Concept

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Before becoming EXP._Co-Onsen, the property belonged to political figure Shin Kanemaru. Converting the historic house and its expansive garden required balancing preservation with innovation. The location was chosen not only for its architecture but also for its position between Atami—known as the birthplace of Sino-Japanese relations—and Yugawara, a historic literary retreat. This “in-between” setting inspired the concept of “bridging.” The garden reflects this idea, blending natural and designed elements under the guidance of acclaimed landscaper Michio Tase. Using the technique of 借景庭園 (shakkei teien, or “borrowed landscape”), the garden incorporates the surrounding Yugawara mountains as part of its composition. Left untouched for years, it had grown to reflect the native vegetation of the nearby Yukawa River. Tase nurtured this, creating a garden rich in regional character and biodiversity, which bursts into life each spring with ume, sakura, rhododendron, and wildflowers.

Process

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Result

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