Japanese Wooden Play Experience – Pop-Up Downtown in June
Families and visitors to downtown Hot Springs will have the opportunity to experience a one-of-a-kind interactive play attraction this summer as Moku Playland opens June 1 for a special month-long pop-up experience. This special exhibit 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 visits to Hot Springs in 2024 and 2025 , which welcomed more than thousands visitors, the exhibit has returned in an expanded form to downtown Hot Springs. This year’s installation spans approximately 1,600 square feet and provides even more opportunities for interactive learning and meaningful engagement.
Hours
June 1 – 30
- Thursday – Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Closed on Wednesday
What to Expect
Hanamaki Mokuiku Playland transforms the downtown storefront 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.
Tickets can be purchased at the door or pre-purchased on Eventbrite.
- $8 for children
- $10 for adults (13 and older)
- Weekday Passport: $24 children | $30 adults
A Partnership That Builds Bridges
The exhibit is presented through the partnership of the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation and the Hanamaki Toy Museum team from Japan. Now in its 33rd year, the Sister City relationship continues to foster meaningful cultural exchange, educational opportunities, and community connection.
If you would like to volunteer, visit SignUp Genius and select the hours you would like to join in the fun.