Japanese School Uniform Chronicles: 100 Years of Showa!

Dive deep into the evolving world of Japanese student uniforms and the cultural narratives they embody at the Yayoi Museum’s summer exhibition. ‘Japanese School Uniform Chronicles: 100 Years of Showa!’ is the third instalment in an exhibition series that was last held in 2019, and focuses especially on how students have worn their uniforms.

Exploring the fine differences in skirt length, tie knots and pant width that once spoke volumes about youth identity and peer dynamics, the show takes in everything from the rebellious aesthetics of the 1970s tsuppari and sukeban to the ganguro and loose socks era of the ’90s. It traces how uniform styling has mirrored societal shifts and teenage self-expression, driving home the fact that uniforms have been a canvas for silent protest, community and transformation, as well as an evolving reflection of gender, conformity and resistance.

Over 100 real-life artefacts and artworks by contemporary illustrators bring this chronicle to life. There’s also exclusive merchandise, a themed café menu with collectible coasters, and even an interactive chalkboard display through which visitors can joggle their own uniform-related memories.

As Japan marks 100 years since the start of the Showa era (1926–1989), this timely exhibition is both nostalgic and forward-looking, highlighting the student uniform’s journey from tradition to reimagination in the present Reiwa era.