To commemorate the 30th anniversary of the landmark 1995 Ghost in the Shell anime film, the first-ever large-scale, comprehensive Ghost in the Shell exhibition has been announced for Tokyo in 2026. Bringing together content from every iteration of the seminal cyberpunk series is no easy feat. Visitors of the exhibition will be able to experience the evolution of this iconic series firsthand, from its manga origins to its anime adaptation. As anticipation builds, this exhibition is shaping up to be a must-visit event for Ghost in the Shell’s longtime audience and newcomers alike.
Ghost in the Shell has been a pillar of cyberpunk storytelling for nearly four decades, influencing countless works across anime, film, and literature. First introduced as a manga by Shirow Masamune in 1989, the franchise has since expanded into an extensive media empire, including critically acclaimed anime films, television series, and video games (not to mention the critically derided live-action remake). While not every iteration is a hit, the production studio at the helm of the latest Ghost in the Shell anime inspires a lot of confidence in its quality.
Ghost in the Shell Returns Courtesy of Science Saru
The Anime Studio Is Riding High After Their Recent Hit, Dandadan
A major highlight of the Ghost in the Shell exhibition is its inclusion of Science Saru’s TV anime, set to premiere in 2026. The studio, known for its innovative approach to animation, has gained significant acclaim in recent years, particularly for its adaptation of Dandadan. Science Saru’s unique visual storytelling and bold artistic direction have made them one of the most exciting anime studios today, making them an intriguing choice to helm the next chapter in the Ghost in the Shell legacy.
While details on Science Saru’s adaptation remain scarce, the studio’s involvement signals a fresh take on the beloved franchise. The exhibition will likely provide early glimpses into the new series, offering concept art, behind-the-scenes insights, and possibly even exclusive footage. Given Science Saru’s reputation for pushing animation boundaries with series like Scott Pilgrim Takes Off and Star Wars: Visions, one can expect a visually striking and thematically rich interpretation of Ghost in the Shell that honors its predecessors while charting new territory.
The 2026 Exhibition Will Feature Over 30 Years of Ghost in the Shell Content
Everything from the Original Manga to Science Saru’s New Series
The Ghost in the Shell exhibition will be the largest showcase of the franchise in history. Attendees can look forward to an immersive experience that celebrates the series’ evolution, featuring rare artwork, production materials, and interactive exhibits. From Masamune Shirow’s original 1989 manga to Mamoru Oshii’s groundbreaking 1995 film and subsequent adaptations like Stand Alone Complex and Arise, the exhibition will provide a comprehensive look at Ghost in the Shell’s enduring impact. As Motoko Kusanagi has become a style icon in her own right, many are hoping for a sneak peek at the Major's new look.
Ghost in the Shell's Sequel Finally Gets the Remaster Fans Have Waited For
Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence is returning to theaters in Japan with a new director-approved high-def transfer.
The most exciting aspect of the exhibition is its commitment to covering every major genre of Ghost in the Shell, ensuring that fans of all versions—whether they favor the philosophical depths of Oshii’s films, the episodic storytelling of Stand Alone Complex, or the high-octane action of Arise—will find something to appreciate. Additionally, with Science Saru’s new adaptation on the horizon, the exhibition will bridge the franchise’s storied past and its promising future. Keep an eye on the official Ghost in the Shell website and social media for further details leading up to the exhibition’s grand opening in Tokyo in 2026.
