September 20, – December 21, 2025

The region of Central and South America is considered to be the birthplace of tobacco. The tobacco plant is believed to have originated in the Andes Mountains of South America, and has been utilized for a variety of purposes and in various ways by people throughout the Americas. From Mesoamerica in particular, tobacco-related artifacts remain, including pipes, and pottery depicting scenes of smoking, indicating that tobacco was used as an offering to the gods worshipped by local people, as well as an implement in rituals. In addition, the smoke produced by smoking was believed to serve the function of conveying divine revelations and prayers between the gods in the heavens and humans on earth. Similarly, the smoke from incense burned in censers was essential to rituals, and is said to have played a role in purification as well as predicting the future. These ancient practices are still relevant today, and in regions where indigenous cultures thrive, people can still be seen offering tobacco on altars, and producing tobacco and incense smoke as part of their rituals.
This exhibition is centered on the relationship between smoke and people both ancient and modern, with a focus on the area surrounding present-day Mexico. Items from the museum’s collection will be on display, such as vessels and smoking implements left behind by ancient people, as well as tools related to people and smoke in modern society, introducing a part of the culture surrounding people and smoke.

※Almost all information is given in Japanese only.

Please click here to read the exhibition brochure.

[General admission fees]

General (Adults and university students)
individual:300yen

Children and pupils of primary, juniorhigh, and high schools
individual:100yen

Visitors over 65 years old
individual:100yen

※Free admission for up to 1 accompanying person with disabilities upon presentation of a disability certificate (Mirairo ID is acceptable).

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  Polychrome vase showing a human figure smoking
  7th century - 11th century, Central Maya Lowlands

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  Clay pipe with foot and twisted stem
  11th century - early 16th century, Western Mexico