Interview with Director Lupin
We spoke with Lupin, director of “Art Art,” about the facility.
A fun space for parents as well as children
How do visitors respond?
Lupin (honorific omitted)
The mothers seem to enjoy themselves even more than the children, and it’s clear to see how excited the adults get. That makes me very happy.
Parents sometimes play even more seriously than their children, or relax on the veranda, unwinding as they look out at nature.
The garden is open to visitors, too, so you can see fathers playing earnestly with jump ropes and kendama.
What do you look for when choosing toys?
Lupin
We choose toys that children can think about and play with on their own.
We provide toys that children can combine or use imaginatively, expanding their play as they come up with ideas themselves.
What kinds of ways do children actually play?
Lupin
When playing with a toy called “Mandala,” they might play house or combine it with other toys to build a castle.
Experiences and learning made possible by Art Art
What abilities would you like the children who visit to develop?
Lupin
I hope they develop the ability to create and explore play on their own.
Rather than having parents take the lead by saying, “Look, look, this is amazing,” we value engaging with children by following their interests. This helps them develop the ability to think for themselves.
Also, by watching their parents enjoy playing, children naturally learn that “there are ways to play like this.”
Has anything surprised you while running Art Art?
Lupin
I’m truly amazed by how quickly children learn.
They recreate at home what they experienced at the facility using toys they have there, or carefully observe and remember another child’s creation, then reproduce it beautifully on their next visit.
Children’s ability to think, express themselves, and learn through play is far greater than I imagined, and it continues to amaze me.
Future plans
Do you have any plans for the future?
Lupin
We’d like to make better use of the mezzanine floor.
We currently hold “Art College” on the first floor, but we hope to renovate the mezzanine and provide a more comprehensive place for learning.
We’d also like to make use of the rich natural surroundings to offer nature observation activities, outdoor programs, and classes.
Do you have a message for our readers?
Lupin
At “Art Art,” we provide a space where parents and children can spend meaningful time playing together.
Please come with your family and enjoy playing freely with toys in this traditional house surrounded by nature. We’d be happy if play could become an opportunity for parents and children to communicate.
From the Writer
I felt very grateful that there is a place to play in a natural setting where families can have a variety of experiences and learn through carefully selected toys, while making it easy for parents and children to communicate.
If you’re hoping to “give your child opportunities to grow” or “let them experience nature,” why not pay a visit?
Asobi to Omocha no Kenkyujo Art Art Information
| Name | Asobi to Omocha no Kenkyujo Art Art |
|---|---|
| Address | 2145 Yamada, Soja City |
| Contact | 090-1273-6150 |
| Parking | Available First parking lot: 4 spaces Second parking lot: 4–5 spaces |
| Opening hours | Weekdays: 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. |
| Closed | Thursdays and irregular days Check Instagram for detailed opening days. |
| Admission (tax included) | ¥1,000 per group (includes one drink) |
| Payment methods |
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| Reservations | Available Reservations required |
| Smoking | Entirely non-smoking |
| Restrooms | Western-style toilet |
| Childcare facilities | Nursing room, diaper-changing sheet Disposable diapers, changing table, and nursing room available |
| Website | Asobi to Omocha no Kenkyujo Art Art |
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