Artistic expression comes in a myriad of ways, from painting and sculpture through to music, dance, literature, and photography. That's not a comprehensive list, though – there are various other forms that art can take, and at certain destinations in Japan you can enjoy it in rice fields.
The unique art-meets-agricultural practice involves strategically planting different varieties of rice, and by using different colors and textures, intricate designs emerge when the rice plants mature.
The Tanbo Art event in Inakadate, Aomori, is one such place where rice fields are adorned with unique images each year, and the 2023 festival is set to include rice art depicting the iconic "Girl with a Pearl Earring" painting by Johannes Vermeer at the Inakadate Village Observatory, and One Piece themed creations at the Yayoi no Sato Observatory. If you plan to visit, please note that both venues have different operating dates – the Inakadate Village Observatory venue will operate from May 29th until October 9th (closed on October 1st), and the Yayoi no Sato Observatory will operate from June 10th until October 9th.
Admission fees for both venues are set at ¥300 for adults, ¥100 for elementary-aged children, and free for pre-school aged children.
Getting there
Both venues are accessible from Tanbo Art Station, which is served by the Konan Railway's Konan Line.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
