160th Anniversary of Friendship Japan-Belgium event: Exhibition “Japonaiseries” at the Félicien Rops Museum

On October 18th 2025, the opening of the “Japonaiserie” exhibition was held at the Félicien Rops Museum in the Province of Namur as part of the 160th Anniversary of Friendship between Japan and Belgium. Approximately 350 people attended, including the Vice Governor of the Province of Namur, the Director of the Félicien Rops Museum, the curator, and the members of the public from the Province of Namur.

The exhibition featured paintings, prints, and other artworks related to Japan by Félicien Rops—a leading Belgian painter and printmaker active in the late 19th century—as well as works by his friends. It provided visitors with an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture of that era. A live performance featuring the koto and shamisen was also held on the day of the opening, offering those who had not previously been exposed to Japanese culture a chance to deepen their understanding of Japan.