Leiji Matsumoto's first large-scale exhibition since his death

The first large-scale exhibition since the death of the late Reiji Matsumoto, "Galaxy Express 999 50th Anniversary Project Reiji Matsumoto Exhibition: A Journey of Creation," will be held at Tokyo City View (Minato Ward, Tokyo) from June 20th. This is the first large-scale exhibition since the death of Matsumoto, who passed away in 2023, and will display over 300 original drawings, including early works, materials that will be shown for the first time, and precious mementos. It will explore the appeal of Matsumoto's works, which include the themes of "space," "women," and "mecha." It will run until September 7th.

The exhibition will explore Matsumoto's skills and talent as an artist, who has continued to express his unique worldview in the two fields of manga and anime, and the message he has entrusted to the future through his creative activities over more than 70 years. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by the station platform of "Galaxy Express 999" and a monument of the Galaxy Super Express 999.

"The Reiji Meter Marks His Steps" will feature his work "A World of Insects Exploration Chronicle," which he created when he was 14 and aspired to become a manga artist in Kokura, Kitakyushu, as well as his early girls' manga, the original drawings of "Otoko Oidon," which was born from his experience of living in extreme poverty, and his precious "creative notebook" from the time of his debut, which will be on public display for the first time. Also on display will be the original manga drawings for "Space Battleship Yamato," as well as original drawings and hand-drawn storyboards for "Space Pirate Captain Harlock."

In "A Unique Creative Universe," precious original drawings from the first episode of "Galaxy Express 999," the art materials and reference books he actually used, his favorite hat, and other memorable items will be on display. In "Artist Leiji Matsumoto," color original drawings from "Otoko Oidon," "Space Battleship Yamato," "Galaxy Express 999," and more will be on display. The exhibition will also be held at the Kitakyushu Manga Museum Special Exhibition Room (Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu City) from September 27 to January 12, 2026.