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KISS and Astro Boy Collaboration: Classic Rock Meets Classic Anime in Harajuku

Last updated: 30 March 2017

From October 13 through October 31, Laforet Museum Harajuku will be hosting “KISS EXPO TOKYO 2016 ～ Jigoku no Hakurankai”! This is the world’s first KISS exhibition, showcasing valuable items and artwork that represent the American rock band’s 42 year history. The exhibit, which translates to “Hell’s Exhibition,” features a special collaboration called “Tetsuwan Atom x KISS,” between members KISS and the anime Astro Boy. Visitors to the museum will be able to view new and original artwork by Nampei Kaneko, the Supervisor of Tezuka Productions (the company responsible for Astro Boy). Kaneko drew inspiration from KISS album covers such as “Love Gun” and “Destroyer,” incorporating various characters from the Astro Boy series.

his unique team-up fulfils a long-held dream of front man Gene Simmons, who have been fans of the Japanese anime series since childhood. He has often mentioned his fondness for the Osamu Tezuka classic animation. According to Simmons, “Astro Boy brings back fond memories of my childhood. I remember jumping up from the couch and imagining I was Astro Boy - fighting dastardly villains, flying through the skies...the little robot boy who defended all of us from evil. ”

Not limited to Astro Boy, KISS EXPO Tokyo will feature other Japan-related KISS artwork, including paintings of the members made in a traditional ukiyo-e (Japanese woodblock print) style. There will also be plenty of original memorabilia, such as band costumes, guitars, posters, and even Gene Simmons’ iconic “Hell of Fire” sword. There is also a mini-stage set up, and a virtual reality tour of member Paul Stanley’s home.

In the spirit of Halloween, a “KISS Makeup Corner,” sponsored by cosmetics company MAC, will give visitors a chance to have KISS-style makeup applied by professional makeup artists. The offer is limited to just 20 people per day, on a first-come, first-served basis. A variety of KISS goods will also be on sale, including an “Atom Collaboration T-Shirt.”
This is one exhibit that classic anime fans and members of the “KISS Army” will not want to miss!

October 13 – October 31, 2016.
Admission: 1600 yen (1000 yen for students, free admission for children below the age of elementary school)
11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Last entry at 8:00 p.m. (October 13 only, opening time of 6:00 p.m.)