Experience a unique sound art journey at Abbotsford Convent starting 10 July, inspired by Japanese urban listening tradition.
Ongoing activity
1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford VIC 3067, Australia
Free
Discover a captivating sound art experience at the Abbotsford Convent with the Japanese self-guided urban listening event, O to da te. This immersive activity invites visitors to explore 15-20 specially identified listening points around the Convent, each marked with distinctive ear stencils resembling footprints. It’s a meditative and therapeutic way to connect with the environment, suitable for all ages.
You’ll follow a map to each listening spot, allowing you to pause and contemplate the unique sounds of the Convent’s surroundings. This practice, created by 86-year-old Japanese sound artist Akio Suzuki, has been featured in cities worldwide and now brings a new sensory dimension to Abbotsford.
Perfect for families looking for a calm yet engaging outdoor activity, this event encourages mindfulness and a fresh appreciation of urban soundscapes.
The event is self-guided, so you can explore at your own pace and spend as much time as you like at each listening point. It is part of the WinterLIVE festival but will remain accessible beyond the festival dates.
- Start date: 10 July 2026
- Location: Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford
- Suitable for all ages, making it ideal for school-aged children and their parents.
No special equipment is needed, just bring your curiosity and a willingness to listen deeply to your environment.
The event takes place at the historic Abbotsford Convent, located at 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford 3067. The Convent is easily accessible by public transport and offers ample parking for visitors arriving by car.
The listening points are spread throughout the Convent grounds, providing a scenic walk through this cultural and heritage site. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather to fully enjoy the outdoor experience.
Maps indicating the listening points will be available on site, ensuring you can navigate the experience easily.
This is a self-guided event, so there are no fixed times or group sessions. Visitors can start their journey any time from 10 July onwards during the Convent’s opening hours.
The activity is designed to be quiet and reflective, so please respect the peaceful atmosphere and other visitors.
As the event is outdoors, it may be affected by weather conditions. It is recommended to check the Abbotsford Convent website or contact the organisers for any updates.
This event is free to attend, making it an accessible cultural experience for families and individuals alike.
No booking is required; simply arrive at the Abbotsford Convent and pick up your map to begin your urban listening adventure.
For further information, visitors can contact the Abbotsford Convent or visit their website.
