Enoura Observatory

Perched on a hilly citrus grove in Odawara’s Kataura district, Enoura Observatory is a contemporary art facility with a spectacular view of the scenic Sagami Bay.

It’s a project conceived by Hiroshi Sugimoto, an NYC-based contemporary artist, and opened in 2017 after over a decade of planning.

The complex incorporates traditional building styles and methods, helping to both revive these dying techniques and give visitors a glimpse of Japan’s rich architectural history.

Besides showcasing Sugimoto’s work, Enoura Observatory is also intended as a forum to spread Japanese art and culture within the country and beyond and convey the essence of Japanese culture to the world.

The facility has a gallery space, performance stages, a tearoom, and more. Each element is designed for interaction and harmony with the site’s natural surroundings, resulting in a complex that’s a stunning piece of architectural art.

For admirers of Japanese art and architecture, Enoura Observatory is not to be missed.