Sublime gravity-defying architecture in Yusuhara Town

The charming mountain town of Yusuhara is famous for its five (currently-open) buildings designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Also the designer for the Japan National Stadium (centerpiece of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics), Kengo Kuma incorporates themes of local history, environment, sustainability, and more, in his designs

This is true for every structure in Yusuhara, including the Kumo-no-Ue-no Gallery (the exterior is shown here in the first photo). Although it may seem elegantly simple at a glance, there are a lot of complex and intricate details you will start to notice the more you look. The shape draws inspiration from branches and leaves spreading out in a forest, as well as the image of sunshine filtering through canopies to create a beautiful harmony of light and shadow. The structure also utilizes local cedar wood, which helps it blend in with the surrounding nature seamlessly

Kumo-no-Ue-no Gallery
https://maps.app.goo.gl/9bN6WDhz5q2omA3P7
https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10029

Special thanks to Instagram user @todoroky_ for the stunning first photo!

@todoroky_: https://www.instagram.com/todoroky_/