Enoura Observatory: Where Art Meets the Horizon

Enoura Observatory, conceived by contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, is a unique art complex nestled in the coastal hills of Odawara, Kanagawa. Opened in 2017, the observatory offers panoramic views of Sagami Bay and a space where art, architecture, and nature converge. Sugimoto's vision was to create a space that reconnects people with nature, time, and the essence of Japanese culture. The observatory features a variety of structures and installations, each designed to interact with the surrounding environment. The Summer Solstice Light-Worship 100-Meter Gallery is aligned to capture the sunrise on the summer solstice. The Optical Glass Stage with Amphitheater Seating is built to face the sunrise on the winter solstice. The complex also includes a stone stage, a tea ceremony room, and the restored Meigetsu Gate from the Muromachi period. Visitors can explore the grounds, discovering stones and stone sculptures from across Japan, and a bamboo grove with citrus and evergreen trees. The observatory blends traditional Japanese architectural styles with contemporary design, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich architectural history. The Enoura Observatory is not just a museum; it's an immersive experience that encourages reflection on the origins of art and humanity's place in the universe.