A new facility dedicated to the late manga artist and essayist Sakura Momoko—creator of Chibi Maruko-chan and Kojikoji—and the town she deeply loved, Gujo Hachiman, is set to open on July 4, 2026 at 12:00. Ahead of the grand opening, the facility has released detailed information about its exhibits, immersive video experiences, and exclusive merchandise.
Located in the nationally registered tangible cultural property “Gujo Hachiman Machiyashiki Echizenya” in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, the facility “Sakura Momoko to Gujo Hachiman” blends the charm of a historic building with original artwork, three-dimensional displays, and a variety of other content to create a unique space for visitors.
First Floor – Entrance
The entrance welcomes guests with a newly drawn key visual depicting the peaceful streets and rich nature of Gujo Hachiman. A “town walking map” highlighting spots connected to Sakura Momoko and the town’s attractions is also on display, encouraging visitors to explore Gujo Hachiman starting from the facility.
In the “Beginning Room,” three-dimensional figures of Sakura Momoko’s original characters “GJ8 Man” (GJ8マン) and “Hachigoro” (はちごろう) make an appearance. Visitors are invited to take commemorative photos with them and share their travel memories on social media.
Second Floor – “The Four Seasons of Gujo Hachiman with Momoko”
This section features special artwork created exclusively for the facility, themed around the seasonal landscapes of Gujo Hachiman. Glittering golden clouds adorn the pieces, vividly expressing the town’s charm in each season. GJ8 Man and his friends also appear, adding color to the works. The entire room is used for spatial presentation, making the space itself a single artwork. Visitors can enjoy an immersive art experience that blends the unique atmosphere of Gujo Hachiman with a fantastical world.
First Floor – Video Exhibition Room: “Feel and Discover Momoko and Gujo Hachiman”
Sakura Momoko once described Gujo Hachiman as a “fairy-tale world,” a town that lives with water. In the video exhibition room, an immersive video experience allows visitors to feel why she was so captivated by and continued to love Gujo Hachiman. Set in a historic storehouse space, the approximately four-minute video presents the town’s scenery—woven from rich nature and daily life—in a painterly, diorama-like world. By experiencing the sights and sounds that Sakura Momoko felt, guests can touch the charm of Gujo Hachiman as she saw it. The video condenses the landscapes she loved, the clear air, and the richness of heart she found when visiting the town.
First Floor – Courtyard: “Traditional Crafts of Gujo Hachiman”
In the courtyard, a special exhibition combines Gujo Hachiman’s traditional crafts and making culture with GJ8 Man. Works showcasing local artisans’ skills include Gujo hon-zome dyeing, Mino washi paper, building blocks, Gujo geta clogs, and silk screen printing. A food sample display introduces foods that GJ8 Man and Sakura Momoko liked, offering a fun way to experience the culture and charm unique to Gujo Hachiman.
More Exhibits to Explore
The facility also offers a variety of other exhibits that let visitors experience the appeal of “Sakura Momoko to Gujo Hachiman” from multiple angles. Throughout the space, guests can enjoy the town that Sakura Momoko loved.
Exclusive Merchandise
Original limited-edition goods will be available, including acrylic keychains, postcards, mugs, stickers, trading can badges, hand towels, ballpoint pens with keychains, sticker books, drop stickers, acrylic dioramas, drawstring pouches, T-shirts, and clear files. These items feature collaborations with GJ8 Man as well as Chibi Maruko-chan and Kojikoji. Visitors can take home a piece of the experience.
Facility Information
- Hours: 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30); hours may change during the Gujo Odori period.
- Closed: Open daily except year-end and New Year holidays.
- Ticket Prices (tax included): Adults (high school and above) ¥1,000; Children (elementary and junior high) ¥500; Preschool children free. No group discounts.
- Payment Methods: Cash, credit cards (various), transportation IC cards (various), cashless payments (various). See official site for details.
- Address: 〒501-4226 Gifu Prefecture, Gujo City, Hachiman-cho, Shinmachi 926. See official site for access details.
For further details, visit the official website and official social media accounts.
（仲瀬 コウタロウ）
