Exhibition offers panoramic view of Doraemon's world

A Doraemon exhibition offering a panoramic view of the fantasy world of the blue cat robot will make its Chinese mainland debut in Shanghai on Saturday.

Formally known as 100% Doraemon & Friends Tour, the 38-day exhibition features multiple themed zones both outdoor and indoor in Shanghai's Jiang'an district. Open to the public until May 5, the show will display Doraemon's manga, anime, and movie universes, according to its organizers Shanghai JingAn Kerry Centre (JAKC) and AllRightsReserved (ARR).

Enjoying a worldwide recognition, the classic Japanese anime character Doraemon, known as a robotic cat from the 22nd century, was created by Fujiko F Fujio.

"I lived in Shanghai's Jing'an district for one year and a half about a decade ago. And I am so happy to return to the city along with Doraemon this time," said Jitsuko Katsumata, Fujiko F Fujio's second daughter, who is also current chief executive officer of Fujiko Pro, during the opening ceremony held on March 28.

"Shanghai always reminds me of the near-future cityscapes where my father set Doraemon's adventures. This dynamic metropolis radiates the same inspiring energy that motivates people to move forward. I'm truly excited to witness the wonderful synergy that will emerge between Doraemon and this vibrant city," said Jitsuko.

Building on the success of the 2024 Hong Kong debut, the Shanghai stop introduces exclusive new highlights, including Doraemon with Chinese elements, such as lounging with xiaolongbao, dressed in traditional Tang suits, and in a playful panda disguise, said SK Lam, founder of AllRightsReserved (ARR).

A total of 117 1:1 life-sized Doraemon sculptures are displayed, featuring classic and creative designs from the manga, anime, and movies. In the meantime, a 12-meter-tall inflatable Doraemon sculpture on West Nanjing Road added a unique touch to the commercial district, Lin added.

The exhibition consists of both paid and free exhibition areas.

The highlight of the paid zones is the 100% Doraemon Theatre, which would premiere the original exhibition animation of the Shanghai version of "Gian Recital World Tour" produced by Japanese animation studio Shin-Ei Animation. Infused with new elements for Chinese mainland audience, the animation offers a visual adventure with a distinct Shanghai flair.

The 100% Manga Art Exhibition Hall features eight themed rooms, creating an experience that transports visitors through time within the manga. Highlights include a reproduction of Fujiko F Fujio's Study, Nobita's Manga Reading Room, and the Color Works Area that showcases 17 original artwork replicas.

Free entry exhibitions include the outdoor 100% Doraemon Blue Carpet and the 100% Doraemon Manga Art Zone indoor.