Osamu Akimoto's classic manga, "KochiKame: Here Are the Rinkai Police Box," which ran for an incredible 40 years in Weekly Shonen Jump, is a series etched into the memories of countless fans and holds the record for the longest-running manga in a shonen magazine.
Back in 2022, plans were announced for a "KochiKame Memorial Museum" in Tokyo's Katsushika Ward, and now, it's officially open as of March 22nd! The museum aims to boost local shopping districts and overall regional development, establishing a tourism and urban development hub centered around the beloved series. Unsurprisingly, its grand opening drew hordes of eager fans.
Designed by Japanese architectural firm Nomura Co., Ltd., the museum boasts a super fun concept: it's as if Ryo-san himself opened a memorial museum right above his own police box! Visitors can dive deep into the series' charm inside the museum and even hunt for clues of Ryo-san's "escape" out on the streets, fully immersing themselves in the world of "KochiKame."
The first-floor facade perfectly recreates the Kameari Park Mae Police Box.
Creator Osamu Akimoto attending the grand opening.
The museum's exterior is designed in a manga panel style, while its interior is divided into five themed floors, each inspired by the series' storyline:
5F | Ryo-san's Birthplace – Ryo-san Daimyojin
This floor not only showcases the four-and-a-half tatami mat room where the manga was born but also features videos of creator Osamu Akimoto's creative process and precious collections that inspired Ryo-san and the author. The highlight, the "Ryo-san Daimyojin," even offers fortune-telling to reveal your destiny!
4F | Original Art Exhibition – The World of "KochiKame"
The walls are adorned with carefully selected manga panels, and exclusive themed replica original art exhibitions are on display. A massive screen also showcases content from all 201 volumes of the manga, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the series' universe.
3F | Iconic Scene Interactive Zone – "KochiKame" Playground
Relive classic moments from the series with interactive games and digital experiences that let you play right inside the museum! Plus, various "iconic scene experience boxes" allow visitors to literally "step into" the manga world.
2F | Ryo-san's Private Quarters
Step into a recreation of Ryo-san's room and explore his personal space. The Honorary Curator's Office displays various memorabilia, complete with interactive designs that make you feel like Ryo-san is right there with you.
1F | Community Space – Welcome to Kameari!
The ticket counter is designed to look like a police box office. This floor introduces Kameari's culture, festivals, and history, offers information for a series-themed pilgrimage, and recommends local events and attractions, allowing fans to delve deeper into the area's charm.
The museum is now open, with ticket prices as follows:
High school students and above: 700 JPY (Katsushika Ward residents: 500 JPY)
Junior high school students and below: 300 JPY (Katsushika Ward residents: 100 JPY)
Preschool children: Free
Katsushika Ward residents: This includes students and those working in the ward, who can also enjoy discounted rates!
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:20 PM)
Closed: The third Tuesday of every month (If it falls on a national holiday, the museum will close the following day).
While the "KochiKame Memorial Museum" has just opened its doors, officials have promised continuous updates to its exhibitions, local information, and limited-edition merchandise in the future. So, if you ever find yourself in the area, don't miss out on this must-visit pilgrimage!
via： 乃村工藝社