one of Japan's most fascinating cultural traditions. Whether you're already a fan of Japanese folklore or simply looking for a unique summer outing, it's a chance to experience the mysterious world of yokai like never before.
