A brand-new family attraction has arrived in Saitama this summer. On August 12th, 2026, the Kobito Museum (こびとはくぶつかん) officially opened inside Aeon LakeTown Mori, bringing the whimsical world of Kobitozukan to life through an immersive, hands-on exhibition. It is the first permanent immersive exhibtion dedicated to Kobitozukan in Japan. Perfect for families looking for a last summer outing, the museum blends exploration, storytelling, and playful discovery in a way that feels uniquely “Kobito.” It will, of course, also be a must-visit for all Kobito zukan fans.
What Is the Kobito Museum?
The Kobito Museum is a fully immersive experience based on the beloved Kobitozukan – Japan’s “cugly” (cute and ugly) forest dwarfs- picture books. Instead of simply viewing illustrations, visitors step directly into the habitats where Kobito creatures are said to live; peeking behind leaves, exploring tiny hideouts, and discovering Kobito in unexpected places.
The concept is built around three themes:
- See the Kobito
- Find the Kobito
- Enter their world
Children become “Kobito investigators,” while adults enjoy the charming, nostalgic world-building that has made Kobitozukan popular for over 20 years.
Eight Themed Zones to Explore
The museum features eight detailed zones, each recreating a different environment from the books:
- Forest
- River
- Sea
- Cave
- Farm
- House
- Field
- Pond
Each area uses lighting, sound, and large-scale dioramas to create the feeling that Kobito might be hiding just out of sight. There are also kid-only crawl spaces and viewing spots, giving children a sense of independence and adventure.
Huge Merchandise Area – Free to Enter
Even if you don’t enter the exhibition, the merchandise zone is open to everyone and features:
- Around 300 Kobito items
- Kobito Museum exclusive goods
- Limited capsule toys
This area actually opened early on July 17th, and has already become a popular stop for LakeTown shoppers.
Location & Basic Information
Kobito Museum (こびとはくぶつかん)
📍 Aeon LakeTown Mori, 3rd Floor
⏰ 10:00–21:00 (last exhibition entry 20:30)
Admission
- Adults: ¥1,200
- Children (12 and under): ¥600
- Ages 3 and under: Free
- Merchandise area: Free entry
Crowd Control & Tickets
Due to high demand during the opening period, the museum uses online timed-entry tickets for certain dates and time slots. Families planning a visit during weekends or holidays should check availability in advance.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
The Kobito Museum is more than a character exhibit; it’s a playful, sensory experience that encourages children to explore, imagine, and discover. With LakeTown’s easy access and family-friendly environment, it’s an ideal summer destination for Saitama residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re a longtime Kobitozukan fan or simply looking for a fun indoor activity, this new museum offers a charming escape into a tiny, hidden world.
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