Interactive Wooden Playland Open Until December 14
Visitors of all ages are enjoying the engaging experience of Hanamaki Mokuiku Playland: An Interactive Experience from Japan, now open at the Garland County Library Auditorium through December 14, 2025. This special exhibit offers six weeks of hands-on play and cultural discovery inspired by the longstanding Sister City relationship between Hot Springs and Hanamaki, Japan.
Since opening in downtown Hanamaki in 2020, the Hanamaki Toy Museum has been celebrated for its beautifully crafted wooden toys and its dedication to the philosophy of Mokuiku — “educational activities involving wood and trees.” Through this approach, children and families are encouraged to explore creativity, sustainability, and imagination through tactile, screen-free play.
Following the success of its initial visit to Hot Springs in 2024, which welcomed more than 1,200 visitors, the exhibit has returned in an expanded form. This year’s installation spans approximately 1,500 square meters and provides even more opportunities for interactive learning and meaningful engagement.
Hours
Through November 30
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Closed Thanksgiving Day & Friday
Expanded Hours Beginning December 1
- Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday): 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Closed Tuesdays
What to Expect
Hanamaki Mokuiku Playland transforms the Garland County Library Auditorium into a thoughtfully designed interactive environment featuring handcrafted wooden toys and play structures that promote creativity, problem-solving, and cooperative play. Visitors can engage with stations that highlight Japanese design, sustainability, and the universal value of play as a tool for learning and connection.
This year’s exhibit includes a nominal admission fee to support its sustainability while remaining accessible to families:
- $8 for children
- $10 for adults (13 and older)
Weekday Passport Tickets are available for frequent visitors – allow unlimited weekday visits throughout the duration of the exhibit
- $24 for children
- $30 for adults
A Partnership That Builds Bridges
The exhibit is presented through the partnership of the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation and the Garland County Library, in collaboration with the Hanamaki Toy Museum team from Japan. Now in its 32nd year, the Sister City relationship continues to foster meaningful cultural exchange, educational opportunities, and community connection.
If you would like to volunteer, please email director@hotspringssistercity.org or visit SignUp Genius.