TeamLab’s “Way of Birds”
Visiting TeamLab’s only permanent artwork in Fukui.
Cover photo: Admiring The Way of Birds — Seated Contemplation, digital installation, by teamLab, 2017, Eibokan, Eiheiji, Fukui Prefecture, Japan (2025).
Intro
Did you know there’s a permanent teamLab artwork in Japan’s Fukui Prefecture? At the community center Eibokan, in the city of Eiheiji, visitors can enjoy The Way of Birds — Seated Contemplation for free!
Eibokan & Eiheiji
Originally built in 1928 as the Matsuoka Town Hall, Eibokan reopened in 2017 as a community center to promote the local culture of Eiheiji, most famous for the titular Buddhist monastery.
Eiheiji or “The Temple of Eternal Peace” is one of the most important Zen monasteries active today, with over 100 practicing monks. Buddhist mentor to Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, Kobun Chino Otogawa trained here!
At Eibokan, visitors can learn about Buddhist practice, eat local cuisine like rice porridge at the cafe, and enjoy the Zen-inspired teamLab installation The Way of Birds — Seated Contemplation.
TeamLab
Founded in Tokyo, 2001, teamLab is an international art collective with digital installations around the world. Their work often draws from Japanese and Buddhist culture. They’ve gained a major following through social media for their photogenic and interactive exhibits.
In 2019, teamlab Borderless was certified by Guinness World Records as the “Most Visited Museum” by a single group or artist and it’s estimated today that one of ten of all foreign tourists in Japan visit teamLab Plants in Tokyo. The group’s latest institution, teamLab Biovortex Kyoto, opened on October 7th.
The Way of Birds
To enjoy the six-channel video installation, visitors are asked to trade their shoes for slippers. Cushions are also available to borrow, encouraging guests to relax and stay as long as their heart desires.
Like other teamLab installations, the video is rendered in real time. It’s a reminder that we must appreciate every moment, because it will never be repeated. As per the group’s description, “The movement of a flock of thousands or tens of thousands of birds is beautiful and mysterious, like a single giant life form.” The birds drift around the room like dandelion wisps in the wind. It’s a serene experience.
Access
Located near Matsuoka Station, Eibokan is just a 25-minute trip from Fukui Station, by the Echizen Railway. The facility is open every day except Tuesdays, from 9:00 to 18:00 (6:00 PM). The cafe is open from 10:00 to 15:00 (3:00 PM) and lunch is available from 11:30 to 14:00 (2:00 PM).
Fukui Reporter Disclosure
As part of the Fukui Reporter program, I am tasked with participating in local events and publicly promoting the prefecture. This is a volunteer position that allows me free entrance to a selection of museums throughout the area. The opinions I share are my own.
