The non-verbal stage performance “The Life of HOKUSAI”, portraying the extraordinary life of the “mad genius” painter Katsushika Hokusai and acclaimed at performing arts festivals across Europe, will finally return to Japan for a much-anticipated homecoming performance in Asakusa, Tokyo, on April 18, 2026. The Life of HOKUSAI Official Website
The Documentary Film “SOKUIN” Now Streaming on YouTube! The documentary film “SOKUIN” (Japanese version with English subtitles)—currently available on Amazon Prime in the UK, the US, and Japan— is now being streamed on YouTube until the end of March 2026.
The Life of HOKUSAI Experience the internationally acclaimed stage performance returning home for a special one-day show in Tokyo.
Start Times: ① 3:30 PM Performance ② 6:00 PM Performance (Duration: approximately 70 minutes) *Please arrive at the venue at least 15 minutes before the start time to exchange your ticket.
Ticket Types and Prices:
The Genius Painter Japan Proudly Presents to the World: Katsushika Hokusai
Katsushika Hokusai was named one of the “100 Most Influential People of the Past 1,000 Years” by LIFE magazine, standing alongside figures such as Edison and Einstein as the only Japanese person selected, ranking 86th. Throughout his lifetime, Hokusai created more than 30,000 works that crossed oceans and had a profound influence on European art.
His Beloved Wife “Koto” and His Gifted Daughter “Oei”
This stage performance tells a touching story of love between Hokusai, his wife Koto, and his daughter Oei. So deeply absorbed in his art, Hokusai often treated his wife harshly, yet Koto continued to support him with warmth and patience.
When Hokusai lost the woman who had always stood by him, how did he rise again as the eccentric genius painter? How were his great works born?
Through the bond between Hokusai and his daughter Oei (Katsushika Ōi), the story portrays his life as both a father and a mentor.
Acclaimed Worldwide
At the 2021 Edinburgh Festival Fringe in the United Kingdom, this production received a four-star rating, the only Japanese entry to do so. In 2022, it was honored with the Cool Japan Matching Award presented by the Cabinet Office of Japan. It has since been invited to performing arts festivals across the world, where it continues to receive high acclaim.
Featuring Authentic Digital Artworks
All ukiyo-e pieces used in the production are based on digital data of original works preserved in museums, providing an authentic and immersive visual experience.
Notes for U-23 Tickets U-23 tickets are available for guests aged from elementary school age up to 23 years old. Seat types cannot be selected. If your group includes guests with regular tickets (S or A seats), we will do our best to arrange seats in the same section; however, please note that seating is subject to availability. A valid photo ID (such as a passport) showing proof of age is required at check-in on the day of the performance. This offer applies to guests aged 23 or younger as of April 18, 2026 — that is, those born on or after April 19, 2002 (elementary school age and above).
Admission Information Please arrive at the venue at least 15 minutes before the start time to exchange your ticket.
At the entrance, please show your reservation screen or confirmed voucher to the staff. A valid photo ID (such as a passport) may also be required to verify your age at check-in. After check-in, you will receive your ticket. Please proceed to the seat indicated on your ticket — all seats are reserved, and you may not sit in any seat other than the one assigned to you.
Once the performance begins, entry may be restricted due to stage direction. Please follow staff instructions when entering. The performance runs for approximately 70 minutes with no intermission.