de Young Museum to Host First Major North American Manga Exhibition

The de Young Museum in San Francisco is set to host "Art of Manga," the first large-scale North American exhibition dedicated to Japanese manga art, from September 27, 2025, to January 25, 2026. This groundbreaking exhibition will feature over 700 original drawings by ten prominent manga artists, including Hirohiko Araki ("JoJo's Bizarre Adventure"), Eiichiro Oda ("One Piece"), and Rumiko Takahashi ("Inuyasha").

"Art of Manga" aims to explore the evolution of manga from the 1970s to the present, highlighting its impact on global culture and its role in addressing themes such as friendship, sexuality, and the human condition. The exhibition will also include an accompanying display titled "How Manga is Made: ONE PIECE ONLY," providing insight into the creative process behind Oda's "One Piece" series.

Thomas P. Campbell, Director and CEO of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, emphasized the significance of this exhibition, stating, "San Francisco has long been a gateway for Japanese cultural exchange in the United States, and we are delighted to honor this legacy by showcasing the artistry and power of contemporary Japanese narrative art in 'Art of Manga.'"

In addition to the exhibition, the de Young Museum will host on-site activations such as cosplay meetups on select Saturdays, embracing the vibrant fan culture associated with manga. The museum has also implemented a "cosplay policy" to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Tickets for the exhibition went on sale on July 2, 2025, through the museum's official website. Pricing details have yet to be announced, though base admission to the museum costs $20, with additional charges for special exhibitions.

While manga exhibitions have been held in the U.S. before, such as the "Journey through Japan: Myths to Manga" at the Frist Art Museum in Nashville (October 25, 2024 – February 16, 2025), the "Art of Manga" at the de Young Museum is distinguished by its scale and focus on original artworks from multiple renowned artists.

The "Art of Manga" exhibition signifies a recognition of manga's artistic and cultural significance, bridging Eastern and Western art forms. By hosting this exhibition, the de Young Museum acknowledges the growing appreciation and influence of Japanese narrative art in the United States.

San Francisco has a longstanding history of cultural exchange with Japan. In 1860, the ship Kanrin Maru brought Japan's first delegation to the city. The 1894 Midwinter International Exposition, organized by M.H. de Young, featured a Japanese cultural area, introducing Japanese arts and crafts to the American public. The Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park remains a testament to this exposition. In 1951, preceding the Treaty of San Francisco, the de Young Museum hosted an exhibition of Japanese treasures arranged by the Japanese government. The "Art of Manga" exhibition continues this legacy of cultural exchange and appreciation.

The exhibition will showcase works from 11 notable manga artists, including:

• Araki Hirohiko ("JoJo's Bizarre Adventure")
• Oda Eiichiro ("One Piece")
• Takahashi Rumiko ("Inuyasha")
• Taniguchi Jiro ("The Walking Man")
• Tagame Gengoroh ("My Brother’s Husband")
• Yamashita Kazumi ("LAND")
• Yamazaki Mari
• Yoshinaga Fumi
• Akatsuka Fujio
• Chiba Tetsuya
• Tanaami Keiichi

The "Art of Manga" exhibition at the de Young Museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and cultural significance of manga. By bringing together original works from some of the most influential manga artists, the exhibition provides an in-depth look at the evolution of this art form and its impact on global culture.