The Time of the Samurai

This exhibition, translated and adapted from the museum’s Polish-language copy (the National Museum in Lublin has no dedicated English version of this page), traces the history and culture of the samurai at Lublin Castle - from their origins as a warrior class to the decline of the formation - weaving together themes of honour and loyalty with stories of intrigue and conspiracy.

The National Museum in Lublin on the exhibition:

The exhibition presents around 600 original Japanese objects drawn from Polish and international museum collections, including previously unpublished items from the SAMURAI Museum Berlin collection. Woodblock prints by masters Utagawa Kuniyoshi and Utagawa Hiroshige depict battle scenes, duels and legendary events, alongside warrior portraits and ukiyo-e landscapes.

What to expect

Beyond the martial imagery, the exhibition reveals the cultural dimension of samurai society - everyday life, religion, entertainment and art. Objects show Japanese craftsmanship, decorative techniques and symbolism-rich patterns, and a dedicated section covers the samurai’s presence in film, manga and anime. On 13-14 July 2026 the exhibition’s first section was closed for a display change while the second hall remained open - it is worth checking current availability before visiting.

Tickets, opening hours and current information are available on the National Museum in Lublin’s website.

Museum profile: National Museum in Lublin (Lublin Castle).