The "Space Battleship Yamato All Records Exhibition" officially kicked off on March 15, 2025, at the Seibu Shibuya store, marking the 50th anniversary of the beloved anime series. Planned and produced by noted anime director Hideaki Anno, this exhibition promises to be more than just a retrospective; it's a celebration of the immortal legacy of "Yamato," which remains influential to this day.
With the tagline "Without meeting 'Space Battleship Yamato,' I wouldn't be who I am today," Anno encapsulates the deep personal resonance the series holds for fans and creators alike. The exhibition offers more than 1,200 items on display, including original project proposals, character designs, and mecha blueprints, all sourced from the invaluable collection preserved by the Anime Special Effects Archive Organization (ATAC).
The main exhibition is divided across the 7th floor of the Seibu Shibuya store, and key sections include the "Birth" corner, which showcases materials from the early development of the anime, featuring image boards and concept art, including around 19 minutes of pilot film footage. The subsequent zones trace the series' evolution: "Development" (episodes 1-5), "Training" (episodes 6-15), "Fierce Battle" (episodes 16-22), and "Return to Heaven" (episodes 23-26). Each area presents artifacts such as scripts, drawings, and interactive listening stations where visitors can experience iconic sound effects like the Wave Engine and emergency alarms.
The layout is impressive, with high-resolution scans of documents displayed alongside original artwork, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricacies of the production. Notably, the original drawings showcase details and textures which reveal the craftsmanship behind the animation, as Anno stated, "I hope everyone can appreciate the soul embedded within the original artifacts on display."
On the 2nd floor, fans can find not only merchandise but also detailed timelines chronicling the history of the franchise, extending from its inception with the original 1974 series to the latest remakes. This area also displays 1/100 scale models, memorabilia, and engaging panels explaining the artistic and production milestones of "Yamato."
A collaboration café, named "365cafe," located within the same building, complements the exhibition with thematic food and drinks inspired by memorable moments from the series. Exclusive offerings include "Yamato Farm's Tomato Juice" and "Captain Okita's Resolve" coffee, alongside dishes like "Red Earth Pasta" and the dystopian-themed "Space Battleship Yamato Plate." Every order from the café earns visitors limited-edition collectibles, including coasters and placemats featuring characters and scenes from the series.
The media greatly anticipated the exhibition's opening, highlighted by the official press preview held on March 14. Noteworthy figures such as Anno, actress Yoko Maegami, and Koichi Ozasa, CEO of Tohoku Shinsha, participated in the opening's tape-cutting ceremony. During this event, Anno remarked, "'Space Battleship Yamato' is not just any work; it was epoch-making for all of us who watched it back then." He emphasized the importance of sharing this legacy with future generations, proclaiming, "I hope it continues to be talked about even another fifty years from now."
Ozasa, voicing his sentiments, shared his pleasure at being part of the project, reflecting on the preservation efforts for the original materials, many of which could have been lost. He expressed gratitude toward donors who lent their treasured items for the exhibition, enriching it with artifacts not seen before. This collaboration highlights the unity of fans, creators, and historians.
Throughout the weeks leading up to the exhibition, there has been buzz among anime enthusiasts. The event is more than simply showcasing material; it serves to educate about the significance of "Space Battleship Yamato" within the broader history of anime, influencing countless creators and works past, present, and future.
Visible throughout Shibuya, promotional displays will guide fans to the exhibition. Features such as the imposing facade graphics and the prominent LED vision at the entrance deliver engaging visuals of the Yamato ship alongside memorable series moments.
The "Yamato All Records Exhibition" is set to run from March 15 to March 31, 2025, with operating hours from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Visitors can purchase tickets either on-site or online through Lawson Tickets, retaining access to exclusive merchandise—a limited acrylic stand among the items.
For those who have long adored this classic space opera or are freshly introduced to its universe, this exhibition is not to be missed. Anno's response during the opening captures the spirit of the event: "Thank you. That's all." It is clear his love for "Yamato" is mirrored by countless fans, underscoring its enduring legacy.