The Japanese pavilion at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was a showcase of Japanese culture, arts, and commercial products. The pavilion included a Japanese house and garden, a bazaar, a residence for officials, a display in a 17,000 square foot display in the Main Exhibition Hall. The display included porcelain, pottery, bronzes, lacquerware, furniture, screens, textiles, wood and ivory carvings, straw and bamboo works, and toys.In order to promote exports and obtain foreign currency, the Meiji government exhibited with the largest budget of any foreign government, with Saigo Judo as the chief executive.

The pavilion was a significant demonstration of Japan’s opening up to the west. The exhibit was a huge success, winning 142 awards.