The Enoura Observatory was completed in October 2017, it is part of the Odawara Art Foundation – an initiative set up by contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto in order to foster the advancement of Japanese culture by producing and promoting a space for the arts.
The idea was to create a space that can be used to promote art and culture in a uniquely Japanese setting, yet in a manner that transcends historical periods and genres. The space comprises a Noh (theatre) stage made from long slabs of glass set against a backdrop of wide ocean views, a gallery space, a tea ceremony room, strolling garden and platforms for viewing the sunrise during both the summer and winter solstice. It features a range of architectural styles from medieval to contemporary.
The Enoura Observatory is situated along the southern rim of the Hakone mountains, overlooking the Sagami Bay, in the Enoura district of Odawara City, which is about 90 minutes from Tokyo.
Very few guests can enter the space on any one day and tickets are very limited, with a waiting list of several weeks. Thanks to the generosity of two (newly made) friends though I was able to visit last week and photograph this unusual place. With thanks to Magda and David Rittenhouse.
