Morikami illuminates the night with ‘Take Akari: Bamboo Lights’ exhibit

Akihiro Mashimo with his bamboo artists in front of museum’s newest exhibition, Take Akari: Bamboo Lights, now on display at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. [Photo by Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens]

As twilight settles over Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, hundreds of softly glowing bamboo lanterns now shimmer across the grounds, transforming one of Palm Beach County’s most treasured cultural destinations into an immersive celebration of light, artistry and environmental stewardship.

The museum’s newest exhibition, Take Akari: Bamboo Lights, is now on view through April 5, 2026, inviting visitors to experience a luminous tradition that has captivated communities across Japan for more than three decades. Curated by renowned bamboo craftsman Akihiro Mashimo, the exhibit features illuminated bamboo installations that blend contemporary design with centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship.

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In Japan, Take Akari — which translates to “bamboo lights” — began as a grassroots festival movement aimed at raising awareness about the importance of preserving bamboo forests. The celebrations have since become cultural events, combining environmental advocacy with striking public art. Morikami’s installation brings that same spirit to Palm Beach County, highlighting bamboo’s ecological value while offering visitors a beautiful nighttime experience.

Mashimo’s sculptural lanterns create a tranquil yet dramatic atmosphere, casting warm light across pathways and garden spaces. The installation allows guests to walk through glowing corridors of bamboo, experiencing a living art form.

Take Akari: Bamboo Lights, is now on display at the Morikami Museum. [Photo by Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens]

The exhibition is funded in part by The Jacarlene Foundation, JM Family Enterprises Inc., and Nobu Hotel Miami Beach. Admission to Take Akari is included with regular museum admission.

Morikami’s latest exhibition continues a legacy rooted in a century-old cultural bond between Japan and South Florida. The museum stands as a living tribute to the Yamato Colony, established in 1903 when Japanese settlers arrived to farm land in what is now northern Boca Raton. Although the colony eventually dissolved, one of its last residents, George Sukeji Morikami, remained in the region and later donated his land to Palm Beach County.

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Today, Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens spans more than 200 acres, featuring two museum buildings, an authentic Japanese tea house, three exhibition galleries, a lakeside café, and 16 acres of meticulously designed gardens.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road in Delray Beach and open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The on-site Cornell Café is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $18.07 for adults, $16.07 for seniors and military with valid ID, $14.07 for students with ID, and $12.07 for children ages 6 to 17. Children 5 and under and Morikami members are admitted free.