Chihara Junior (50), the well-known comedian, recently held a press event on March 13, 2025, at Ikebukuro PARCO to spotlight his upcoming exhibition "Saku, Chihara Junior Ten." Officially slated to open on March 14 and run through March 31, this creative showcase not only celebrates Junior's 35th anniversary in entertainment but also marks his milestone 50th birthday. The exhibition promises to feature various works and creations under five distinct categories: "Introduction," "Laughter," "Art," "Books," and "Now," providing fans and newcomers alike with insights through his artistic narrative.
Within the press conference, Junior elaborated on the extensive preparations involved, remarking, "I felt like I put significant effort not just for my works but also with some items from my private collection. Now, my home feels pretty empty." He reminisced about the creative process of the exhibition, explaining, "This isn’t solely my decision—my past managers brainstormed the idea as we sought to commemorate the closure of my 50s. So, it’s kind of like, 'What if we do something special now?'" This led to the idea of the exhibition, which reflects both his professional and personal life.
During the conference, Junior also expressed his thoughts concerning fellow comedian Yahagi Ken (61) of the comedy duo Downtown, who recently announced he would take a break to focus on his health on March 10, 2025. Junior noted the professionalism Ken displayed throughout their collaboration, stating, "I felt very professional. I haven't spoken to him, but I have contacted him." He added, "I was really surprised to hear it. But I didn't feel anything like it when I was working together with him, so I felt very professional." This highlights the respect Junior has for Ken’s dedication to their craft.
Junior’s exhibition promises to be engaging, showcasing various art and comedic elements, including materials related to the variety program where Yahagi is the MC. He emphasized the labor behind many of his creations, pointing out some pieces had taken hours of labor for mere three minutes of airtime. "It’s worth noting how much effort goes behind these works. Many creations took around 70 to 80 hours for just three minutes on air; that's part of the showcase and something I hope visitors appreciate!" remarked Junior.
Another aspect of the exhibition involves merchandise, including limited 3D-printed figures of Junior himself, available one per day for the show's duration. They are humorously referred to as "real" Junior figures, but Junior laughed about who would want to buy them, saying, "I don’t know who would buy this. But it’s amusing; my nephew wants one. Can there really be one?" This endearing comment reflects Junior’s charismatic personality and his connection with fans and family.
With the exhibition running for 18 days, Junior expressed concern for those unfamiliar with his work, worryingly stating, "I was afraid, 'I don't think people who are not interested will come and enjoy it.'" Still, he invited everyone to explore the newfound insights offered through the exhibition, emphasizing the enjoyable aspects of revisiting his creativity and his career. "I hope to make this approachable for everyone! Come and enjoy!" he stated enthusiastically.
The exhibition features additional items inspired by his family life, some produced during the pandemic when he explored hobbies like creating paper sculptures at home. "These rather personal elements of my creations will be on display too, reflecting my private side. You’ll see pieces made with materials bought by my wife for our son—those add novelty to this collection!"
Chihara Junior’s "Saku, Chihara Junior Ten" opens on March 14 at Tokyo's PARCO FACTORY, from 11:00 AM until 9:10 PM daily, with last entry 30 minutes before closing. Tickets are priced at 1000 yen each, which includes access to the exhibition and other interactive experiences. Expect plenty of laughter and creativity—you might even find your own inspiration!