The master plan for the park was created by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando.
The complex includes a dedicated Glass Studio that offers hands-on blowing and kiln-forming experiences.
The name 'Kanazu' refers to the former town name, which was merged into the current Awara City.
The site hosts an 'Artist in Residence' program, allowing international creators to live and work on-site for extended periods.
The outdoor architecture is specifically designed to create 'frames' of the forest that change perspective as one walks through the concrete corridors.
Kanazu Forest of Creation is a multifaceted art and nature complex located in the hills of Awara, designed by architect Tadao Ando. The site integrates the surrounding forest landscape with geometric concrete structures, hosting contemporary art exhibitions, glass-making workshops, and craft residencies. It functions as a multipurpose cultural park featuring multiple gallery spaces, a dedicated glass studio, and outdoor sculptures dispersed along woodland paths. The facility emphasizes the interaction between artistic production and the natural environment. Visitors can observe artists-in-residence during open studio periods. The architecture utilizes natural light and framing techniques characteristic of Ando's minimalist style to highlight the seasonal changes of the forest.
The central concrete courtyard where the geometric structure frames the forest backdrop.
Check the official website calendar for specific artist-in-residence demonstration days before arriving.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the site spans a large wooded area with significant elevation changes between the gallery buildings.
If you intend to participate in a glass-blowing workshop, reserve your spot online in advance as they fill up quickly.
Do not expect a traditional indoor-only museum experience; failing to prepare for walking on sloped, unpaved forest trails is a common mistake.
Generally closed on Mondays or the following day if a national holiday falls on a Monday.
Do not touch outdoor art installations unless marked as interactive; maintain quiet in the indoor gallery spaces.
