The church represents the five natural elements of stone, light, green, water, and wood.
Kendrick Kellogg was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, which heavily influenced the building's organic integration into the landscape.
The interior contains no traditional religious icons, focusing instead on the interplay of sunlight and natural stone materials.
The name 'Stone Church' refers to the concept of Uchimura Kanzo’s 'Non-church' movement, which emphasizes worshiping in nature rather than inside a rigid building.
The structure is designed to withstand the harsh snowy winters of the Nagano mountains.
Stone Church, located in Karuizawa, is an architectural landmark designed by American architect Kendrick Kellogg, built in 1988. Its design philosophy integrates organic architecture, utilizing alternating arches of stone and glass to symbolize the progression of life and the divine. The structure is built into the hillside, allowing natural light to filter through the glass segments and illuminate the interior prayer space. It is located within the grounds of the Hoshino Resorts area. The church is frequently used for weddings, which can restrict visitor access to the interior. The design avoids right angles, relying instead on curves that mimic natural earth formations.
The exterior path leading up to the entrance, which captures the curve of the overlapping stone and glass arches.
Check the official website calendar before visiting, as the church is frequently closed for private wedding ceremonies.
Combine your visit with a walk through the adjacent Harunire Terrace for dining and shopping.
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main sanctuary.
Do not attempt to enter the church if a wedding is in progress, even if the exterior appears open; always respect the marked boundaries.
Frequently closed to the public for private wedding ceremonies; verify availability on the official website before travel.
Maintain silence as this is a functional place of worship and a wedding venue. Remove hats and refrain from using mobile phones inside.
