UNICEF House Summer Family Event: 'Chi-kyu Passport' Panel and Original Art Exhibition – Exploring Peace Through Picture Books That Connect Across Borders

【July 16, 2026 – Tokyo】

The Japan Committee for UNICEF will host the summer event 'Chi-kyu Passport' Panel and Original Art Exhibition at UNICEF House (Minato-ku, Tokyo) from July 21 to August 31. The exhibition will showcase original artworks by participating illustrators and informational panels introducing the entire 'Chi-kyu Passport' project. Admission is free and can be enjoyed together with the permanent exhibition at UNICEF House.

Conflicts and confrontations continue around the world, threatening children's right to live in peace. In this context, the exhibition aims to provide children with an opportunity to reflect on 'peace' and the importance of connection across national and cultural boundaries through the medium of picture books.

A Message of Peace Connected Through Picture Books

'Chi-kyu Passport' is a picture book born from concern for children affected by war in Ukraine. Twenty-four picture book artists from Japan and abroad each illustrated an 'imaginary country' for children, which were then connected to form a single accordion-style picture book. The work conveys to children the importance of mutual recognition and connection among people with different cultures and values, as well as the message that we should be free to travel anywhere on Earth, beyond borders.

Even today, many children around the world face difficult circumstances due to division and conflict. This exhibition offers visitors a chance to empathize with children in distant countries through picture books, reflect on living together while respecting diversity, and consider how to build a peaceful future.

Exhibitions and Workshops to Meet Children Around the World

The venue will display original artworks by participating illustrators, including Yuko Sasame, Eriko Ishikawa, and Shozo Tajima. The 'imaginary countries,' each expressing the artist's unique style and feelings toward children, are connected to form a cohesive world, allowing visitors to enjoy the experience of a unified picture book. Additionally, panel displays will introduce the entire 'Chi-kyu Passport' project, conveying the messages embedded in the work and its production background.

Furthermore, a 'Picture Book Library' will be set up, featuring picture books by the participating artists, offering visitors a chance to engage with diverse cultures, values, and children's perspectives. By viewing these exhibits alongside the permanent displays at UNICEF House, visitors can deepen their understanding of the situations and rights of children worldwide.

On August 6, a workshop will be held with picture book artists Eriko Ishikawa and Yuko Sasame as instructors, where children will create their own 'Chi-kyu Passport' (first-come, first-served; registration now closed). The workshop aims to help children reflect on their connection with the world while experiencing the joy of creative expression.

Learning about children in distant countries, accepting differences, and exercising imagination—these are the first steps toward building a peaceful future. We hope this exhibition will inspire each visitor to encounter, connect with, and reflect on peace and children around the world.

'Chi-kyu Passport' Panel and Original Art Exhibition

Period: July 21 (Tue), 2026 – August 31 (Mon)

Venue: UNICEF House (4-6-12 Takana, Minato-ku, Tokyo)

Admission: Free

Cooperation: BL Publishing, Yuriko Hiramatsu

About UNICEF House

UNICEF House is an exhibition facility operated by the Japan Committee for UNICEF, themed 'A Place to Meet the World's Children.' It offers experiential learning about the situations of children worldwide and UNICEF's relief and development activities.

· Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10:00–17:00

(Closed: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)

· Access: Approximately 7 minutes on foot from JR or Keikyu Shinagawa Station

For details, please visit the official UNICEF House website: https://unicefhouse.jp/

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About UNICEF

UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) is a United Nations agency working to promote the rights and well-being of every child. Currently operating in around 190 countries and regions*, UNICEF collaborates with numerous partners to turn its mission into concrete actions in various forms. With a particular focus on supporting children in the most difficult circumstances, UNICEF works everywhere around the world for every child. UNICEF's programs are funded entirely by voluntary contributions from individuals, corporations, organizations, and governments. (https://www.unicef.org)

*Includes the 32 countries and regions where UNICEF National Committees (UNICEF Associations) operate

About the Japan Committee for UNICEF

The Japan Committee for UNICEF is a public interest foundation and one of 32 UNICEF National Committees in developed countries and regions. As the only civilian organization representing UNICEF in Japan, it is responsible for public outreach, fundraising, and advocacy for UNICEF's activities. (https://www.unicef.or.jp)