Enoura Observatory

A true gem. Worth a visit to get away from the routine Japan overload. But go only if you trip is long enough to have covered other major attractions as this takes away half of your day. It's more a peaceful orange orchard located in an amazing location. Wish there was some good to enjoy while taking it all in. They do have lemonade kind of drinks, coffee and tea and honey made granola.

This place is tucked away in the countryside about 1.5hrs drive from Tokyo. It's best to book in advance for admission and free shuttle bus or parking permit, 3300 yen each person. It's closed at 4:30pm and the access to the bamboo forest is closed at 4pm. Some very exquisite architecture details, as well as spaces (Mies and Philip Johnson glass house vibe), displaying works by the designer/photographer himself. It's quite a little gem esp. if you can manage to visit during a cooler day.

Amazing art experience! Only wish i could have stayed longer as the session is only 3 hours and I go slowly. Brings art and architecture together dexigned by hiroshi sugimoto. Elements of japanese garden throughout and one of my favourite art places - reminded me of naoshima and chichu. There are 3 shuttle bus for each entry from the closest JR station and make sure you book online 2 days in advance to get the discount. I was not so organised and called up on the day for walk up ticket which was 3850 yen but very easy. The cafe is also great i enjoyed the orange gelato with amazing Views

Hiroshi Sugimoto’s genius has culminated in an incredible demonstration of his talent in architecture and art. Subtle movements in nature that often backdrop experience are framed and offer a perspective upon nature as art, and as fundamental to understanding beauty. A highly recommended, moving and thought provoking experience. To enjoy the entire exhibit, arrive on time as the grounds are extensive and a slow pace is desirable.

It is difficult to categorize this facility with anything. The facility itself is art, the location is art, the ancient Japanese artifacts are art, and the fusion of these elements makes for a special experience. The cherry blossoms and rape blossoms were in full bloom, creating an Amazing landscape. The three hours are in the morning and afternoon, but the three hours go by quickly. Reservations are required through the website.

A unique place, implacably created, which left a profound impression on me - Soul and body were healed after a three hour stay.

Calm, zen oasis for those wanting a break from Tokyo. Imagine art but in the form of land-based installations and structures. Visited on a Saturday and it wasn’t crowded. Take your time to walk around the grounds, sit on any open benches and just soak in the moment. Wonderful views of the ocean, but like many others mentioned, pray your day of visit is bright and sunny. A leisurely walk around the entire ground would probably take 1.5-2 hrs. There’s a cafe right at the entrance that sells citrus-based drinks (since there’s a citrus grove there). Directions: definitely reserve your tickets online, together with the shuttle bus that will pick you up from Nebukawa Stn. Don’t get confused by the other shuttle bus which is for the Hilton Resort. Not advisable to walk from the train stn to the observatory since the road is narrow, hilly and it’s quite a distance away. If travelling from Tokyo Stn, can take the Shinkansen to Odawara Stn (33mins) before changing to a local train to Nebukawa Stn - this would be the fastest route but pricey due to the Shinkansen ticket.

Such a great place to be in balance with nature and enjoy the views, highly recommend to come for all nature and architectural lovers!