A walk-around through the legendary artist, photographer and architect, Hiroshi Sugimoto’s Enoura Observatory. Situated on the foothills of Enoura, in the Kataura District of Odawara; this is the place where Mr. Sugimoto had his earliest childhood memories. Specifically his first memory of feeling “human,” as he looked out into the massive ocean vista from the old Tokaido line train. This is the humbling moment where you realize how tiny you are compared to this universe, and I think most people have that moment at least once in their lives. I’ve had at least five on this trip.

This great architectural feat sits on foothills in between citrus tree groves, bamboo forests and the pacific ocean. It features a nuanced combination of natural elements with modern and medieval architecture. The result is a stunning space that feels epic, yet peaceful and safe. The massive glass windows inside the main structure display the natural elements around you like an art gallery. The colors from the changing fall leaves contrast with the color of the massive ocean vista and sky to give you a sensory overload that somehow feels peaceful at the same time. If you walk to the outskirts of the buildings you’re greeted by a dense forest of giant bamboo trees that sway and sing as the wind blows. Situated next to the forest are fields of citrus trees that get to enjoy the epic vista of the Pacific Ocean 24/7. How lucky are these trees?