The origins of manga have long been debated, with speculations that its history goes far back into the 12th century, when pictorial scrolls are said to have first introduced the basis for right-to-left reading style. However, the history of manga still remains quite obscure, even despite its ever-growing popularity in modern pop and media culture.

But a visit to the upcoming manga exhibition may enlighten some curious fans. Titled Edo Kara Tadoru Manga No Tabi (literally translated as Journey Of Manga From The Edo Period), the exhibition will feature artwork dating from the Edo Period, when printing culture in Japan started to become more advanced. Through cartoonish paintings such as Toba-e (caricatures, at times depicting animals performing human tasks) of mid-eighteenth century Edo, visitors will get the chance to examine and deepen their knowledge on the evolution of manga culture throughout history.

There will also be Ukiyo-e paintings and other artwork from famous Edo artists including Utagawa Kuniyoshi and Kawanabe Kyosai, and works from the Meiji to Taisho Periods by Kitazawa Rakuten and Okamoto Ippei. Manga magazines from the Showa Period will also be on display, with a total of around 200 works to enjoy throughout the exhibition.

The Journey Of Manga exhibition will be held from September 17th to November 16th, 2016 at Chiyoda City’s Hibiya Library and Museum. It’s guaranteed to be a stimulating event for any history buff or manga fan.