Tokyo is home to some of the most immersive digital art exhibitions in the world, thanks to TeamLab. Known for combining art, technology, and interactivity, TeamLab operates two iconic exhibitions: TeamLab Borderless, which has recently moved to Azabudai Hills, and TeamLab Planets, now extended until 2027. In this guide, you’ll discover what makes each experience unique, how to get tickets, and the best tips for making the most of your visit to these digital art wonderlands.
What is TeamLab? An Introduction to Tokyo’s Digital Art Phenomenon
TeamLab is a Tokyo-based art collective that uses digital technology to create immersive, interactive installations. Founded in 2001, TeamLab blurs the boundaries between art, viewer, and the environment. Their exhibits use light, sound, and movement to create a fully immersive experience that engages both mind and body. Tokyo hosts two major TeamLab exhibitions: TeamLab Borderless and TeamLab Planets, each offering a distinct yet captivating journey into the future of art.
TeamLab Borderless: A Reimagined Digital World at Azabudai Hills
After captivating audiences in Odaiba, TeamLab Borderless moved to Azabudai Hills in February 2024. As its name suggests, the Borderless experience offers a world where digital art transcends boundaries, flowing freely between spaces and interacting with visitors. With no set path, visitors are free to wander through rooms filled with evolving lights, colors, and sounds.
Key Exhibitions at Borderless:
- The Forest of Flowers and People: An interactive space where flowers bloom and fade based on your presence.
- Memory of Topography: A landscape that changes and responds to your movements, creating a unique experience for each person.
- Wander through the Crystal World: Walk through glowing light structures that react to your movements, creating a magical atmosphere.
In its new home, Azabudai Hills, the exhibition has added new features like Bubble Universe and Microcosmoses, bringing even more wonder and creativity to this boundary-breaking experience.
TeamLab Planets: Walk Barefoot Through Water and Flowers
TeamLab Planets is designed as a multisensory journey where visitors interact physically with the installations. From walking barefoot through water to wandering through rooms filled with floating flowers, this exhibition is all about engaging the body as well as the mind. Planets is a unique, immersive experience unlike any traditional art exhibition.
Key Exhibitions at Planets:
- The Infinite Crystal Universe: A breathtaking space filled with mirrored walls and hanging lights that stretch into infinity.
- Floating in the Falling Universe of Flowers: Walk through a dynamic projection of flowers blooming and falling around you as you move.
- Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and People: Step into ankle-deep water where digital koi swim around your feet and transform into flowers when touched.
Limited Time: TeamLab Planets Extended Until 2027
Originally scheduled to run until the end of 2023, TeamLab Planets has been extended due to its immense popularity and will now remain open until the end of 2027. As a limited-time exhibition, this makes it even more of a must-visit for art and technology lovers who want to experience something unique before it ends.
How to Buy Tickets for TeamLab: A Simple Guide
Tickets for both TeamLab Borderless and TeamLab Planets must be purchased in advance online, as these exhibitions frequently sell out. Here’s how to get your tickets:
- Visit the Official Websites: Go to TeamLab Borderless or TeamLab Planets to check availability.
- Select Date and Time: Both exhibitions use timed entry slots to manage visitor flow, so be sure to select a specific date and time when booking.
- Complete Payment: Follow the payment instructions for general, student, or child tickets.
- Download or Print Tickets: After booking, you will receive a QR code that you can either print or save on your smartphone for easy access.
Tips for Visiting TeamLab: Best Times and What to Expect
- Best Time to Visit: To avoid the crowds, consider booking early morning or late evening slots. Both exhibitions tend to be busiest in the afternoon.
- Plan Your Time: Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore each exhibition. TeamLab Borderless is especially expansive, with multiple rooms to discover.
- Barefoot at Planets: Since TeamLab Planets involves walking through water, visitors must be barefoot. Wear comfortable clothes and prepare for a unique sensory experience.
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the exhibitions. The artworks are meant to be experienced slowly, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the changing environments.
With its blend of art and technology, TeamLab Borderless and TeamLab Planets offer one-of-a-kind experiences that transcend the traditional boundaries of art. Whether you’re a fan of interactive exhibits or just looking for a unique experience in Tokyo, both exhibitions are must-sees. And with Planets extended until 2027, now’s the perfect time to plan your visit.
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