Ultra-Real Miniature Worlds Await: Araki and Shimaki’s Breathtaking Diorama Exhibition in Kochi

Step into a world where nostalgia and craftsmanship collide—Kochi’s Kaiyodo Hobby Museum is currently hosting an extraordinary exhibition of ultra-detailed miniature art. Featuring over 50 works by renowned artists Araki and Shimaki, this special showcase invites visitors to explore jaw-droppingly realistic dioramas and enchanting miniature houses. Whether you’re an art lover, a photography enthusiast, or just a fan of tiny things, this exhibition promises a truly magical experience.

A Miniature Wonderland Hidden in the Mountains of Kochi

Nestled deep in the mountains of Kochi Prefecture, the Kaiyodo Hobby Museum Shimanto is currently hosting a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition that celebrates the magic of miniatures and dioramas. Titled “Ultra-Real Miniature Worlds,” the exhibit runs from April 26 to June 29, 2025, and features over 50 works by two of Japan’s most celebrated miniature artists: Araki and Shimaki.

Meet the Masters: Araki and Shimaki

Araki—also known as “Joukei-shi Araki”—is a diorama artist famous for creating incredibly realistic scenes that capture the soul of everyday Japan. From nostalgic Showa-era candy shops to gritty urban alleys, his works bring forgotten memories to life. This exhibition commemorates the 10th anniversary of his solo career with a selection of 30 masterpieces, including fan favorites like The Gotham City and Red Lighthouse Breakwater.

Meanwhile, the late Hidefumi Shimaki, often dubbed “the magician of perspective,” presents a completely different style. Using his background as a licensed architect, Shimaki crafted stage-like miniature interiors called “Hako-Butai.” His unique method, known as linear perspective, creates a breathtaking sense of depth within confined spaces. With 25 intricate models—like the Kyoto Tea House and Tanaka Grocery Store in Hiroshima—Shimaki’s section invites visitors to peer into another dimension.

Exhibition Highlights: Nostalgic Streets and Illusionary Spaces

From matchbox-sized buildings to room-sized reconstructions, each piece is crafted with obsessive attention to detail. Visitors will be transported into everyday moments—kids playing near a candy store, an old soy sauce shop glowing under soft lighting, or the backstreets of a fading town. Every model tells a story, and every shadow and surface has meaning.

When and Where to Visit This Limited-Time Art Showcase

• Location: Kaiyodo Hobby Museum Shimanto, 1458-1 Utsuikawa, Shimanto Town, Kochi
• Dates: April 26 – June 29, 2025
• Hours: 10:00–18:00 (Last entry at 17:30)
• Closed: Every Tuesday (or Wednesday if Tuesday is a national holiday)

Capture the Magic: A Photo-Friendly Diorama Experience

The exhibition is entirely photo-friendly, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. Zoom in close and you’ll discover just how finely detailed each creation is—perfect for Instagram or your next blog post. It’s a rare chance to see this level of craftsmanship up close, and to capture tiny scenes that feel larger than life.

Why This Exhibition Matters: A Tribute to Artistic Precision and Memory

More than just miniature displays, this exhibition is a tribute to two incredible artists and their lifelong pursuit of beauty, nostalgia, and illusion. Whether it’s Araki’s emotional streetscapes or Shimaki’s architectural storytelling, the exhibit bridges art and memory, drawing viewers into intimate moments that feel both familiar and fantastical.

Plan Your Visit Today and Step into a Miniature Storybook

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness Japan’s finest miniature and diorama artists in one unforgettable exhibition. Whether you’re visiting Kochi or looking for a weekend art escape, make sure to step into this miniature world before June 29. Bring your camera, your curiosity, and a love for detail!

©情景師アラーキー／(株)奇想天外・海洋堂ホビー館四万十

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