Mizuniwa

The "Water Garden" can only be seen at Nasu Muku no Ne. It is a magnificent creation born out of the meticulous calculations and refined sensitivity of architect Junya Ishigami. Despite the beautiful scenery, it is a place that makes you want to close your eyes and take a deep breath. As you stand in the Water Garden, the scenery goes on changing, naturally. Please enjoy this beautiful landscape that is never-ending, and forget that time exists.

RESERVATION

If you make a reservation to visit the Water Garden (without staying overnight), we will provide you with one free drink.

Concept

The "Water Garden" is a calculated expression of nature. It is a magnificent sight created by a wide variety of trees, mainly oaks, but also maples and beeches, and by the diverse shapes of the waterscape. In front of the beautiful scenery that unfolds there, you can have a dialogue with your own mind and body. A space for meditation where you can forget the passage of time, and let your mind and body be what they want to be.

In order to maintain the beauty of the Water Garden, please refrain from eating or drinking there. Also, please refrain from bringing pets into the garden. You are free to walk within the Water Garden, but please walk along the paving stones whenever possible.

Architect Junya Ishigami

After graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts Graduate School of Fine Arts, Department of Architecture, he worked at Kazuyo Sejima & Associates, before establishing Junya Ishigami & Associates in 2004. His major works include the Kanagawa Institute of Technology KAIT Studio and KAIT Plaza, Park Groot Vijversburg Visitor Center, Botanical Garden Art Biotope "Water Garden", and the 2019 Serpentine Pavilion, House & Restaurant. He has received numerous awards, including the 2009 Architectural Institute of Japan Award (Works), the Golden Lion at the 12th International Architecture Exhibition, Venice Biennale, 2010, the Mainichi Design Award, the 2019 Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists (Fine Art), the OBEL AWARD, and the 2024 Frederick Kiesler Award for Architecture and Art.

A fusion of nature and architecture

Nasu Muku no Ne is surrounded by the majesty of nature in its natural state. The Water Garden is a work of art created by an architect based on meticulous calculations. The beauty of this contrast is one of its attactions. The pure white leaves that are the visual identity of Nasu Muku no Ne are not just nature, but are a symbol of nature that has been crafted by human hands.