Libre's BL magazine Be × Boy is celebrating its 35th anniversary with the Be × Boy 35th Anniversary Exhibition: Boys in Love, currently being held at Space Galleria on the 8th floor of animate Ikebukuro Flagship Store from May 22 to June 22, 2026.
Centered around the theme of “Colorful Ribbons,” the exhibition traces the many forms of love depicted throughout the history of BL. Featuring carefully selected iconic scenes from 50 different works alongside newly drawn color illustrations by 32 artists, the venue is filled with what can only be described as a true “world of BL manga.” Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and heartfelt emotions that the genre has woven together over the past 35 years.
In this article, we bring you a photo report from the Tokyo venue of the Be × Boy 35th Anniversary Exhibition: Boys in Love!
Plus, shop boys' love merch, manga, drama CDs and more here!
Exploring 35 Years of Be × Boy Through Five Themed Areas
Entrance
Advertisements for the exhibition lined the staircase connecting the 7th and 8th floors of animate Ikebukuro Flagship Store. The stunning rows of artworks heightens visitors' excitement even before entering the venue.
At reception, visitors receive a random bonus mini art board featuring original artwork with a printed autograph and message (32 designs in total).
Those who win the advance reservation lottery are also eligible to receive a bonus postcard (32 designs in total), with the ability to choose their preferred design: another must-check perk for fans.
The first area, "Entrance," welcomes visitors with a massive book-shaped installation filled with celebratory messages from the artists participating in the exhibition. Its impressive scale alone is enough to surprise guests, and a closer look reveals signatures and illustrations left behind by artists who have visited the exhibition themselves!
Love-start-
Next is the “Love-start-” area. Here, a manga editor's workspace has been recreated, and true to the theme of "start," visitors can get a glimpse into the manga creation process beginning right at the desk itself.
Rough drafts and fan letters are also on display, making you wonder, "Is this really what an editor's desk looks like?" It’s an area that truly sparks the imagination.
▲The wall features cover art from past issues of "MAGAZINE BE×BOY".
Love-monochrome-
In the “Love-monochrome-” area, a vast space unfolds before visitors, filled with memorable scenes from Be × Boy works.
Everywhere you look, iconic moments and unforgettable lines are on display. Alongside heart-fluttering scenes are emotionally intense and heartbreaking moments, creating an area that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Love-colorful-
In the “Love-colorful-” area, visitors are greeted by a stunning collection of art from participating artists.
The colorful ribbons gathered at the center of the space beautifully reflect the exhibition's central theme, creating a vibrant and eye-catching display.
The passageway leading to the next area is filled with playful touches as well!
Items inspired by various manga are displayed along the walls, creating a riddle-like experience where fans can enjoy guessing where each one came from!
Love-future-
Finally, the “Love-future-” area is a luxurious space bringing together large acrylic stands featuring newly drawn color illustrations by a total of 32 artists.
Displayed alongside the acrylic stands are comments from the artists themselves, where they discuss the motifs and ideas behind their new illustrations. Be sure to take the time to read them while exploring the area!
Next up is the merchandise corner!
Don’t miss merch featuring the new anniversary art!!
The merchandise corner is packed with a wide variety of commemorative items, including iridescent acrylic stands, ribbon charms, heart-shaped badge sets, and acrylic sticks.
In addition, customers who spend 3,000 yen or more (tax included) in a single transaction will receive one random double-sided bookmark featuring an original illustration & kiss scene (32 types in total) as a special bonus gift.
The Be × Boy 35th Anniversary Exhibition: Boys in Love is currently being held in Tokyo from May 22 to June 22, 2026, with an Osaka venue also planned for the future, so fans should be sure to keep an eye out for that as well!
Packed with the love, history, and passion woven throughout 35 years of Be × Boy, this special exhibition truly feels like a celebration of the BL genre itself. From iconic scenes to newly drawn artwork and exclusive merchandise, it’s a must-visit event for fans looking to immerse themselves in the world and legacy of Be × Boy. Don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself!
(Translated from original Animate Times article by Chihiro Sasamoto.)
Exhibition Details
Where
Space Galleria
Address
animate Ikebukuro Flagship Store 8th Floor, 1 Chome-20-7 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0013,
When
May 22 (Fri) to June 22, 2026 (Mon)
Hours
10AM~9PM
*Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.
*On the final day, June 22, the venue closes at 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM).
*Opening hours are subject to change depending on circumstances.
*Admission is general entry; there are no timed or staggered sessions.
*Updates regarding the event’s status will be posted on the official event website and X (formerly Twitter).
