‘Yokai Parade’ Brings Japanese Supernatural Monsters to Karachi

The Japan Foundation’s traveling exhibition

Yokai Parade – Supernatural Monsters from Japan

opened at the State Bank of Pakistan Museum

Culture Reporter

Karachi: The Japan Foundation’s traveling exhibition, Yokai Parade – Supernatural Monsters from Japan, opened at the State Bank of Pakistan Museum & Art Gallery on October 28, 2024, showcasing Japan’s fascinating Yokai culture. Organized by the Japan Foundation in collaboration with the Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi, the State Bank Museum, and the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA), Sindh, the exhibition runs through October 30.

Exploring Japan’s Yokai Culture

Curated by Yumoto Kōichi, Director Emeritus of the Miyoshi Mononoke Museum, Yokai Parade introduces visitors to the legendary supernatural beings depicted in traditional Japanese artwork. The exhibition features over 80 artifacts, including picture scrolls, Nishiki-e (Japanese multicolored woodblock prints), books, and statues, spanning ancient to contemporary times across four themed chapters.

Strengthening Japan-Pakistan Cultural Ties

At the opening ceremony, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, Mr. Saleem Ullah, highlighted the growing public fascination with Japanese culture in Pakistan. Japan’s Consul General, Mr. HATTORI Masaru, expressed gratitude for the Pakistani audience’s enthusiasm, noting how Yokai Parade celebrates Japan’s supernatural heritage from the Edo period to modern media. PJCA President Ms. Sadia Rashid, along with Yokai enthusiast and Pakistani fiction writer Ms. Maliha Rao, also attended.

Interactive Events and Free Public Access

Alongside the exhibition, visitors can enjoy Origami workshops and Ju-Jitsu demonstrations organized by the Japanese Consulate. The exhibition is free and open to the public from October 28 to 30. For more details, visit the Consulate’s website and social media pages.