04-07-2025
Museum to open showcasing Japanese TV presenter Kuroyanagi Tetsuko's collection
A museum exhibiting costumes worn and items collected by famous Japanese actor and TV presenter Kuroyanagi Tetsuko is set to open in the central Japanese resort town of Karuizawa on Saturday.
The design of the museum building in Nagano Prefecture was inspired by her trademark onion-shaped hairstyle and includes an observation deck. About 320 of her former belongings will be on display.
In a preview held on Friday, items on display included a dress designed by the late Mori Hanae, a renowned Japanese fashion designer, as well as a kimono and artworks from both Japan and abroad. Visitors can also view a portrait of Kuroyanagi in her 20s.
The foundation that operates the museum said it took about seven years to bring the project to life, honoring Kuroyanagi's wish to preserve her collection for future generations. Around 2,000 items she donated to the foundation will be exhibited on a rotating basis.
Kuroyanagi told reporters that she has been visiting Karuizawa since she was a child, so it feels nostalgic. She described her childhood as a period when beautiful or novel things were not available. She said collecting and treasuring things can only be done in times of peace, adding that she hopes that the visitors will appreciate the beauty of the items on display.
