The National Library of Panama will launch its 2026 cultural program with a special exhibition of Japanese calendars. The free event, organized in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan, opens to the public on January 6, 2026, at the library’s main building in Panama City.
This initiative marks the first major event on the institution’s cultural agenda for the new year. Titled “Travel to Japan Through Calendars!”, the exhibition will feature eighty distinct Japanese calendars for public viewing until January 30.
A Cultural Journey Through Time and Design
Officials describe the exhibition as more than a simple display of functional items. Each calendar serves as a curated window into Japanese aesthetics and tradition. Visitors can expect to see representations of iconic landscapes, traditional architecture, and nature scenes that define the country’s visual culture. The collection highlights how these everyday objects transform into artistic pieces, renowned globally for their high-quality printing and meticulous design.
The director of the National Library of Panama emphasized the exhibition’s role in fostering international cultural appreciation. “This partnership with the Embassy of Japan allows us to offer our community a unique and accessible artistic experience,” the director stated. “It is a vibrant start to a year full of diverse programming.”
“We are honored to share this facet of our culture with the people of Panama,” said a cultural attaché from the Japanese Embassy. [Translated from Spanish] “These calendars beautifully merge utility with art, capturing everything from serene gardens and seasonal festivals to modern urban life. They tell a story of Japan’s past and present.”
Specific themes within the exhibition include the celebration of seasonal changes, known as ‘kisetsu’, and depictions of traditional arts. The display will also feature calendars focused on the intricate art of bonsai, showcasing the miniature trees’ profound cultural significance.
Strengthening Bilateral Cultural Ties
This event continues a growing trend of cultural exchange between Panama and Japan. The exhibition’s opening on January 6 is strategically timed to engage residents and tourists during the post-holiday period, offering a free and family-friendly activity. Library staff anticipate strong attendance, noting increased public interest in similar international showcases in recent years.
The collaboration also underscores the library’s evolving mission as a dynamic cultural hub, not just a repository of books. This aligns with broader governmental support for the national library’s modernization and its recognition as historical heritage. By hosting such events, the institution actively promotes global understanding and dialogue.
For visitors curious about the context, the exhibition provides insights into the Japanese calendar system itself. While Japan uses the Gregorian calendar for most official purposes, its traditional calendar, with its poetic names for months and deep connection to natural phenomena, still influences culture and design profoundly.
Planning for the 2026 cultural calendar at the National Library remains ongoing. Officials confirmed that additional events spanning literature, history, and art from various nations will be announced in the coming weeks. The Japanese calendar exhibition sets a tone of international exploration for the year ahead.