Abandoned Elementary School in Hokkaido Transformed into Sculpture Park – Capture Breathtaking Photos Here!

▲ A vast space of 70,000 square meters combines sculptures and the former elementary school. Arte Piazza Bibai is stunning everywhere. The photo shows the reporter’s favorite artwork, “Tenmoku” (tentatively translated as “Heavenly Darkness”).

Reported and photographed by Li Ziyi / Hokkaido

When hometowns face industrial decline and schools close one after another, what would you do for your hometown if you achieved success? Katsu Yasuda, an internationally renowned sculptor born in Hokkaido, chose to transform his hometown’s abandoned elementary school into a sculpture park filled with artworks, open free of charge to visitors. It has become the heart of Bibai City, bringing new vitality to the town.

▲ Upon entering Arte Piazza Bibai, you’ll see the first artwork on the small hill, “Myomu,” complemented by the red leaves around it like a painting.

In the past, Bibai City in Hokkaido was known for its coal industry. With the decline of the coal business and the closure of mines, nearby elementary schools also shut down one by one. At the call of local sculptor Katsu Yasuda, the abandoned school was transformed into an outdoor sculpture park.

Katsu Yasuda, born in Bibai City, Hokkaido, developed his career and continued creating in Italy, becoming a world-class sculptor. When he returned to his hometown looking for a suitable studio, he stumbled upon the old Eigyou Elementary School. He was deeply moved by the wooden buildings filled with traces of time and couldn’t bear to see the school fade away. So, he called on people from all walks of life to help “revive” Eigyou Elementary School. In 1992, the school reopened under the new name “Arte Piazza Bibai.”

▲ The wooden old school building now has its second floor as an exhibition space.

▲ The artwork that resembles a coffee bean is called “^0 Gate.”

▲ The reflection of “Tenmoku” in the water is particularly enchanting. The pure white artwork paired with the green lawn makes for perfect photos. (Photo/Wiselyprovided)

Arte Piazza means “art plaza” in Italian. In this vast park, there are about 40 sculptures. Not only is it free to visit, but unlike most artworks and art museums where touching is prohibited, Yasuda’s sculptures are even more impactful when touched, so visitors are encouraged to feel them with their hands.

Arte Piazza Bibai covers a large area. Outdoors, emerald green lawns are paired with various sculptures. You could easily spend a morning or an afternoon here — it’s hard to fully explore in just a couple of hours. The sculptures blend seamlessly with the surroundings, creating beautiful scenery. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll, taking photos with the sculptures, or capturing dreamy artistic shots, it’s a great spot.

▲ The first artwork you see after climbing the small hill — don’t hesitate to touch and feel its “essence.”

In such a beautiful place, it’s perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee. After climbing the hill, you’ll find a small wooden cabin café nestled here. Step inside, and you’ll see simple wooden beams and square glass windows. Japanese uncles chat and sip coffee in small groups, giving off the vibe that this isn’t your typical tourist spot.

▲ The small entrance hallway of the wooden cabin café gives off the feeling of stepping into a secret base.

▲ Japanese uncles sit here sipping coffee and chatting, with a lovely view before them.

▲ There are postcards at the counter too — pick a few to send home as souvenirs if you’d like!

The 70,000-square-meter space features pure sculptures, lush green lawns, and wooden school buildings quietly telling the history and art of Bibai City. With plenty of space, each sculpture is set at an appropriate distance, surrounded by trees and lawns that make them feel more approachable, unlike the often-intimidating aura of typical artworks.

In this tranquil space, you might occasionally hear the joyful laughter of children, echoing what Katsu Yasuda once said — that this place is not just an art plaza but also a kindergarten. Blending the ethereal art world with reality, the atmosphere here is truly unique. Without the heavy tourist vibe, you can enjoy a cup of black tea or coffee in the café, pick a few postcards, and embark on a light and carefree artistic journey.

▲ “Tenmoku” — every photo taken here looks like a postcard, absolutely stunning!

Arte Piazza Bibai

Address: Eigyoucho, Ochiaicho, Bibai City, Hokkaido
Official Website:http://www.artepiazza.jp/
Free Admission