The first-ever large-scale exhibition, Koukaku Kidoutai-ten Ghost and the Shell, which spans all animated series of Koukaku Kidoutai, is set to take place from January 30 to April 5, 2026, at TOKYO NODE (Tokyo Node), an information hub located in Toranomon Hills, Tokyo. Tickets for this highly anticipated event will go on sale starting October 28 at 10:00 JST.
Before diving into the exhibition details, take a moment to enjoy these captivating visuals that give a glimpse into the world of Koukaku Kidoutai.
About the Koukaku Kidoutai Series
Koukaku Kidoutai (also known as Ghost in the Shell) is a groundbreaking science fiction manga series that began serialization in 1989 by mangaka Shiro Masamune in the fifth issue of “Young Magazine Kaizokuban,” a special edition of the seinen magazine “Young Magazine.” The series plunges into a futuristic world, following the offensive unit known as “Koukaku Kidoutai,” led by the formidable Major Kusanagi Motoko, a full-body cyborg with exceptional abilities in cyber warfare and combat. Their mission is to confront increasingly complex and heinous crimes in a highly advanced society.
With its remarkably detailed illustrations, deep exploration of cyberpunk elements, and philosophical themes, Koukaku Kidoutai has profoundly influenced countless creators. It delves into the intricate fusion of humanity and technology, alongside profound considerations of individual identity. This thoughtful narrative has solidified its place as a true masterpiece of cyberpunk science fiction. The series has seen various adaptations, including theatrical anime, TV anime, and games, each offering its own unique narrative, interpretations, and expressions distinct from the original manga.
New TV Anime Koukaku Kidoutai THE GHOST IN THE SHELL
Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the broadcast of the new TV anime series, Koukaku Kidoutai THE GHOST IN THE SHELL. This exciting new installment is being directed by Moko-chan, with Enjo Toh handling the series composition and script. Handa Shuuhei is responsible for character design and serves as the chief animation director, while the renowned Science SARU studio is taking on the animation production.
Staff
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Director | Moko-chan |
| Series Composition / Script | Enjo Toh |
| Character Design / Chief Animation Director | Handa Shuuhei |
| Animation Production | Science SARU |
What to Expect at the Exhibition
The Koukaku Kidoutai-ten Ghost and the Shell exhibition is being held to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the anime’s production, bringing together works from across the entire franchise. It promises to be the first large-scale exhibition where fans can experience the series’ history in a comprehensive and immersive way.
The exhibition will showcase an extensive archive of materials created during the production of the entire Koukaku Kidoutai series. This includes a vast collection of original drawings, setting materials, and storyboards, with the number of displayed items expanding from the initially announced 600 to over 1,000. For the very first time globally, unreleased original drawings from the upcoming TV anime will also be revealed in a special sneak peek. Visitors can also look forward to unique experiences such as unveiling “secret cut bags,” purchasing exclusive original merchandise at an immersive store designed to replicate the world of the series, and participating in collaboration events with domestic and international creators who cherish the works.
Ticket Information and Exclusive Merchandise
A range of admission tickets will be available starting October 28, including standard tickets, three types of tickets with special perks, and exclusive early access tickets for the first three days of the exhibition (January 30, 31, and February 1, 2026).
Among the highlights is the “30th Anniversary ‘1995’ Ticket,” which includes an original design T-shirt, produced in a limited run of 1,995 pieces. This special ticket commemorates the 30th anniversary of director Oshii Mamoru’s seminal sci-fi anime film, GHOST IN THE SHELL / Koukaku Kidoutai, released in 1995. The T-shirt design uniquely features a visual emblematic of Kusanagi Motoko alongside the exhibition’s official logo.
Other highly collectible ticket options include one with a “replication film,” carefully cut from actual 35mm film used for screenings of GHOST IN THE SHELL / Koukaku Kidoutai, and another featuring an original design tote bag adorned with a collage of Kusanagi Motoko from across all anime series. This diverse lineup ensures there’s something special for every fan.
Immersive Denno Experience
Further enhancing the experience, the “Denno VISION Experience Ticket” will be available, offering an expanded original drawing experience using AR glasses. Imagine donning AR glasses, much like Kusanagi Motoko herself, and stepping into a “denno-ka” (cyberization) experience, a long-awaited dream for many fans.
This innovative feature allows visitors to not just passively observe the exhibition, but to actively “DIVE” into the world of Koukaku Kidoutai, transforming the viewing into a completely new, immersive journey. Guided by the familiar Tachikoma from the Koukaku Kidoutai: S.A.C. series, attendees will be able to explore the series’ world in greater depth and feel truly part of it.
Exhibition Overview
The unprecedented large-scale exhibition, Koukaku Kidoutai-ten Ghost and the Shell, encompassing all anime series of Koukaku Kidoutai, will be held from January 30 to April 5, 2026, at TOKYO NODE GALLERY A/B/C, located on the 45th floor of Toranomon Hills Station Tower (2-6-2 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo). For more detailed information, please visit the official website.
Exhibition Details
- Name: Koukaku Kidoutai-ten Ghost and the Shell
- Dates: January 30, 2026 (Friday) – April 5, 2026 (Sunday)
- Venue: TOKYO NODE GALLERY A/B/C (Toranomon Hills Station Tower 45F)
- Address: 2-6-2 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Ticket Information:
- LivePocket
- Lawson Ticket
(Please note that available tickets may vary by ticketing platform. Details for each ticket type will be announced on the official website.)
- Organizers: Koukaku Kidoutai-ten Ghost and the Shell Production Committee, Kodansha Ltd., Mori Building Co., Ltd., KDDI Corporation, Production I.G, PARCO Co., Ltd., Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc.
- Cooperation: STYLY Inc.
(C) Shiro Masamune・Kodansha / Koukaku Kidoutai-ten Ghost and the Shell Production Committee
By Nakase Koutarou
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