teamLab: Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces

teamLab Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces is a nighttime museum where nature and art merge at Izura in Kitaibaraki, a scenic area associated with Okakura Tenshin, a pivotal figure in modern Japanese art history.

Deep within the forest, the artworks are created around former terraced rice fields that once became wetlands, making full use of the site’s untouched natural landscape. Trees, bamboo groves, and the old rice terraces are transformed into a mystical and otherworldly art space under the cover of night. As the exhibition involves walking through the forest, visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear. On the “Water Mirror Path through the Hidden Rice Terraces,” you will walk through about 3cm of water, so waterproof shoes such as boots and a towel should be brought along.

The museum is part of the “Izura Yukoku Onden Ato Onsen” complex, which also features free-flowing natural hot springs, cottages, and glamping tents for overnight stays. Value tickets combining museum admission and day-use hot spring access are also available.