From January 20th to April 11th, 2026, the Maison de la culture du Japon à Paris (MCJP) offers Parisian and international audiences a fascinating immersion into one of the most recognizable emblems of Japanese gastronomy: sushi. The exhibition, I LOVE SUSHI, held free of charge in the lobby of the cultural center in the 15th arrondissement, is not simply an aesthetic celebration of this dish; it offers a historical, social, and cultural exploration of a culinary phenomenon that has become global.
At first glance, sushi—those delicate morsels of vinegared rice, sometimes accompanied by raw fish—is ubiquitous in cities worldwide. Yet, behind this apparent simplicity lies a centuries-old history rooted in complex food and cultural practices. It is precisely this depth that the exhibition seeks to make accessible, inviting visitors to embark on an educational and immersive journey.
A journey through time and traditions
One of the exhibition's strengths is its ability to trace the historical origins of sushiEven before being associated with Japan, sushi has its roots in Southeast Asia, where techniques for preserving fish in fermented rice already existed. It was only later that the dish was adopted and transformed in Japan, to the point of becoming one of the cornerstones of its traditional cuisine.
The explanatory panels, accompanied by resin reproductions of various sushi shapes, allow visitors to visualize this evolution over several centuries. From primitive sushi made with fermented fish to modern nigiri-zushi, each stage of culinary transformation is highlighted. This progression reflects not only the evolution of tastes but also social changes in Japan, particularly during the Edo period, when the first specialized counters and restaurants began to proliferate.
Visitors discover how rural food practices gradually gave rise to urban forms of consumption, incorporating new ingredients, refined techniques, and distinct culinary aesthetics. Prints, photographs, and even videos enrich this visual and sensory itinerary which describes sushi as a cultural invention as much as a culinary one.
A playful and sensory scenography
Unlike some exhibitions that may seem austere, I LOVE SUSHI The exhibition stands out for its engaging and accessible design, suitable for all audiences. Family-friendly and playful, it uses striking visual elements: life-size replicas of fish, colorful representations of sushi sculpted in resin, and multimedia displays that punctuate the visitor's journey. These elements do more than simply illustrate the text; they invite visitors to connect with their senses and experience the link between nature, cuisine, and culture.
For example, one can see sculpted pieces representing fish such as the hokkigai or the odori ebi, whose artistic presence highlights the importance of the sea and fishing resources in Japanese culinary history. These works also embody the idea that sushi is not simply a recipe, but a meeting point between the natural environment, human tradition, and culinary innovation.
A cultural program to deepen the experience
I LOVE SUSHI is not limited to the exhibition itself: a parallel program of events enriches the experience. Conferences, culinary workshops, and documentary screenings are offered throughout the exhibition's duration, allowing everyone to explore sushi from different perspectives.
Among the notable events, several conferences bring together prominent figures who explore both the tradition and the future of this iconic dish. Renowned chefs, academics, and researchers take turns addressing a variety of topics: the contemporary interpretation of sushi, the regional diversity of sushi shapes in Japan, and the innovations and flavor combinations that may shape the sushi of tomorrow.
Documentary film screenings complement these highlights, offering a cinematic perspective on Japanese culinary culture and practices. These screenings, often presented in their original language with subtitles, broaden the understanding of sushi beyond a simple dish, making it a gateway to wider cultures and human stories.
The workshops, on the other hand, offer a more participatory approach. Children and adults alike can learn to prepare certain types of sushi under the guidance of expert instructors. It's an invitation to get hands-on and understand through practice some of the techniques that make this dish so unique.
A celebration open to all
Accessible free of charge from Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 19pm, I LOVE SUSHI It is aimed at a wide audience, from food lovers to those curious about Japanese culture, including families and enthusiasts of culinary history.
The exhibition reminds us that, despite its immense global popularity, sushi remains deeply rooted in age-old traditions that deserve to be observed, understood, and respected. Through this educational, artistic, and interactive experience, the Maison de la culture du Japon in Paris offers a fresh perspective on one of the most consumed and imitated dishes of our time.
Practical information
- Dates: du January 20 to April 11, 2026
- Location: House of Japanese Culture in Paris, 101 bis quai Jacques Chirac, 75015 Paris
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 11h - 19h
- Exhibition entrance: for free
- Additional events (conferences, workshops, films): Some require payment or reservation.
