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This is the field zone as seen from the field zone
observation terrace.
I was struck by the difficulty of creating a field zone by human hands in the midst of nature.
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Amidst the grassy area, stones were scattered about
, and a family was relaxing amongst the scattered stones.
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The view from the observation terrace overlooking the field,
and the view from the rest terrace overlooking the field, observation terrace, and the Alps ?
it was a truly pleasant park to stroll through.
At the same time,
I was repeatedly reminded of the difficulty of designing a park within nature.
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Saturday, June 14, 2014 15:00 |
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I had always wanted to visit the Chihiro Iwasaki Museum of Art in Azumino, so I was really happy to finally be able to go.
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Park map |
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The building's overall appearance
features a series of gable roofs reminiscent of the Alps, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, the main entrance offers panoramic views of the area beyond, demonstrating a truly environmentally conscious design. |
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There were chairs in the courtyard
where you could lie down , and I relaxed there for about an hour.
It was a truly relaxing space. |
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The sunlight streaming in from the courtyard into the corridor around the courtyard
was truly pleasant,
and although the design wasn't particularly flashy, it
created a wonderfully relaxing space. |
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I enjoyed a hot chocolate
while taking in the beautiful natural surroundings of Cafe Terrace Azumino.
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Saturday, June 14, 2014 18:00 |
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Asama Onsen Ume no Yu |
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breakfast
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Sunday, June 15, 2014 10:00 |
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I visited the former Kaichi School, an elementary school built about 140 years ago. To be honest, I was surprised that such a magnificent building was constructed in 1873 (Meiji 6 ) .
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As I entered the corridor inside the school building, I could easily imagine the children running around amidst the crisp, clear air .
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What I felt in the classroom was a strong desire to create a good learning environment for children. That feeling was palpable. Education is truly about passion, isn't it?
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Sunday, June 15, 2014 11:00 |
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After visiting Kaichi School, I walked to Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure
. It wasn't built on top of a stone wall, but rather on a relatively low site.
Somehow, the overall balance was good and it was beautiful.
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I myself haven't climbed a castle tower in over 40 years.
I think the last time was probably when I was in junior high school, at Osaka Castle .
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On my way back from Matsumoto, I stopped by a friend's house in
Nagoya and they treated me to yakiniku (Japanese barbecue).
It was incredibly delicious.
It's so nice to have friends you can drop by here and there. |
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The main purpose of this trip was to visit the National Alps Azumino Park.
It was my first time seeing artwork related to someone I know in the park, and I realized that creating a park in such a naturally rich area is an extremely difficult job.
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