The “Galaxy Express 999 50th Anniversary Project: Leiji Matsumoto Exhibition — Journey of Creation / LEIJI MATSUMOTO EXHIBITION” is set to open at Abeno Harukas Museum of Art in Osaka, running from July 31 to September 26, 2027.

The large-scale retrospective celebrates the career of manga legend Leiji Matsumoto, creator of beloved classics including Galaxy Express 999 (銀河鉄道999) and Captain Harlock (宇宙海賊キャプテンハーロック). The exhibition originally launched in Tokyo in June 2025 and has since toured Fukuoka, Aichi, and Saitama before arriving in Osaka.

Exhibition Highlights

Visitors can expect more than 300 exhibits, spanning Matsumoto’s earliest pre-debut works through original manuscript art from Otoko Oidon, Galaxy Express 999, and Captain Harlock. A number of items will be shown to the public for the first time.

• Original artwork depicting Maetel‘s first encounter with the protagonist, as well as the memorable X-ray scene from Galaxy Express 999
• What is currently confirmed to be the last manuscript Matsumoto completed — on public display for the first time
• Vibrant color illustrations from across his body of work
• Tools and reference materials used during his creative process, along with personal belongings found around his drawing desk

Event Details

• Dates: July 31 – September 26, 2027
• Hours: Tuesday–Friday 10:00–20:00 / Saturday–Monday & public holidays 10:00–18:00 (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
• Venue: Abeno Harukas Museum of Art, Osaka