To commemorate the completion of the manga series The Elusive Samurai (逃げ上手の若君), a special exhibition titled “The Elusive Samurai Special Exhibition ~An Invitation to the Past That Continues to the Present~” will be held for a limited three days from August 28 to August 30, 2026, at the Naorai-den hall of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in Kamakura.
Organized by AniCan Inc., the exhibition takes place at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the location where the story both begins and ends. It will display various elements that make up the work, offering a multi-angle approach to its world.
The Story of The Elusive Samurai
Set after the fall of the Kamakura shogunate, The Elusive Samurai depicts the Nanbokucho period through the life of Hojo Tokiyuki. In 1333, the Kamakura shogunate fell due to the betrayal of Ashikaga Takauji. The protagonist, Hojo Tokiyuki, guided by Suwa Yorishige, sets out to reclaim Kamakura.
Calligraphy and the “Nanbokucho Onigokko” Display
At the venue, the world of the story and its colorful characters will be presented in the form of traditional Japanese art objects such as folding screens and hanging scrolls. The exhibition features a display titled “Nanbokucho Onigokko” (Nanbokucho Tag) using calligraphy by the calligrapher Maeda Kamari. It likens Tokiyuki’s unique talent for “running away” and his battles against the powerful opponents who stand in his way to a game of tag, vividly depicting the soundless battle scenes of the manga.
Calligraphy: “Nanbokucho Onigokko”
Historical Artifacts and the Sword Onimaru
Also on display are the Hojo family’s treasured heirloom sword “Onimaru,” entrusted to Tokiyuki by Yorishige as he fled to Izu after the end of the Nakasendai Rebellion, along with exhibits tracing the history of the Nanbokucho period. The exhibition introduces the story of surviving a turbulent era alongside the two “weapons” that supported Tokiyuki.
The Turbulent Nanbokucho Period
Anime Production Materials
Attention also goes to the anime adaptation, which first aired in 2024 and began its second season in July 2026. The exhibition will feature original drawings, art setting materials, and other displays centered on the beautifully depicted Kamakura landscapes.
The World of the Work Depicted in Animation
Collaboration with Japanese Paintings
For the manga’s covers, the background illustrations were handled by Japanese painter Asakura Takafumi. The exhibition will display the actual Japanese paintings used, showcasing the collaboration between manga and Japanese painting.
Collaboration with Japanese Paintings
AR Displays and Merchandise
In addition, visitors can enjoy AR displays using 3D models created for the production of the work, featuring the Hojo family’s treasured sword “Onimaru” and other unique items based on historical facts but created by the author.
As bonus goods, a “Foil Press Postcard Set (6 cards)” will be available. Original merchandise includes a “BIG Acrylic Stand” (3,300 yen) and an “Acrylic Stand” (2,200 yen).
Foil Press Postcard Set
BIG Acrylic Stand
Event Details
“The Elusive Samurai Special Exhibition ~An Invitation to the Past That Continues to the Present~” will be held for a limited three days from August 28 (Friday) to August 30 (Sunday), 2026. It offers an opportunity to experience Japanese history and artistic culture through the story of Hojo Tokiyuki.
(C) Matsui Yuusei / Shueisha
(C) Matsui Yuusei / Shueisha・The Elusive Samurai Production Committee
