*AI Translated
In 2026, the TV anime "Detective Conan" celebrates its memorable 30th anniversary since its broadcast began. To commemorate this historic year, the "30th Anniversary Detective Conan TV Anime Exhibition" will kick off in Tokyo and then tour across Japan.
At the press conference on February 19, original creator Gosho Aoyama, Minami Takayama (voice of Conan Edogawa), Kappei Yamaguchi (voice of Shinichi Kudo and Kaito Kid), and Mai Kuraki, who has performed 28 theme songs and holds a Guinness World Record, all gathered together. We bring you a valuable interview in which the production team, who have walked together for 30 years, talk about their journey so far and their hopes for the future, as well as highlights from the exhibition.
[On-site Report] "Detective Conan TV Anime 30th Anniversary" Opening Ceremony
Voice Actors Minami Takayama & Kappei Yamaguchi Share 30 Years of Memories
Marking 30 years since the anime began, the two voice actors who have continued to play the same characters took center stage in the talk session.
"We've all grown older together, but in the Conan world, time moves incredibly slowly. It's not even been a year since he shrank. If we become too conscious of time ourselves, it might affect the characters, so we've tried not to think about time at all," said Takayama.
One of Conan's charms is the gap between his cuteness when pretending to be a child and his coolness when showing off his sharp deductions. Regarding how she differentiates these performances, Takayama immediately replied, "It's not difficult." "I instinctively decide whether to act like a child or just speak as Shinichi. Even when the animation isn't finished, I ask who's in the scene, and if it's not okay to speak as an adult, I change the way I end my sentences. We discuss this on set," she said, showing the weight of her 30 years in the role.
Kappei Yamaguchi, who plays both the popular characters Shinichi Kudo and Kaito Kid, spoke about how he differentiates the two: "Shinichi is more passionate and speaks intensely, focusing on one point. Kid, on the other hand, has a broader perspective. That's how I separate them in my mind. At first, Kid's slightly cheesy lines were really embarrassing for me (laughs)."
The First Episode Was Recorded Later! Behind-the-Scenes Revealed After 30 Years
When asked about the most memorable scene during the recording, Ms. Takayama answered, “The first words I spoke as Conan, when the light was shone on me and I said, ‘Huh?’” This is an iconic scene from the early days of the TV series, and from this topic, an unexpected behind-the-scenes story was revealed.
“Actually, episodes 1 and 2 were recorded in reverse order. After solidifying Conan’s character in episode 2, we recorded episode 1, ‘Roller Coaster Murder Case,’ where Shinichi appears.” (Ms. Takayama)
The fact that the very first episodes of the series were actually recorded in reverse order was revealed for the first time in 30 years. Even Mr. Aoyama was surprised by this behind-the-scenes story, exclaiming, “I didn’t know that!”
Gosho Aoyama Reveals the Relationship Between the Anime and the Original Manga
Mr. Aoyama looked back on how the anime and the original manga have influenced each other over the years.
“For example, Mitsuhiko was originally drawn with a bit of a mischievous face, but since (voice actress) Ikue Otani’s voice was so cute, I decided to draw him cuter as well.” (Mr. Aoyama)
Furthermore, regarding his involvement in anime production, he revealed, “For the movies, all the initial meetings are held at my house, I revise the storyboards and scripts, and I even draw key frames,” showing his deep involvement in the film productions. It seems the original manga is also influenced by the anime.
Mai Kuraki Remembers Singing the Conan Theme Song Right After Her Debut
Mai Kuraki, who holds a Guinness World Record for the most songs related to “Detective Conan,” including the 28th ending theme of the series, shared her most memorable song among the theme songs she has performed: “Secret of my heart.” “I was a 17-year-old high school student at the time. I had just debuted as a singer, and being able to sing a song for Conan, which I loved so much, felt like I had used up all my luck,” she expressed, recalling her joy at the time.
Highlights of the TV Anime “Detective Conan” Exhibition Revealed!
From here, we report on the highlights of the TV anime “Detective Conan” 30th Anniversary Exhibition! The exhibition space is filled with the weight of 30 years of history, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in both the story and the production process—a true dream come true for fans.
The entrance itself is packed with features that will instantly lift your spirits! In celebration of the 30th anniversary, the entrance area welcomes you with Conan Edogawa and other characters, all dressed in commemorative outfits and holding bouquets. Seeing all the characters gathered together is such a moving sight, you can’t help but applaud in your heart.
In the introduction area, you’ll find famous scenes from the anime’s opening sequences playing on screen. The exhibition is structured to let you look back at the journey from the start of the broadcast in 1996 up to the present, making it an irresistible space for fans who have grown up alongside the series.
What’s even more impressive is the display of the production process. From planning materials and character designs to art settings and even actual storyboards used in production, you’ll be amazed to see just how many steps go into creating Conan! The sheer volume of storyboards and animation materials covering the walls is truly overwhelming.
You also won’t want to miss the section looking back on the history of the theme songs. That song, this song… the memories just keep coming! There’s even a theater area showing a special movie exclusive to the venue, making for a truly satisfying experience you can only have here.
What moved me the most was the display of “memorial scenes.” Iconic moments that touched my heart and unforgettable expressions of the characters are spread out before your eyes.
There is even a photo spot where you can take pictures with Shinichi and Ran, as well as Heiji Hattori and Kazuha Toyama, making it almost too much to handle for devoted fans.
The exhibition also features a display focusing on the familiar "NEXT CONAN’S HINT" that plays after the ending, with a magnifying glass effect to uncover secrets. The playful spirit is taken very seriously here. As expected, they truly understand what fans love, down to the smallest details!
At the end of the booth, life-size acrylic stands are waiting for you. You can compare your height with Conan and his friends, or feel a chill from the intimidating presence of the Black Organization. Your photo folder will fill up in no time.
Exclusive "Detective Conan Exhibition" Merchandise All in One Place
The merchandise corner is just as impressive. There are over 70 items, including goods featuring newly drawn visuals for this exhibition and items inspired by production materials. From can badges and acrylic stands to clear files, there’s a full lineup sure to excite any fan. Honestly, your wallet might be in danger, so be prepared!
The Audio Guide by Conan and Kaito Kid is a Must-Listen!
There is also an audio guide available (700 yen). You can tour the exhibition while listening to character voices such as Conan Edogawa and Kaito Kid, which greatly enhances the immersive experience. It truly feels like you’re walking inside the world of the series, so this is another feature you won’t want to miss.
*Available in Japanese only
TV Anime "Detective Conan Exhibition" 30th Anniversary Ticket Information
Regular Tickets
Advance Tickets
- General: 2,000 yen
- Students (Elementary, Junior High, High School): 1,300 yen
Same-Day Tickets
- General: 2,200 yen
- Students (Elementary, Junior High, High School): 1,500 yen
*Admission is free for preschool children
*Students must present their student ID at the entrance.
*Some dates require advance reservation for a specific time slot.
Tickets with Special Bonus
Advance Tickets
- General: 5,500 yen
- Students (Elementary, Junior High, High School): 4,800 yen
Same-Day Tickets
- General: 5,700 yen
- Students (Elementary, Junior High, High School): 5,000 yen
*Tickets with special bonus include an "Acrylic Display Stand"
*Bonuses will be distributed at the venue
TV Anime "Detective Conan Exhibition" Nationwide Schedule in Japan
This exhibition will kick off in Tokyo and is scheduled to be held in various locations across Japan. Be sure to check the dates in advance!
Tokyo
- Venue: Tokyo Dome City Prism Hall
- Dates: February 20 (Fri), 2026 – March 29 (Sun), 2026
Tottori
- Venue: Tottori Prefectural Museum
- Dates: April 4 (Sat), 2026 – April 26 (Sun), 2026
Sapporo
- Venue: Sapporo Factory, Building 3, 3rd Floor, Special Event Space
- Dates: May 2 (Sat), 2026 – May 31 (Sun), 2026
Sendai
- Venue: To be announced
- Dates: June 6 (Sat), 2026 – July 5 (Sun), 2026
Osaka
- Venue: Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation Headquarters, Special Event Space
- Dates: July 11 (Sat), 2026 – August 16 (Sun), 2026
Maebashi
- Venue: To be announced
- Dates: August 22 (Sat), 2026 – September 13 (Sun), 2026
Hiroshima
- Venue: NTT Cred Hall
- Dates: September 19 (Sat), 2026 – October 12 (Mon, public holiday), 2026
Matsuyama
- Venue: Nankai Broadcasting Honmachi Hall
- Dates: October 17 (Sat), 2026 – November 8 (Sun), 2026
Yokohama
- Venue: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Building No.1, 2F Space & 3F Hall
- Dates: November 14 (Sat), 2026 – December 6 (Sun), 2026
Nagoya
- Venue: To be announced
- Dates: Mid-December 2026 – Mid-January 2027 (planned)
Shizuoka
- Venue: Kiramesse Numazu
- Dates: January 16 (Sat), 2027 – February 14 (Sun), 2027
Fukuoka
- Venue: To be announced
- Dates: Late February 2027 – Late March 2027 (planned)
*Venues and dates are subject to change without notice.
*For the latest information, please check the official event website or official X account.
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