A Charming Penguin Exhibition in Kyoto! Sakazaki Chiharu’s “Hannari Penguin” Delights Visitors
Latest print ‘Penguin Hanafuda March: Sakura’ 34x24cm
Latest print ‘Penguin Hanafuda August: Susuki’ 34x24cm
Latest print ‘Penguin Hanafuda September: Kiku’ 34x24cm
One-of-a-kind Kutani-yaki collaboration artwork: Large plate ‘Enjoying Winter’
One-of-a-kind Kutani-yaki collaboration artwork: Large plate ‘Penguin Hanafuda with Sho-Chiku-Bai’
Sakazaki Chiharu Print Exhibition ‘Hannari Penguin’
Sakazaki Chiharu Print Exhibition ‘Hannari Penguin’
The highly anticipated print exhibition by Sakazaki Chiharu, the visionary artist behind JR East’s iconic IC card character, the “Suica no Penguin,” is currently enchanting visitors. Titled “Hannari Penguin,” this delightful exhibition is being held at Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. until November 16, 2025. Guests can immerse themselves in new prints from the popular “Penguin Hanafuda” series, alongside exclusive, one-of-a-kind Kutani-yaki collaboration pieces.
Sakazaki Chiharu Print Exhibition ‘Hannari Penguin’
Meet the Visionary Artist: Sakazaki Chiharu
Born in Chiba Prefecture, Sakazaki Chiharu is a renowned illustrator and picture book author who honed her skills at Tokyo Geijutsu Daigaku (Tokyo University of the Arts), graduating from the Department of Design in the Faculty of Fine Arts. After gaining valuable experience in the production department of a stationery manufacturer, she embarked on an independent career in 1998. Since then, Sakazaki-san has remained at the forefront of her field, creating works that are beloved across Japan by people of all ages. Her significant contributions to art were recognized in 2011 when she received the Ichikawa Shimin Geijutsu Bunka Shourei Shou (Ichikawa City Arts and Culture Encouragement Award).
A Glimpse into Sakazaki Chiharu’s Iconic Characters
Sakazaki-san is widely celebrated for her iconic character designs, with JR East’s beloved “Suica no Penguin” being a prime example. Her creative touch extends to numerous other popular characters, including Chiba Prefecture’s charming mascot, “Chii-ba-kun”; Daihatsu’s distinctive “Kakukaku Shikajika”; Yamato Holdings’ familiar “Kuroneko Shiro-neko” (Black Cat, White Cat); and Toho’s adorable “Chibi Godzilla.” Her ability to create endearing and memorable characters has garnered her a broad fanbase.
Latest print ‘Penguin Hanafuda August: Susuki’ 34x24cm
Exhibition Highlights: Penguin Hanafuda and Kutani-yaki
This “Hannari Penguin” exhibition marks Sakazaki-san’s second print exhibition at Kyoto Takashimaya S.C., building on the success of her previous show. One of the main attractions of this event is undoubtedly the unveiling of new prints and merchandise featuring her popular “Penguin Hanafuda” designs, which cleverly blend traditional Japanese card game aesthetics with her signature charming penguins.
Latest print ‘Penguin Hanafuda September: Kiku’ 34x24cm
Three exquisite new version prints have been released, completing a captivating series. This collection includes the previously sold-out August Susuki (pampas grass) and September Kiku (chrysanthemum) designs, now brilliantly joined by the ever-popular March Sakura (cherry blossom). These pieces are beautifully presented as part of the “Hanami de Ippai” (Enjoying Drinks under Cherry Blossoms) and “Tsukimi de Ippai” (Enjoying Drinks under the Moon) sets, evoking classic hanafuda themes with a delightful penguin twist.
One-of-a-kind Kutani-yaki collaboration artwork: Large plate ‘Enjoying Winter’
Adding to the excitement, the always-popular one-of-a-kind Kutani-yaki collaboration pieces now feature the delightful “Hanafuda Penguin” designs. These unique Kutani-yaki items, known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, are available exclusively through a lottery sale, with all applications accepted directly at the venue. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the truly “hannari” (elegant, graceful, and charming) and heartwarming penguins created by Sakazaki-san firsthand!
One-of-a-kind Kutani-yaki collaboration artwork: Large plate ‘Penguin Hanafuda with Sho-Chiku-Bai’
The “Hannari Penguin” print exhibition by Sakazaki Chiharu, the artist behind JR East’s “Suica no Penguin” and other beloved characters, is delighting visitors at Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. until November 16, 2025. Please note that on the final day, the exhibition will close promptly at 18:00 (6:00 PM). For more detailed information regarding the exhibition, be sure to check the official X (formerly Twitter) account and the dedicated information page.
Event Information
- Event Name: Sakazaki Chiharu Print Exhibition “Hannari Penguin”
- Dates: November 12 (Wednesday) to November 16 (Sunday)
- Venue: Kyoto Takashimaya S.C. (Department Store), 7th Floor Event Hall *On the final day, the exhibition closes at 6:00 PM.
- Note: Please be aware that exhibit contents or event details may be subject to change or cancellation due to various unforeseen circumstances.
(C) Chiharu Sakazaki
Written by Nakase Koutarou
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