Special Exhibition: Song-Yuan Buddhist Paintings — ‘Beyond the Azure Sea’ at Kyoto National Museum
September 20, 2025 – November 16, 2025
Journey through time and artistry at the Kyoto National Museum with an exhibition showcasing Song- and Yuan-dynasty Buddhist paintings — on display from autumn through mid-November 2025.
From September 20 to November 16, 2025, the Kyoto National Museum will host Song-Yuan Buddhist Paintings: Beyond the Azure Sea. This exhibition gathers Song and Yuan dynasty Buddhist paintings held in domestic collections, exploring their regional origins, styles, and influence on Japanese art.
The exhibition is in two phases:
- First period: September 20 − October 19
- Second period: October 21 − November 16
Opening hours are 9:30-17:00 (last entry at 16:30), with late hours on Fridays until 20:00 (entry until 19:30). The museum is closed on most Mondays, except certain holidays; some works will be rotated during the show.
Event Details
| Venue | Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishinkan Pavilion |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | September 20, 2025 – November 16, 2025 Open: 9:30-17:00 (final entry 16:30). Fridays: open until 20:00 (last entry 19:30). Closed Mondays (except October 13 & November 3 which are holidays), and the day after those holidays. Exhibits are in two phases: First Sept 20-Oct 19; Second Oct 21-Nov 16. Some works will be rotated/exchanged during the exhibition. |
| Address | Kyoto National Museum 527 Chayacho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan |
| Admission | Adults: ¥2,000 (Advance ¥1,800) University students: ¥1,200 (Advance ¥1,000) High school students: ¥700 (Advance ¥500) Junior high / younger: Free Group rates for 20+ people. Persons with disabilities and one caregiver free (proof required). Some discounts apply for campus members, etc. |
| Notes | Two exhibition periods. Exhibition time rotations. Admission last entry times as listed. Payment methods may include advance tickets. Check official site for latest info. |