An organic EL element has a capping layer formed on a cathode layer. The capping layer contains a pigment that absorbs light that has a wavelength that is different from a wavelength of the light emitted from a light emitting layer, and has a reflectance that is higher at interface in multi-layered structure than a reflectance of the light emitted from the light emitting layer. The capping layer prevents incident light from outside from returning to the outside of the organic EL element.