The Way of Birds - Seated Contemplation

The Way of Birds - Seated Contemplation is a Zen-inspired artwork by the art collective teamLab, known for its exhibitions around the world. It is located inside the Eiheiji - cho Charm & Culture Facilities "Eibou-kan,” which introduces the charms of the town alongside Eiheiji, the head temple of the Soto Zen school with over 700 years of history. The artwork can be viewed free of charge.

The title The Way of Birds refers to a steep mountain trail that only birds can pass through, a term used in Zen philosophy as a metaphor for leaving no trace. In an immersive space where the artwork spreads across all four walls and the floor, flocks of birds drawn in light fly freely, leaving countless luminous trails behind. These birds avoid people in the space and are generated in real time, meaning the same scene is never repeated and the imagery continues to evolve endlessly.

As the name Seated Contemplation suggests, visitors can also experience seated Zen meditation within the artwork. By quietly sitting on the floor and surrendering to the visuals and sound, you can lose track of time and become completely absorbed in this tranquil artistic world.