The "MOOMIN! Moomin Exhibition" opened at Matsuya Ginza on April 16th. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the birth of Tove Jansson, the creator of the "Moomin" series. Approximately 200 original drawings from collections such as those in Tampere Art Museum in Finland will be on display, including some that will be on display in Japan for the first time. The exhibition features original drawings and sketches for fairy tale illustrations arranged under four themes. Each piece tells a story, such as Snufkin leaving Moominvalley in autumn and the family's hibernation in "The Four Seasons of Moominvalley." The "Mysterious Creatures of Moominvalley" section showcases humorous portrayals of characters like Little My, Mr. Pretender, and the Snorks. Also on display are dioramas by Chiyo Taniguchi, a doll maker who was a friend of Tove's. Famous scenes from the fairy tale illustrations are recreated. Appearing at the opening ceremony, Tampere Art Museum Director Taina Myrhaljju conveyed Tove's message that people should be kind, open-minded, and adventurous. Finland's Ambassador to Japan, Manu Virtamo, also explained that the Moomins are an essential part of the image of Finland that Japanese people have of the country. "The world of the Moomins has a unique sense of serenity and a relaxed pace. By entering this dream world, we can temporarily escape from the difficulties of everyday life," he said. On the opening day, voice actors for the anime series "Moomins" Minami Takayama and Rei Sakuma, as well as Emiko Shiratori, who performed the opening theme song, appeared with the Moomin family. Takayama, who voices Moomin, commented, "I was impressed by the quality of the diorama (prepared at the venue). I hope you will come and find the little characters hidden in various places in Moomin Valley." The attached Moomin Shop will sell Moomin merchandise based on the original artwork, as well as items exclusive to the exhibition. Many fans flocked to the venue from the first day in search of items that can only be purchased here, such as mascots, mugs, T-shirts, and iPhone covers.

Admission fees are 1,000 yen for adults, 700 yen for high school and university students, and 500 yen for junior high school students. The exhibition is scheduled to be held in nine other cities across the country by May 2015, including Osaka, Hiroshima, Nagoya, and Sapporo.