Step into the world of board games
that goes far beyond
just opening the box!
URABAKO is a special exhibition highlighting unique Japanese board games
and the design craftsmanship behind them.
The exhibition will be hosted as part of "The Tenth Mosaic"
at the Institut Français de Tokyo (details below).
September 22 (Tue, Holiday) – 23 (Wed, Holiday), 2026
Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Institut français du Japon – Tokyo | Iidabashi
[ View Tickets ]
Organized by
Tokyo Board Game Club
Taking board games just a step beyond
where they usually belong.
We view board games not merely as things to play, but as unique design products.
Across Japan, creators are crafting countless captivating board games, each with its own distinct aesthetic,
world-building, and mechanics. Yet, opportunities for these creations to reach beyond the existing board game community remain rare.
That is why URABAKO brings together a diverse selection of creators and their works to showcase
the sheer diversity of Japanese board game design.
Just like browsing items in a design shop or admiring art in a gallery, we hope URABAKO serves as a bridge,
connecting board games with new audiences and new spaces.
Tokyo Board Game Club
LOOK
Get an up-close look at the artwork and components.
DISCOVER
Dive into the creators' philosophy and the stories
behind how each game came to life.
PLAY
Try out select games for yourself in the free play area.
TAKE HOME
Purchase featured titles right on the spot.
VENUE
THE TENTH MOSAIC
URABAKO is part of "The Tenth Mosaic," a broader game culture event
hosted at Institut français du Japon Tokyo.
ï¼» More about The Tenth Mosaic ï¼½
About THE TENTH MOSAIC
On September 22–23, 2026, The Tenth Mosaic, a two-day festival, celebrates video game culture at the Institut français du Japon in Tokyo. Centered around video games and what is referred to as the "Tenth Art", the event brings together creators from Japan and guests from overseas into a diverse program of talks, live performances, exhibitions, workshops, live drawing, and an indie game showcase, all while being able to freely explore the venue and enjoy food & drinks. All talks will be available in English, French and Japanese.
EXHIBITORS
Follow our official X (Twitter) account for the latest updates on participating exhibitors—stay tuned!
EVENT INFO
URABAKO — Behind the Scenes of Board Game Creation
Dates
Sept 22 (Tue, Holiday) – Sept 23 (Wed, Holiday), 2026
Hours
10:00 – 19:00
Location
Institut français du Japon – Tokyo
15 Ichigaya Funagawaracho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
(7-min walk from Iidabashi Station via JR/Tokyo Metro)
Google Maps
Ticket
General Entry: ¥2,000
With this ticket, you’ll be able to access the URABAKO exhibition, but also concerts, live drawing, and various exhibitions or workshops from The Tenth Mosaic event.
Check the website for more details/