50th Anniversary of "Obake no Tempura" by Keiko Sena: "Obake no Tempura" Exhibition to be Held

Poplar Publishing Co., Ltd. (Shinagawa, Tokyo / President and CEO: Yukihiro Kato) will hold the "Keiko Sena 'Obake no Tempura' Exhibition" to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the publication of Keiko Sena's representative work, "Obake no Tempura." The exhibition will take place from Sunday, July 19, 2026, to Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at BUNKITSU TOKYO Gallery B (Newoman Takanawa South 5F).

"Obake no Tempura," published in 1976, is a long-selling picture book that has been read across generations and continues to remain in the hearts of many children.

Whether you feel a thrill at the ghost's actions, involuntarily swallow your saliva at the delicious smell of freshly fried tempura, or laugh at the somewhat clumsy and endearing appearance of Usako—the work has been loved for 50 years as a piece that brings new discoveries and enjoyment with every reading.

Furthermore, Keiko Sena's unique "cut-and-paste collage" technique, using cut colored paper, is a major appeal of her works. The texture and colors of the paper, and the expressions unique to collage that combine delicacy and boldness, continue to fascinate many readers and creators to this day.

This exhibition will feature an exhibition space where you can fully enjoy the world of "Obake no Tempura."

You can experience Keiko Sena's rich expressive world through valuable original artwork, exhibits that allow you to experience the story's atmosphere, and photo spots.

Additionally, on Sunday, July 26, a special event will be held: a gallery talk titled "My Mother, Keiko Sena" by Kaoru Kuroda, Keiko Sena's daughter and a picture book author who has closely observed her mother's creative activities for many years. She will speak about Keiko Sena as an artist and her private life known only to her family.

Regarding the Exhibition

Keiko Sena, who created many masterpieces including the "Nenai Kodare da" and "Iya Iya" series, imbues her works with a warm gaze that embraces children's free thinking and a humorous worldview.

Among her works, "Obake no Tempura" has been cherished by many children since its publication in 1976, passed down from parents to children, and then to grandchildren.

On this milestone occasion of the 50th anniversary of its publication, this exhibition will reintroduce the world of "Obake no Tempura" along with the charm of the original artwork. We hope it will be an opportunity for those who have read the work, as well as those encountering it for the first time, to feel the richness of Keiko Sena's creativity.

Exhibition Highlights

1. Display of valuable original artwork that colors the world of "Obake no Tempura"

You can closely appreciate the charm of the colored paper's texture and layering, and the expressions of the cut lines.

Through the original artwork of "Obake no Tempura," you can feel the creative spirit that has been loved for many years.

2. Experience the world of "Obake no Tempura" in its entirety

We aim to create an exhibition space that can be enjoyed by three generations of parents and children, with exhibits that allow you to experience the story's world.

A ghost in a large kimono will greet you at the venue. Through photo spots recreating famous scenes from the picture book and exhibits that make you feel as if you've stepped into the world of the story, you can enjoy an experience like strolling through "Obake no Tempura."

This exhibition is full of nostalgic and new discoveries for both children and adults.

3. A large collection of "Obake no Tempura" merchandise

A merchandise corner where you can enjoy the world of "Obake no Tempura" will also be available.

We will offer a wide variety of products, including items featuring Usako and the ghost motifs, as well as miscellaneous goods and stationery filled with the charm of Keiko Sena's works.

This is a unique merchandise corner for a "complete exhibition" where you can enjoy looking, choosing, and shopping.

Special Event

Gallery Talk

"My Mother, Keiko Sena: Stories of Keiko Sena by her daughter, Kaoru Kuroda (Ruru-chan)"

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the publication of "Obake no Tempura," a special talk event will be held by Kaoru Kuroda, Keiko Sena's daughter.

She will talk about what kind of mother Keiko Sena was at home, how her works were created, episodes from her creative process known only to family, and her personality as an artist.

Event Outline

Date and Time: Sunday, July 26, 2026, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (Doors open at 4:30 PM)

Venue: BUNKITSU TOKYO Gallery B (Newoman Takanawa South 5F)

Speaker: Kaoru Kuroda

Title: "My Mother, Keiko Sena: Stories of Keiko Sena by her daughter, Kaoru Kuroda (Ruru-chan)"

TICKET (Capacity: 40 people): 1,500 yen (excluding tax)

Tickets available here ▶ https://obakenotenpura.peatix.com Sales begin: Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 6:00 PM

Visitor Bonus

Participants in the gallery talk will receive an "Obake no Tempura Famous Scene Sticker."

Exhibition Overview

Exhibition Name: Keiko Sena "Obake no Tempura" Exhibition

Dates: Sunday, July 19, 2026 - Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Venue: BUNKITSU TOKYO Gallery B

2-21-2 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0074, Newoman Takanawa South 5F

Admission Fee: Free

Organizer: Poplar Publishing Co., Ltd.

Cooperation: Kaoru Kuroda

Design: 1TARO GRAPHICS

Photography: Hiromi Shinada

Keiko Sena

Born in Tokyo. Studied under Takeo Takei, a painter known for his modern style, and entered the world of picture books. In 1970, she received the Sankei Children's Publishing Culture Award for "Iya Iya no Ehon" (Fukuinkan Shoten). She established her unique style as a picture book author. Her humorous cut-and-paste collages are supported by a wide range of people, from adults to children.

Her works include "Megane Usagi," "Obake no Tempura," the "Keiko Sena's Picture Book" series, as well as "Ohisama to Otsukisama no Kenka," which depicts war, and the poetry collection "Keiko Sena Poetry and Picture Collection: A Small World" (both Poplar Publishing), which she compiled while working on her creations. In 2011, she received the 50th Children's Culture Award of Merit. She passed away in 2024.