Starting June 6, 2026 — a date known in Japan as "Frog Day" (カエルの日) — Nara Ikimono Museum, located on the 4th floor of the Mi-Nara shopping complex in Nara City, is hosting a rainy season limited special exhibition called "Frog Shrine" (カエル神社).
A Shrine for Frog Lovers
The exhibition space features decorations representing the sound of falling rain, with countless hanging ornaments cascading from the ceiling. Stepping through a blue torii gate, visitors discover a small shrine surrounded by hydrangeas. Frogs that love the rain inhabit this special shrine, and guests can even press their hands together in prayer at the offertory box before them — making for a one-of-a-kind rainy season experience.
Frogs on Display
The exhibition features two species of frogs: the Miyako Hikigaeru toad and the Tonosama Frog.
Kaeromikuji Fortune Telling
A highlight of the Frog Shrine visit is the "Kaeromikuji" — fortune-telling figurines shaped like frogs. Inside each frog figurine is a haiku related to frogs along with a lucky message. After drawing your fortune, the figurine can be taken home as a good-luck charm. (500 yen per draw)
Limited-Time Workshop: Original Gel Candle Making
During the exhibition period, a gel candle-making workshop will be held on June 20 (Saturday) and June 21 (Sunday) only. Participants choose their preferred colored sand and glass ornaments, then pour in transparent gel to complete their own original candle. The process is simple enough for children from around age 3, making it enjoyable for all ages. (from 1,430 yen per piece)
NARA IKIMONO MUSEUM
- Open since: April 28, 2023
- Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM)
- Admission: Adults 1,300 yen / Elementary school children 800 yen / Seniors (age 65+) 800 yen / Preschoolers (age 4 to under elementary school age) 300 yen / Age 3 and under: Free
- Location: Mi-Nara 4F, 1-3-1 Nijo Dairo Minami, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
