To commemorate the 600th anniversary plus one year of the reconstruction of the National Treasure Main Hall and Worship Hall at Kibitsu Shrine, the “Kibitsu Shrine: An Interactive Design Exhibition” will open on July 14.

~An Interactive Exhibition Where You Can “Touch, Play, and Learn” About National Treasure Buildings~

2026.06.23 09:30

吉備津神社

Kibitsu Shrine (Kita Ward, Okayama City) and the Faculty of Design at Okayama Prefectural University are hosting the “Kibitsu Shrine: ‘Experiential’ Design Exhibition” to commemorate the 600th anniversary plus one year of the reconstruction of the shrine’s National Treasure Main Hall andto mark the 600th anniversary plus one year of their reconstruction. The exhibition will be held from Tuesday, July 14, to Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Tenjinyama Culture Plaza (Kita Ward, Okayama City).This exhibition is a participatory design event that allows visitors not only to “see” the charm of these National Treasure buildings—which blend cultural heritage with digital technology—but also to “touch, walk through, andwalk through, and draw”—all while having fun and learning.This is a new initiative in which the Visual Design, Crafts and Industrial Design, and Architecture departments of the Faculty of Design at Okayama Prefectural University have collaborated to reinterpret the appeal of cultural properties from a contemporary design perspective. Open to a wide range of ages, from children to adults, the exhibition aims to deepen interest in traditional Japanese architecture and regional culture while promoting new and unprecedented value.

展示タイトル

Exhibition Title

■Main Exhibition Content

● Immersive Video Exhibition: “Walking Through National Treasures” on a Giant 600-Inch Screen

Based on high-precision LiDAR measurement data, this immersive video presentation recreates the National Treasure Main Hall and Worship Hall of Kibitsu Shrine on a 600-inch screen.Within this vast visual space, visitors can dynamically experience the intricate details and spatial structure of these National Treasure buildings, freely appreciating the finer points of Kibitsu Shrine from perspectives not normally accessible.

点群データの映像展示(イメージ)

Point Cloud Data Video Exhibition (Concept Image)

● Traditional Timber-Frame Construction Experience

The architecture of Kibitsu Shrine employs the “timber framing” technique, in which wood is joined together without nails to support the structure.In this exhibition, by assembling miniature models—designed based on the actual architectural structure—like a puzzle, visitors can intuitively and enjoyably understand the traditional timber-framing techniques and wisdom that have been passed down through the ages.

● Hands-On Exhibition Using a Full-Scale “Chigi” Model

A full-scale replica of the “chigi”—a symbol of shrine architecture—has been recreated. This program allows you to observe the chigi up close and even walk underneath it, an experience normally impossible since it is located atop the roof.

By physically experiencing their actual size, presence, and the beauty of their structure, visitors can intuitively grasp the scale and techniques of shrine architecture.

原寸千木模型展示(イメージ)

Life-Size Chigi Model Exhibition (Image)

●“Digital Kibitsu Shrine” Recreated in Minecraft

The National Treasure Main Hall and Worship Hall of Kibitsu Shrine have been recreated in the world of the popular game “Minecraft.”Students from the Faculty of Design at Okayama Prefectural University have faithfully recreated the Main Hall and Worship Hall based on high-precision point cloud data. Visitors can freely walk around the virtual space and explore these National Treasure buildings from perspectives that would be impossible in reality. This initiative is garnering attention as an example of utilizing digital archives for cultural properties.

● Life-Size Blueprint Coloring Experience

A giant coloring corner based on full-scale architectural drawings of Kibitsu Shrine has been set up. This hands-on activity allows both children and adults to enjoy learning about the structure and design of the buildings.

● Stamp Rally

We are hosting a stamp rally that visitors can enjoy as they tour the exhibition venue. The rally is designed so that as you collect stamps at each point, you’ll naturally gain an understanding of the exhibition’s highlights and stories. Those who complete the entire rally will receive an original commemorative gift available only here (limited to the first 300 participants). This participatory experience seamlessly combines “learning, walking, and collecting.”

● Upcycling Workshop: “Making Forest Amulets”

Using locally sourced thinned timber, participants will create “omamori” (charms) while enjoying the scent and texture of the wood. This workshop offers an opportunity to experience the combination of local resources and design education.

*Held three times daily on July 18 and 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM (Duration: 1 hour)

■Background of the Project

This exhibition aims not only to “protect” cultural properties but also to pass on their value to future generations by “touching, learning, and experiencing” them. By reinterpreting the charm of National Treasure architecture through contemporary design methods, we will create a new space for cultural experiences where traditional culture meets digital technology, and local resources intersect with design education, thereby conveying unprecedented value.

■Exhibition Title

Kibitsu Shrine’s “Hands-On” Design Exhibition

July 14 (Tue) – 19 (Sun), 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (until 4:00 PM on the final day)

■Content

600-inch video experience (point cloud data exhibition), full-scale chigi model exhibition, timber-framing workshop, full-scale architectural drawing coloring activity, digital recreation of Kibitsu Shrine in Minecraft, “Mori no Omamori” workshop, stamp rally, and more

■Organizers: Kibitsu Shrine, Faculty of Design, Okayama Prefectural University

■In cooperation with: Technopro Construction Co., Ltd., Maruo-gumi Co., Ltd.

吉備津神社国宝本殿・拝殿 1