Japan Unveils a Century of Craft With A Collection of Chairs From Danish Designer Hans Wegner
The exhibition includes the remarkable collection of Oda Noritsugu.
Words by Foli Creppy | 2 Minute Read
KENTAUROS YASUNAGA/ODA COLLECTION
Tokyo is set to host a unique exhibition dedicated to the work of Hans J. Wegner, the iconic Danish designer. The exhibition begins from December 2, 2025, to January 18, 2026, at Hikarie Hall in Shibuya, and will feature Wegner's most extensive retrospective—over 160 authentic chairs, including iconic pieces like the elegant Wishbone Chair (CH24), continuously produced since 1950, and "The Chair" (The Round Chair), famously featured in the 1960 televised debate between Nixon and Kennedy, cemented his global renown.
Hans Wegner, revered as the King of Chairs, revolutionized furniture design through his relentless commitment to simplicity. His philosophy focused on ceaseless refinement, dedicating himself to reducing forms to their purest and most functional core. Trained as a cabinetmaker, Wegner's profound mastery of wood and expert craftsmanship yielded designs that are visually striking and exceptionally durable. His mission was clear: to craft exquisitely made chairs available to all.
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The exhibition includes the remarkable collection of Oda Noritsugu, who has dedicated his life to the appreciation of furniture design. Awarded the 2015 "1st Hans J. Wegner Award," Oda possesses what is widely considered the world’s largest private chair collection. His admiration for Wegner lies in the unique ability of these chairs to provide immediate comfort—a testament to their ergonomic design and functional elegance. Oda's passion emphasizes Wegner's talent for merging masterful aesthetics with efficient production, offering quality that remains approachable.
This exhibition is not only for showcasing Wegner’s designs but also for its reflection on the deep cultural connections between Danish and Japanese design philosophies. Both traditions emphasize minimalist beauty—focusing on clean lines and simplicity, an appreciation for natural materials, and a commitment to functionality. Historically, Japanese art has significantly influenced Scandinavian design, merging refined lines and natural motifs, a phenomenon referred to as "Japonisme." Conversely, the minimalist aesthetics of Danish modernism have resonated with Japanese designers, exemplified by Tadao Ando’s use of Wegner's Wishbone Chairs in his workspace and his collaborative efforts with Carl Hansen & Søn on innovative projects.
The retrospective is much more than an exhibition; it is a cultural dialogue that invites viewers to engage with design history, appreciate the mastery of craftsmanship, explore cultural intersections, and find inspiration in simplicity and utility. For more information regarding tickets and admission will be available on the Bunkamura website.
Exhibition Details
Artist: Hans J. Wegner
Duration: Dec 02, 2025 - Jan 18, 2026
Fee: TBD
Venue: Shibuya Hikarie Hall
Location: 9F Shibuya Hikarie, 2-21-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002
Direction: Direct walk from exit B5 at Shibuya Station on the Fukutoshin and Hanzomon lines or Tokyu Den-en-toshi line, Direct walk from the 2nd floor passageway of Shibuya Station on the JR or Keio line.
Jul 09, 2025
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