Dive into the Blue: ‘Ao no Hako’ Manga Exhibition Heads to Osaka!
Experience the electrifying world of youth sports and romance as the hit comic’s first-ever original artwork exhibition makes its highly anticipated stop at Hirakata Park.
The highly popular manga “Ao no Hako” (Blue Box) by Koji Miura, a heartwarming tale of youth, club activities, and romance, is bringing its first-ever original artwork exhibition to Hirakata Park in Osaka. With over 9.4 million copies in circulation, the series has captivated readers since its serialization began in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2021. This “Gensakuten” (original artwork exhibition) offers a unique opportunity to delve into the “blue” world of its characters and story.
Exhibition Details and Highlights
The “Ao no Hako Exhibition” will run from Saturday, March 7, 2026, to Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Event Hall I within Hirakata Park. Please note that the exhibition will be closed on Thursday, March 12.
Operating Hours:
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Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM)
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Weekends: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last admission 5:30 PM)
The exhibition will showcase approximately 200 items, including both Koji Miura’s delicate handwritten manuscripts and the digitally finished completed works. This dual display provides a rare glimpse into the manga creation process, from the initial analog drawings to the final digital touches. Visitors can explore nine distinct areas, each dedicated to episodes from Jump Comics Volumes 1 to 17, reliving key moments of the protagonists’ emotions, struggles, and growth.
Adding to the immersive experience, an original video featuring the song “Toriaezu Ima wa” (For Now) specially written by the four-member band Galileo Galilei for the “Ao no Hako Exhibition” will be screened. This blend of visual art and music promises to evoke the vibrant spirit of the series.
Exclusive Merchandise and Admission Perks
Visitors to the Osaka venue will have the chance to acquire new, heartwarming items that capture the essence of “Ao no Hako.” Over 15 new products will be available, including acrylic stands featuring the cheerful smiles of Taiki and Chinatsu, specifically drawn for this exhibition, and sticker sets showcasing various character expressions.
Popular items from the Tokyo venue, such as clear files, acrylic keyholders, postcards, towels, and T-shirts, will also continue to be sold. As a special admission perk, attendees will receive an original postcard adorned with illustrations that encapsulate the characters’ youthful journey. Fans will surely want to collect these charming mementos!
Admission Fees:
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With Goods: 3,500 yen
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General/University Students: 1,800 yen
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High School/Junior High Students: 1,300 yen
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Elementary School Students: 800 yen
It is important to note that entry to the exhibition does not require admission to Hirakata Park itself. For more information, please visit the official website: https://aonohako-exhibition.com/
About “Ao no Hako”
“Ao no Hako” is a highly popular manga by Koji Miura, serialized in “Weekly Shonen Jump” (Shueisha) since 2021. The story unfolds at Eimei Gakuen, an integrated junior and senior high school renowned for its sports programs. Taiki Inomata, a member of the boys’ badminton club, finds himself falling for Chinatsu Kano, a senior from the girls’ basketball club, whom he sees every morning during practice. Their distance dramatically changes with the arrival of a new school year. The series masterfully blends the exhilaration of sports, where characters push each other to excel, with the heartwarming flutter of youthful romance, creating a captivating coming-of-age love story.
The Future of Immersive Manga Experiences
The “Ao no Hako Exhibition” represents a growing trend in Japan to bring manga to life through immersive experiences, allowing fans to connect with their favorite stories on a deeper level. By showcasing original artwork and offering exclusive goods, these exhibitions not only celebrate the creators’ craft but also foster a stronger sense of community among fans. This approach undoubtedly contributes to the global appreciation of Japanese manga, offering new ways for international audiences to engage with and understand the rich narratives and artistic talent that define this beloved cultural export.
