Iloilo, hampang ta!
The Japan Foundation, Manila is bringing its travelling exhibition for the young and young at heart to Iloilo. OMOCHA: Japanese Toys Today will be coming to the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art from June 27 to July 26, 2026. This is after its successful run at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, BGC from May 6 to 31, 2026.
The exhibition offers a wide-ranging introduction to toys (“Omocha” in Japanese), from the history of toys cherished across generations, to the latest toys, infused with modern technologies and ideas. Toys, which emerged in the context of popular culture during the Edo period, were originally created as objects to pray for the healthy growth of children. Over the years, they have evolved in various ways, coming to serve not only as a fun way for children and adults to play together, but also as tools for learning and development. Being a source of play for adults as well-becoming multi-faceted items, they too play an important role in different settings across many people’s lives.
Beloved toy icons such as Gundam, Transformers, Pokemon, Chiikawa, Sylvanian Families, Hello Kitty and many more are sure to ignite a sense of nostalgia and a love for play with visitors across generations. Guests may also look forward to interactive areas in the exhibition, as well as public programs. Admission is free to both the exhibition and side events!
For full exhibition schedules, admission guidelines, and event details, please visit the social media pages of the Japan Foundation, Manila and Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art. See you at the museum!