The first large-scale exhibition dedicated to Osamu Tezuka's legendary manga, “Phoenix” (Hi no Tori), will be held from March 7 to May 25, 2025, at Tokyo City View. Titled "Tezuka Osamu’s Phoenix Exhibition – Phoenix as a Symbol of Cosmic Life in Dynamic Equilibrium Against Entropy", the event will feature over 800 exhibits and delve into the manga’s 12 main arcs to uncover its profound messages.

Phoenix: A Lifelong Masterpiece

As one of Tezuka’s self-declared life works, Phoenix weaves an epic tale about humanity's eternal quest for immortality through the mythical bird whose blood grants eternal life. The manga alternates between past and future, exploring philosophical themes such as life, death, and reincarnation through a vast, interconnected narrative.

The exhibition marks 70 years since Phoenix debuted, offering fresh insights into its themes with biologist Shinichi Fukuoka guiding visitors through a new lens of life sciences. The display reimagines Tezuka’s exploration of the question, “What is life?”, while inviting audiences to ponder the story's unresolved conclusion, left incomplete upon his passing.

Handing Down a Timeless Legacy

At a recent press conference, Rumi Tezuka, Osamu Tezuka’s daughter and director at Tezuka Productions, spoke about her mission to preserve and evolve her father’s legacy.

“As Osamu Tezuka’s daughter, I feel it’s my responsibility to ensure his works transcend generations, no matter the era. It’s a daunting task, but also a part of my life’s work. While creating something new from his originals might feel like destruction, the core of Tezuka’s work remains intact. That’s what keeps it alive and relevant.”

She also reflected on her father’s creative process, stating:

“‘Phoenix’ is Osamu Tezuka himself. While his other works considered readers and magazine demands, ‘Phoenix’ began as pure self-expression, untethered from external influences. It’s Tezuka’s unfiltered vision, and you can feel his vibrant creativity shining through every page.”

Exhibition Highlights

800+ Artworks Across 12 Chapters
From the Dawn Arc to the Sun Arc, visitors can trace the series’ 30-year journey and its recurring themes of dynamic equilibrium and resistance to entropy.

A New Perspective on Life
Guided by Shinichi Fukuoka, the exhibition bridges biology and storytelling, offering a fresh interpretation of Phoenix as a symbol of cosmic life.

Imagining the Unfinished Ending
Fans are invited to contemplate how Tezuka might have concluded his magnum opus, using clues and concepts presented throughout the series.

Event Details

Event Title: Tezuka Osamu’s Phoenix Exhibition
Dates: March 7 – May 25, 2025
Venue: Tokyo City View, Roppongi Hills
Highlights: Over 800 exhibits, expert insights, and exploration of Tezuka’s unfinished legacy

Source : ORICON NEWS