This facility offers a place to learn about and experience the natural environment of the Hyogo Canal, nurtured through the efforts of the local community. Alongside its role as a center for environmental learning, it welcomes people walking along the canal to stop by and relax.
The building follows an arc centered on the artificial tidal flat where learning activities take place, opening its inner face toward the canal. Like a pair of outstretched arms, it welcomes visitors from the promenade approaching from the north, drawing their walk into the plaza and the building. Inside, the canal landscape unfolds along the gently curving windows, drawing attention toward the water.
The structure uses locally sourced Kobe hinoki cypress, with curved timber string beams assembled from slender members supporting the gently sweeping roof. Bamboo from local woodland management is used in the approach paving, while previously unused zelkova timber stored within the city finds a new purpose as bench seating. The protective coating on the timber exterior incorporates powdered shells from Akoya pearl oysters raised in the canal. Timber and bamboo from the mountains, materials lying unused in the city, and shells from the sea bring the connections between mountain, city, and sea into the building.
Analysis of annual wind patterns and airflow simulations informed the building’s form and window placement, allowing breezes cooled by the canal’s water surface to flow through the interior. Large openings facing northwest toward the canal admit consistent daylight throughout the year. Deep eaves on the west side block strong sunlight, creating comfortable shade beneath them and around the benches. Spending time here—experiencing the breeze, light, and changing seasons—is itself a way of learning about the Hyogo Canal’s environment through the senses.