I have been traveling extensively in search of unseen landscapes. By chance, I stumbled upon this place on Google Earth while in Tokyo, marked it on the map, and promptly flew to Oita the next morning to experience it firsthand. True to my expectations, the location was ideal, devoid of any man-made structures, with distant mountains reflecting in a serene pond before me. Upon meeting the landowner, I secured ownership. Further research revealed the property lacked basic amenities like water and electricity, which only fueled my excitement.
Inspired by the untouched beauty of the landscape, we contemplated how to create an unforgettable experience amidst its natural simplicity. This marked the beginning of the “IROA” project.

I was born on a remote island in Oita Prefecture, a place that I consider my original landscape. It’s where I first became aware of my surroundings as soon as I entered the world. This place holds my diverse roots deeply embedded within it. The word “HASO” likely originates from the island dialect, where it denotes a wharf. HASO serves as an infrastructure that not only protects lives from natural forces like high tides but also teems with fish and crabs, where children and adults alike swim together. It feels like a vast playground adrift in the sea.
This aspect likely influenced many of Danzuka’s works, which often bridge the gap between nature and human life. Recently, I discovered that the stone HASO dates back to the Edo period, used as a boundary wall for a fishpond where the lord would release sea bream for recreational fishing. This landscape has always been associated with playfulness. HASO remains integral to the FUJIHAKU® project, embodying this connection between nature and human interaction.

MHCP operates like a traveling circus, gaining momentum with each new destination it visits. At every stop, we establish “Herbman,” a human-shaped field that serves as an educational platform about the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. Earthscape, a landscape design studio, plays a crucial role in bringing this social enterprise to life, meticulously crafting every detail and activity associated with the project. Herbman travels the world with all his essentials packed in a single shipping container, engaging with diverse communities along the way. Through these interactions, Herbman learns and evolves, growing in wisdom and strength. Carrying his trunk (the container), Herbman spreads joy to children and promotes wellness to all he meets. This is the essence of our vision: Herbman’s journeys may be unpredictable, but his mission to inspire and educate will endure indefinitely.

Herbman is a person-shaped herb garden.Various herbs are planted in this garden. Herbs are planted on Herbman’s body according to their effects: for example, herbs that aid digestion are planted in the stomach area, and herbs that work to relieve shoulder stiffness are planted in the shoulder area. In this way, Herbman acts as a kind of herb dictionary.Just by looking at Herbman, people can learn which herbs work for their trouble spots.We also plant herbs that grow naturally in the locale, so that our herbs are constantly changing, and a site-specific Herbman is born in each locale.

Through Herbman, people can learn about the effects of herbs. We also build a Herbman Café nearby as a means for people to apply these effects to their own bodies.The container that carried Herbman becomes the café space, and we offer drinks and food made with the herbs harvested from Herbman.We also use this space to hold various workshops relating to herbs.

After staying in one spot for a determined length of time, Herbman packs his belongings into a shipping container, and heads to his next destination. The MHCP project consists of a dialogue with nature – as symbolized by herbs and their uses – as well as exchanges with a variety of people and the stories born out of these exchanges.

The forest serves as a nurturing platform for diverse life forms. Recognizing its potential as a stage for Shizuoka’s vibrant growth, we envisioned a new office building to symbolize this progress—a “broadcasting station in the forest.” Designed to blend seamlessly with its lush surroundings, the office features a working environment that extends onto terraces immersed in nature. At the heart of the design is a sculptural installation situated amidst a water feature, enriching the cityscape with elements like a river-bound boat, cascading waterfall, and an ethereal riverside castle. Dominating the entrance is a sphere intricately carved with an aerial view of modern-day Shizuoka, crowned by a three-dimensional sculpture depicting Mount Fuji and the Daiichi-TV tower. Symbolizing Fuji’s ancient eruptions, the new Daiichi I- TV office stands as a testament to this historic backdrop.
The memories of excitement and inspiration emanating from Daiichi I-TV will forever resonate across Shizuoka, etching themselves indelibly into the hearts of its people.

Emile Gallé, the primary artist featured in the museum’s collection, had a deep affection for plants, which he frequently incorporated into the glass vessels he crafted. At the heart of the museum, a garden inspired by Emile Gallé faithfully reconstructs his botanical worldview. This garden serves as the focal point of the building, mirroring its seascape and islands in the architecture, with seasonal plantings harmonizing with the exterior wall colors. This integration creates a unique landscape where art, architecture, and nature intertwine seamlessly.

During the redevelopment of the Shibuya Station area, a line was drawn on the ground marking a new beginning. This location serves as the starting point for a revitalized Shibuya, fostering connections between people and nature, enriching both mind and body. The resulting excitement and emotion forge stronger bonds among people worldwide, driving cultural and creative growth within the city.
MIYASHITA PARK, as a diverse and inclusive space, embraces individuals’ uniqueness, forming teams that spark new movements capable of changing the world. Visit MIYASHITA PARK in Shibuya, where the power of communication thrives uniquely. Responsible for design oversight of MIYASHITA PARK’s facility concept, architectural design, commercial environment design, and landscape design.
Additionally, the park area features furniture known as “OUTSIDER.”

This sculptural piece dates back to a period when the artist was exploring Plato’s “Theory of Forms,” particularly the “Allegory of the Cave,” where perceived reality is but a shadow of the ideal world. When viewed from a specific angle, it appears to vanish from existence. Notably, the artist eschewed traditional sketches, opting instead to design solely based on numerical values. During installation, an error led to its accidental collapse and disappearance. Fortunately, only the numerical data survived, allowing for meticulous reproduction through laser processing.

Born on the windswept shores of Theo Jansen’s native Netherlands, the Beach Animals draw inspiration from their coastal origins. The exhibition took place at a museum nestled in a forest overlooking the sea in Oita, inspiring the concept of “from sea to forest.” At the entrance, a large fan creates an immersive experience, simulating the seaside environment as visitors walk against the wind onto a sandy beach. Positioned at 1450mm, the average height of human eyes, Horizon seamlessly connects sea and forest through its layout of explanatory texts, graphics, and exhibits. To emphasize the artwork’s relationship with the landscape, various elements from driftwood of Scheveningen to pine cones from Oita’s coast were displayed alongside the exhibits. Years later, while crossing paths with Theo in Tokyo, he shared that the exhibition design was the finest among all his global showcases—a compliment that deeply resonated with me.

Nestled within the serene natural landscapes immortalized by Taketa City’s literary figure Tanomura Chikuden, there stands a humble hermitage—a place that evokes the essence of the artist himself. Inspired by the landscapes depicted in his paintings, I embarked on journeys through untouched mountains and valleys, eventually discovering a breathtaking valley cradled within the mountains, where a divine presence seemed to reside. With the blessing of the shrine’s priest, guardian of the sacred mountain, I gathered driftwood, fallen trees, and aged lumber to quietly erect the hermitage. Crafted by a calligrapher descended from Kusakari Shoukoku, a cherished disciple of Tanomura Chikuden, this hermitage stands as a testament to quiet reverence. “LUTEN,” a project under ‘FUJIHAKU®,’ is an artistic endeavor that harmonizes people with landscapes, connecting past and present through its thoughtful construction.

Perched atop a hill in Yokosuka sat an abandoned house. Its architecture aligned with cardinal directions, revealing hints of a bygone shrine. Rumor had it that its former owner, a reclusive centenarian, once inhabited its solitude. During my initial visit, ancient cherry trees bloomed vibrantly, and the garden exuded a timeless grace. Intuitively drawn to its hidden stories, I impulsively purchased the house without inspection, sensing it held life’s mysteries. One day, I stumbled upon nine killifish, likely once cared for by my grandfather, swimming in a jar behind the house. Inspired by their presence, I embarked on a journey to restore the house, appointing the fish as its guardians. Gathering aged timber nationwide, I meticulously reconstructed the dwelling, anchoring it with a 3100-year-old cedar at its heart. This endeavor, known as IKUSA within the FUJIHAKU® initiative, stands as a testament to life’s continuum, uniting time, space, and humanity.

HAKONE GORA
This site is defined by its topography shaped over 650,000 years of volcanic activity and its abundance of natural springs, including Owakudani Valley, the Hayakawa River, and glimpses of Sagami Bay through mountainous gaps. The architectural design embraces these natural wonders under the themes of “water,” “forest,” and “valley,” integrating them seamlessly.
The “forest” serves as an outdoor sanctuary amidst preserved greenery, perfect for forest bathing and immersive natural experiences. The “valley” connects to the Owakudani Valley in Hakone via locally sourced stone masonry, fostering a harmonious link between landscapes. Meanwhile, the “water” terrace hosts a dynamic water mirror reflecting Hakone’s ever-changing scenery. Glass artworks embedded within this mirror capture and refract sunlight, moonlight, and starlight, embodying an ecological tribute to ancient Japanese reverence for nature.

Imagine three pencils capable of redrawing the landscape of Earth. Each pencil extends a line for 50 km. As you grasp their combined weight of 18 grams, the significance of their potential dawns on you. What could you achieve with this gravitational energy, compressing 300 years of time into a single pencil? What would you inscribe in the annals of your future life?

We introduced a new brand in response to the absence of quality outdoor furniture options in Japan.

Legend has it that when people pass away, they ascend to the heavens. Three cenotaphs— titled “reaching for the sky,” “reaching for the moon,” and “reaching for the stars”—are meticulously polished and angled to mirror the sky above. Each bears the words “sky,” “moon,” and “star” engraved in reverse as reflections.

The world is connected by water.
This project is to think about the health and wellness of the world’s water while cleaning
up the Meguro River, which is polluted by sewage.

Renovation of the rooftop at Seibu Ikebukuro Main Store draws inspiration from Claude Monet’s landscape paintings, transforming into the Hanging Garden of Food and Greenery.The entire rooftop is covered in blue tiles, evoking the surface of water. A circular deck, parasols, and carefully arranged furniture mimic lotus leaves floating on water, providing a serene rooftop retreat. Indirect lighting illuminates the deck, transitioning from white to rosé and then to red as dusk turns to night. Combined with greenery on the walls and parasol lights, this setup creates a captivating nighttime ambiance. Visitors can delight in seasonal flowers, plants, dynamic light displays, a variety of culinary offerings, and ever- evolving landscape views, making each visit a unique experience.

We revitalized a building that served as a beloved perm shop since the Showa period (1926- 1989), preserving its vibrant period design, and named it PERMA. Here, there are no power lines and no gas lines. What captivates us is the nexus of nature, humanity, and time.Famed figures like the artist Tanomura Chikuden, the musician Taki Rentaro, and the sculptor Asakura Fumio have all left indelible marks in Takeda’s cultural legacy. I believe that the wellspring of creativity in every era springs from the rich tapestry of time interwoven by Takeda’s natural beauty and its people. As part of the ‘FUJIHAKU®’ project, PERMA signifies ‘PERMANENT’. Our aspiration is for this place to foster new inspiration that will pave the way towards a sustainable lifestyle in the future.

L’ASSIETTE PROJECT GRANDE MAISON KANAZAWA BUDONOKI
L’ASSIETTE PROJECT GRANDE MAISON KANAZAWA BUDONOKI This project connects the three landscapes of “people, agriculture, and nature” with a focus on “food” in the farmland around the restaurant Le Tonelles in the suburbs of Kanazawa City. The project aims to revitalize the area, where abandoned farmland is seen due to depopulation and declining birth rates, to pass on farming techniques, and to preserve the natural environment. The promenade, which forms a large circle around the farmland, invites visitors out of the restaurant and conveys the joy of tasting the five senses through hands-on agricultural experiences and workshops. Like the outline of a large plate (L’Assiette), it will become a symbol of the community.

An art installation work that represents the fashion designer matohu’s clothing concept of Japanese aesthetics as a “Japanese garden”.

The artist takes out tatami mats from an old wooden apartment and excavates a one- square-meter hole. This archaeological installation meticulously categorizes and exhibits all unearthed objects based on their depth and type, unraveling the ancient activities and memories encapsulated within the space.

The artwork’s theme revolves around communication and the global environment. Positioned 1 meter apart, a white start line and a black finish line symbolically encircle the globe, marked with arrows and numbers. This separation underscores the proximity of the lines to the last meter, emphasizing both the ideal distance for interpersonal communication and an awareness of the earth’s scale and environmental issues. The final meter of the global network is bridged through face-to-face conversations, handshakes, and facial expressions, fostering connections and environmental awareness. For instance, choosing a white bench in summer due to its cooler thermal conductivity highlights our responsiveness to seasonal changes. We envision that new students starting at the beginning line today will accumulate invaluable experiences through various interactions on this bench, enriching their social lives before they reach the goal line four years from now.

Circular plates integrated into different areas of high-rise condominiums constructed on Tokyo’s reclaimed land provide diverse insights into the origins of materials used in the building’s construction and the plants within it. These plates reveal details such as the country of origin and extraction date of the building materials, as well as the origins of the plants. The artwork emphasizes that our current comfortable lifestyle hinges on the relentless extraction and transformation of Earth’s resources.

Named after the Greek god of the sea, this commercial facility draws design inspiration from its maritime history and mythology. Situated on land that once belonged to the sea, the architecture incorporates motifs like wave-like curves, shades of blue, and marine life themes. The bridge leading to the Triton statue, a gift from Italy, is specifically painted in Ferrari’s iconic Rosso Corsa hue.

“Karesansui” is a Japanese garden style composed solely of rocks and sand, meticulously crafted to mimic the natural world while conserving water. According to the Sakuteiki, Japan’s oldest gardening manual, stone placement should evoke memories of actual landscapes, recreating scenes of mountains and flowing water. In the heart of the city center lies a parking lot for motorcycle enthusiasts. Here, riders, far from being contemplative monks, park their motorcycles, reflecting on the urban landscapes they traversed that day. They cover their cherished bikes to shield them from rain, transforming the scene into a modern karesansui (dry landscape garden). This creation evokes Buddhist principles of impermanence, where all things flow and transform. Asphalt, the base material, originates from natural sources like gravel and crude oil, embodying nature’s perpetual change. Amidst the bustling city, this karesansui park weaves a quintessentially Japanese beauty, offering solace and wit to our modern society.

A mirrored sphere floating in the air reflects the earth as it is today from all directions. A project to re-create our earth once again.

Visitors to BOATRACE discern the game through subtle shifts in wind, water, and atmosphere, attuned to nuances beyond the five human senses—a true 6th sense. “SIX WAKE ROPPONGI” serves as the venue showcasing the allure of BOATRACE to a global audience. This environment fosters moments of discovery and insight, where the 6th sense comes alive through various experiences. Designed to stimulate this heightened perception, it aims to attract many to engage with the excitement of BOATRACE.

In the atrium courtyard of a high-rise condominium building, a white garden is set to bloom, adorned with words that echo local landmarks and scenes from daily life. These words are strategically placed to inspire residents to weave their own narratives, projecting their emotions and envisioning personal stories. The design is crafted to allow English words to be readable from the elevator hall, while hiragana characters grace the kids’ room, ensuring a harmonious blend of cultural expressions throughout the space.

In every elementary schoolyard, a white wooden box known as a hundred-leaf box once housed weather observation instruments like thermometers and hygrometers. Drawing inspiration from this, the architecture of a nursing university mirrors the structure of a hundred-leaf box. Within its confines, artwork is strategically placed across 16 locations, serving as tools to observe nature and humanity. This installation aims to foster awareness of the unseen elements around us, such as subtle environmental shifts and empathy towards others—essential qualities for nurses in their practice.

The site, once a Japanese Marine Corps base rich in naval history, saw many of its facilities destroyed. In homage to those who perished at sea during the war, the design incorporates elements inspired by Saiki’s seascape and maritime vessels. Pavements, water features, and landscaping reflect these themes. Local limestone and concrete dominate the materials, while cherry trees lining the park’s central ring complete the “Wa” peace circle. At the heart of the park stands an arch monument forged from the same steel as historic battleships, symbolizing continuity between past and future, humanity and nature, and among people themselves. The planting of cherry trees was a collaborative effort involving local children, envisioned to nurture a future forest teeming with peace and vitality. Beneath the cherry trees, a time capsule was buried, embodying hopes for a lasting legacy of harmony and renewal.

Across the globe, humans have been quarrying mountains and erecting towering structures from their stones. Despite the accelerating pace of global warming, urban development continues unabated. Gathered from various corners of the world, stones are meticulously arranged here, transitioning in color from black to white. In summer, the black stones absorb heat, making them too warm to sit on comfortably, whereas in winter, they radiate a cozy warmth. Conversely, the white stones remain cool and inviting even during the hottest days of summer. This innovative design transforms the bench into a thermometer of sorts, where the temperature you experience varies depending on where you choose to sit, offering a tactile experience of global warming’s impact.

This installation delves into the legend surrounding Uryu Island, which purportedly floated in Beppu Bay on July 12, 1596 (September 4, 1596), only to sink overnight following an earthquake and tsunami. It incorporates old maps, documents, models, sketches, and materials such as stones and sand collected from Beppu Bay, aiming to explore and validate this historical account.

In the early 16th century, amid the onset of Europe’s Age of Exploration, when geographical understanding was still nascent, global expansion began. Fast forward to the 21st century, Tokyo’s Toyosu district, once a bustling shipyard, now evolves into a site symbolizing new discoveries. This transformation views the entire landscape as a metaphorical sea, with passersby cast as voyagers. Originally reclaimed from two former docks, this area blends “green,” “water,” and “earth” into overlapping waves. Cafés, art museums, and FM stations serve as metaphorical “islands,” while white benches adorned with foam and coral motifs float atop the waves. Here, voyagers navigate freely, surrendering to currents or steering with resolve, encountering new discoveries and connections. The site’s panoramic view of Tokyo Bay, its historical significance as a former shipyard, and its position in the burgeoning Toyosu community all contribute to a multifaceted project. This initiative aims to foster encounters and discoveries at various levels: discovering new lifestyles, rediscovering Tokyo’s essence, and uncovering personal havens. The landscape itself serves as a catalyst for exploration and meaningful interactions at every turn.

Eiki Danzuka, a landscape designer, published a concept book “EARTHSCAPE” from CCC Media House, featuring a selection of his sculptures, products, and landscapes.

BETWEEN SKY & SEA
In a pond nestled on reclaimed beachfront, words associated with the sky are mirrored on its surface. As the water ebbs, words linked to the sea emerge from its depths. This path across the pond mirrors the future trajectory of the city, while the water acts as a reflective surface, offering insights into its future.

Since the presentation of the five-colored Hakata to the Shogunate at this site, the landscape has been designed along five axes, each representing the elements of wood, fire, earth, metal, and water from the Yin-Yang Five Elements philosophy. The design includes a planting scheme featuring five colors, lighting arrangements inspired by a five-colored dedication pattern, and more.

“What does it mean to live as a human being?” As science and technology expand exponentially, we find ourselves humbly questioning the fundamental essence of human existence. The field of welfare and nursing studies focuses on empowering individuals to live authentically as themselves. Named HUMANIZED ART SCAPE, this project embodies the philosophy of the School of Nursing, which trains professionals dedicated to supporting human dignity. Using the human body as its motif and the five senses as its guiding theme, the project features five distinct installations spread across the canvas. Each installation is meticulously crafted to evoke sensory experiences—sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing. These art installations serve as a conduit for exploring the concept of “humanity,” fostering interactive experiences within the plaza. For students preparing to enter their careers, engaging with these artworks becomes an integral part of envisioning their roles in welfare and nursing. It enriches their academic journey and prepares them to uphold human dignity, preserve life, and nurture spiritual fulfillment in an ever-evolving society. The goal is for these students to evolve into creative individuals who champion these values, contributing to a society where every person’s humanity is respected and nurtured.

Bancho no Niwa
This urban plaza reimagines and revitalizes the lifestyle, culture, and rich history cultivated by this town, linking it with future aspirations. The name “Bancho” harks back to the Edo period (1603-1867), when Hatamoto (feudal lords) were stationed here to safeguard Edo Castle, and the period’s street layout still endures. The architecture and gardens are designed in homage to the samurai residences of that era, featuring gardens adorned in the intricate Edo-era “cloisonne treasures” pattern. Symbolizing perpetual prosperity with its interconnected rings extending in all directions, this pattern embodies auspiciousness and continuity. Our aspiration is for Bancho no Niwa to foster community connections and radiate positivity outward, creating a hub where people gather and from which harmony and prosperity emanate.

In the baggage claim area of Oita Airport, the rich seascape of Oita is vividly portrayed. Local residents were invited to contribute fish prints, which now adorn the ceiling alongside details such as the fisherman’s name, location, species, size, and weight of the catch. The floor is embellished with lines representing the swift currents of the Bungo Channel, renowned for its Sekisaba (mackerel) and Sekiaji (horse mackerel). The color scheme features calming shades of blue, chosen for its ability to create a sense of time passing quickly and induce relaxation during the wait for baggage retrieval.

The design is inspired by Oita’s attractive natural scenery. With a wooden deck that has height differences like the mountains that embrace Rokugo Manzan and a variety of plantings, we have created a new relaxing space where you can not only use transportation, but also enjoy the scenery and meals. Pictograms and sign graphics unique to an airport are painted on the walls in deep blue like the Kuroshio Current and yellow like the sun, further heightening the sense of anticipation as they lead the way to the shuttle deck. We have set up a camera spot where you can get close to the runway, and a lawn area where you can let your children play, lie down, and relax. At night, a line of light appears, and together with the light from the runway, it creates a fantastical space that is completely different from the daytime. The aim was for this place to be the setting for various dramas such as encounters and farewells, with the scenery of Oita in the background.

This doctor’s coat is a collaboration between ANREALAGE, helmed by fashion designer Kunihiko Morinaga, and Eiki Danzuka’s lifelong work, the Herbman Project MHCP. The Herbman pattern is rendered in green using photochromic technology, transforming its hue based on the intensity of ultraviolet rays.

Nestled in Uguisudani-machi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Dwelling in the Forest lies at the southern edge of Musashino Plateau. Historically, it was part of a forest under the jurisdiction of a government official during the Edo period, giving rise to its name, Daikanyama. Once traversed by a stream where Yingitobashi bridge stood, this land now recreates a transitional environment that mirrors its natural origins. Dense evergreen forests and valley woodlands flourish alongside flowing waters, showcasing the seasonal transformations that define Japan’s picturesque landscapes. The forest serves as a sanctuary, where the verdant foliage, birdsong, and babbling streams provide solace and healing. Revered as a sacred space, it inspires awe and reverence, bridging the gap between humanity and nature. Inhabitants find deep solace here, connecting with the forest’s vitality and wisdom, and envisioning a prosperous future intertwined with its growth. Dwelling in the Forest embodies a harmonious coexistence between people and nature, nurturing a symbiotic relationship that promises mutual growth and enrichment.

The architects had one goal in mind: to inspire children’s dreams. Initially, they designed the astronomical telescope resembling a robot, adorned with vivid colors and graphics such as numbers and warnings. Leading up to the observatory, a 10-meter corridor was painted black, lined with laminated mirrors to evoke the boundless expanse of space. After the astronomical observation, the corridor transitions to silver with mirrored surfaces, symbolizing the return to Earth bathed in light and fostering a sensation akin to that of being an astronaut.

ON-IKU
When strolling through Beppu, one cannot help but notice the vibrancy of roadside grasses flourishing alongside drainage ditches where hot spring water flows. While hot springs are renowned for their healing properties, they may also play a role in plant growth. To delve deeper into this relationship between hot springs, plants, and people, we established a laboratory. Residents were provided with plastic bottles and invited to share their favorite hot spring water and its perceived benefits. We collected wild weeds thriving near the hot springs and showcased them in PET bottles. Their growth was meticulously observed and documented under a light source mimicking sunlight wavelengths.

RE-BIRTH: Message from the Sky
Oizumi Gakuen area was once graced by a spring-fed pond, where the Shirako River, rice paddies, sluice gates, and water wheels crafted a unique aquatic landscape. Here, the local community flourished, cultivating a distinctive and vibrant culture amid the abundant blessings of water. Sadly, today, traces of this past have faded from view. This artwork embodies the intricate cycle of water and life, illustrating rainwater’s return to the earth to nurture plants and sustain forest life. Our aim is for passersby to reflect on the profound cycles of nature—spanning past, present, and future—and the broader environmental interconnectedness encompassing personal surroundings, Earth, and the universe. We hope this awareness fosters a sensitivity towards caring for water, greenery, and humanity. At its heart stands a bronze sculpture of an ancient cherry tree, crafted from a real deceased specimen, filled with charcoal, and inverted. At its base, a young cherry tree now thrives. The bronze and charcoal synergistically purify water, transforming polluted rainwater into clean nourishment as it passes through roots, trunk, and branches, nurturing future generations of cherry trees. The original cherry tree was generously donated by Oita Prefectural Ohno High School, which closed its doors in March 2002, symbolizing renewal and continuity through this poignant artwork.

Nature, Life, Humanity
“Humanity, as an integral part of nature, resides within the natural world and entrusts its existence to nature.”
– Susumu Nukada

Construction of a new lodging facility at Lake Ashinoko, Hakone.
The terrain surrounding Lake Ashi, shaped over 650,000 years by volcanic activity, hosts hot springs and a diverse array of flora and fauna, all bestowed by the volcano’s blessings. The earth’s breath, the ethereal sea of clouds, and the sunset over Lake Ashinoko—all embody the timeless drama of life that captivates and heals us, making this place a truly unique experience. Our project aims to transform this location into a cherished “bookmark” of unforgettable moments amidst breathtaking scenery, where visitors can reconnect with the richness of nature with each visit. Throughout the site, we have scattered “bookmarks” such as viewpoints offering panoramic vistas and rest areas serenaded by the soothing sounds of water. A winding circular pathway traverses the landscape, offering a journey filled with natural undulations and delights. All stones excavated on-site have been repurposed as masonry, dry streams, and landscape features, with stepping stones and stairs crafted from Nebugawa stone sourced from the Hakone volcano. The facility includes two spacious baths: one nestled within a forest enclave surrounded by seasonal foliage, and the other an open-air bath overlooking Lake Ashinoko. A visually stunning walkway in the parking area mimics the water’s surface, inviting guests into the ambiance of Lake Ashinoko and setting the stage for a leisurely retreat. Our goal is to provide an immersive experience where guests can unwind and savor the essence of Lake Ashinoko at their own pace.

The project site has historically served as a pivotal transportation nexus, seamlessly integrated into the bustling urban network of intersecting traffic lines that define its present-day existence. The landscape design here employs a dynamic fusion of two key approaches: a 1/f fluctuation floor pattern and an array of elements that appear to float amidst the city’s flow. These elements encompass greenery, street furniture, and architectural features that create a sense of ethereal suspension. Navigating through this environment prompts individuals to reconnect with themselves, a rejuvenating experience often overlooked in their daily urban routines.

Residing in Fujimi
Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, is a residential area where samurai residences once stood side by side during the Edo period. The stone walls of Mitsuke still stand, and Ushigome Gomon, the outer gateway of Edo Castle, lies closest to the castle’s northern citadel. Nearby, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, dating back to early Edo, and the cherry tree- lined Chidorigafuchi embody the area’s historical roots. Kagurazaka, renowned for its legacy as Tokyo’s iconic flower district, retains echoes of its Edo-era past, making it a cherished part of Tokyo’s heart. Living in Fujimi means embracing layers of Edo and Tokyo history. Amidst significant redevelopment, we aim to preserve and honor the memories of this land, enriching new lives that will thrive here in the future. Our proposed landscape design seeks to deeply connect Fujimi’s history, natural surroundings, and urban fabric, ensuring its enduring significance.

Legends and stories of the Darkness Festival, a millennium-old tradition in this region, have been woven into the landscape interiors and artworks. The interplay of light and darkness imbues richness and depth into our everyday existence.

Earthscape, the studio behind MHCP, had an opportunity in 2001 to join a volunteer effort constructing playgrounds in Drosh, Pakistan, near the Afghanistan border. This project aimed to enhance living conditions and provide safe play spaces for children. During our time there, we witnessed how children faced challenging social conditions, constant threats of violence, and extreme poverty on a daily basis. The events surrounding 9/11 underscored the urgency of humanitarian efforts for our team.
Equally striking was how closely these children lived with nature amidst their harsh circumstances. This connection became pivotal in the conceptual development of Herbman. We pondered whether our expertise in landscaping could create something that would give back to these children while fostering a deeper bond between people and nature.
This perspective led to the inception of the Medical Herbman Cafe Project—a multifaceted initiative including the creation of Herbman fields, operation of an adjoining cafe, and utilizing profits to build playgrounds. Herbman aims to educate visitors about our intrinsic connection with nature and the plants we rely on for our well-being. It seeks to redefine this relationship to promote healthier lifestyles.
Proceeds from MHCP fund future Herbman projects, with any surplus supporting activities benefiting children, such as playground construction, and other initiatives promoting global health. Initially focused solely on playground construction, our program has now expanded to encompass a broader array of social and environmental endeavors.

Jingumae, nestled between Omotesando, Gaienmae, and Aoyama, is home to “Jingumae Residence,” situated atop a hill. Embracing its surroundings where diverse cultures, especially in fashion, flourish and spread, the common spaces will be partially opened to the refined and charming neighborhood as a park. The landscape embodies a healing garden where residents can unwind as if in their own sanctuary, rooted in the concept of “urban living.” Ten themed areas (SKY / WATER / LIGHT / SHADOW / WIND / TREE / SOIL / HARVEST / COLOR / SMELL) are meticulously crafted to enrich daily life with trees, flowers, natural light, breezes, and water. Our aim is for residents to savor the essence of living amidst nature and discover the joy of harmonizing with it.

The earthwork corridor excavated within the housing complex courtyard provides visitors with an immersive journey through diverse natural transitions. Oriented precisely along the cardinal directions of east, west, south, and north, the corridor promises a unique spectacle: under favorable weather conditions during the vernal and autumnal equinoxes, a rainbow arches across the sky, offering a mesmerizing sight to behold.

Let’s stroll through the streets like scenes from a movie!
The Kawasaki Station area, once known for its heavy industrial presence, underwent a transformation with the birth of Lazona Kawasaki at the former Toshiba headquarters plant site near the station’s west exit. Designed with expansive roofs, numerous plazas, and 300 stores, the concept was to “create a town.” As landscape designers, our vision was for people to weave their own unforgettable life stories in this revitalized town. With the guiding theme of “Let’s walk the town like a movie!”, we crafted diverse life stages across the site. There are playgrounds for children, gathering spots for mothers with young ones, and event stages. Lazona Kawasaki strives to be a place where every visitor can step into the spotlight and engage with the city.

Mitsui Outlet Park Taichung Port sits adjacent to one of Taiwan’s largest ports, Taichung Port. Inspired by the vibrant atmosphere generated by containers and colors, the landscape features furniture crafted from logistics materials, breezy parasols, and graphical elements that enhance the harbor ambiance for visitors to savor.

Nestled amidst factory buildings, the plaza features a circular design devoid of corners, crafted to foster spontaneous gatherings among employees. It serves as a place where employees reconnect with the core tenets of Glory’s corporate philosophy: “Great work stems from the unity of the ‘spirit of seeking’ and ‘the power of all.'” The plaza stands as a powerful symbol, exuding a strong presence and serving as the central hub on the site.

The design concept integrates the timeless Japanese landscape and Heian-period aesthetics from the Pillow Book into a contemporary living environment. Landscape, art, and interior spaces are interwoven into a cohesive narrative, carefully blended across an eternal timeline.

JUNGLE PYRAMID (-Effort Leads to Achievement-) Athletes in the JUNGLE (competitive arena) tirelessly strive for excellence, dedicating themselves to honing their skills day and night. Their persistent efforts, cultivated over time, bear fruit, leaving a lasting legacy of remarkable achievements that inspire future generations. As their accomplishments ascend like a pyramid, they set their sights even higher.

SPORTS (exercise), NATURE (nature), COMMUNICATION (exchange) This artwork embodies both an athletic institute and a community playground, adorned with engraved quotes and competition records of 100 athletes. It serves as a hub where people can exercise, traverse, play, and relax. Citizens participated in planting seedlings, enriching the urban environment and strengthening the bond between individuals and this cherished place through a symbiotic relationship with nature.

This site marks the historic starting point of the Tokaido Highway at Shinagawa-juku. Spanning a long, narrow stretch with varying elevations, it mirrors the journey along the Tokaido Highway that commences here. Scattered across the site are follies representing seven landscapes one would encounter along this journey, each fragment artfully inserted within a 5-meter square frame. From a specific viewpoint, the stainless steel’s mirrored finish causes the frame to vanish from sight.

Two holes were drilled into the ground, strategically positioned to allow sunlight to penetrate and transform the basement into a theatrical environment. Dichroic glass is integrated into the stairs and floors, offering the chance to experience a captivating rainbow shower cascading over one’s entire body, if fortune permits.

When I first explored the area, it remained an untouched forest. Inspired by this, we envisioned a “forest sanctuary” and adorned the facility with elements designed to engage all five senses of our visitors. At the forest entrance, we installed an unopenable door to evoke curiosity. A bench was crafted by embedding a felled zelkova tree into stone, while fragrant flowers and trees were planted nearby. A small door was affixed to a glass surface, adding a touch of whimsy. Additionally, we constructed a staircase leading to a tangerine tree, inviting everyone to enjoy its fruits. Our aim is to remind people in their everyday lives of our profound connection to nature, which sustains us.

Drawing from his disaster experience, he has designed a motorcycle capable of withstanding earthquakes or tsunamis that may strike unexpectedly. This cutting-edge off-road motorcycle, touted as the world’s fastest, operates without a key and is equipped to transport camping essentials and extra fuel for emergency preparedness.

The stone walls of Edo Castle, once standing in the path of traffic development, were dismantled. Originally erected to ward off intruders during the Warring States period, these stones have been repurposed into a majestic staircase where pedestrians now freely traverse, over 400 years later. Adorning the staircase are etchings of old maps, ukiyo-e prints, photographs spanning from the Edo period to the present day, and the Western calendar. Those passing through here become time travelers, seamlessly journeying between epochs.

Various shadows of the city that are disappearing due to redevelopment are photographed, recorded, and carved like real shadows on the chairs of the newly reborn city, and the date and time of the photo shoot are also noted. On a good day, it is a collage of time when the shadows of the present overlap the shadows of the past. One of the chairs was installed without any inscription. I will save this for the next development.

The footprints of everyday scenes, familiar to the locals, have been meticulously stacked and molded onto the wall surface. In the foyer, stanzas of regional folk songs are inscribed using dichroic glass, illuminated by a program of lights that choreographs a visual melody. This landscape, once submerged beneath the sea, endures here, carrying the memories of its people.

Living in Tokyo, it’s common to witness corners of the city suddenly vanish, erasing previous scenes from memory. Upon returning to such areas, new, unfamiliar landscapes often greet us. Urban environments are characterized by these constant cycles of change. This particular site has undergone its own series of transformations. Here, 360-year-old samurai residences coexist in full scale with 60-year-old architectural plans, meticulously integrated with photographs and information spanning each period. What legacy will this new development leave for the future? It’s crucial to remember that we stand at just one point along an unbroken historical continuum.

24 Gardens
The Japanese sense of tradition and beauty has long thrived in Japan’s distinctive seasonal climate. Park City Toyosu’s landscape design draws inspiration from Japan’s 24 seasonal divisions, a concept deeply rooted in the country’s cultural heritage. These divisions divide the year into 24 equal parts, with each part further subdivided into 15 days based on the lunar calendar. This allows for a nuanced appreciation of the subtle changes across the four seasons, a hallmark of Japanese culture. Our goal is to craft a landscape that invites active engagement rather than mere observation. To achieve this, we have meticulously designed 24 private gardens, incorporating various innovations to enhance the visitor’s experience.

The entire glass facade of the headquarters building of a medical equipment manufacturer was adorned with a lunar phase pattern, symbolizing the connection between people’s physical condition and lifestyle with the rhythmic phases of the moon.

Crafted a sundial-inspired business card that unfolds elegantly as you present it to customers. Engage them with a cheerful greeting: “Isn’t it a lovely day?” Let the sun guide our connections with others.