Chapel on the water

Religious spot
★ 4.9 (100+ reviews) • 50+ booked
Nestled within the serene landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan, the Chapel on the Water is a breathtaking architectural marvel that captivates visitors with its minimalist elegance and tranquil setting. Located in the picturesque Hoshino Resorts Tomamu in Shimukappu village, this masterpiece is the brainchild of renowned modernist architect Tadao Ando. The chapel is not just a place of worship but a profound experience where nature and design harmoniously converge. Its unique appeal lies in its ability to blur the boundaries between the interior and the natural world, offering visitors a tranquil and reflective space. As you embark on a journey through a white birch forest, you are led to a sacred space where the boundaries between nature and structure dissolve, inviting peace and inspiration. This seamless blend of the natural environment with human creativity makes the Chapel on the Water a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique spiritual experience.
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Nakatomamu, Shimukappu, Yufutsu District, Hokkaido 079-2204, Japan

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Why people love Chapel on the water

4.9 /5
149 reviews
Read all reviews
邱 **
8 Mar
Hoshino Resort Hotel, skiing, cable car, hot springs, Eski Ice City... are all super awesome. It's also a kid-friendly hotel, and is also great for friends who enjoy a drink. Highly recommended! I think I will return! I searched many platforms for booking a room at that time, and Klook offered the best deal, so I placed the order immediately.
戴 **
28 Feb
It's a pity to stay for one day. There are many facilities in the hotel that can be used. Next time I have the opportunity to experience Xingye in summer, I suggest staying for a few more days
2+
劉 **
20 Feb
Whether it is the service staff, catering service or even the instructor at the ski resort, we feel that this trip has been a great addition and we would like to stay here again next time.
劉 **
18 Feb
It was my first time to visit Hoshino Resorts and I really felt it was great. 4 days and 3 nights of fun, get up early every day to eat breakfast, ski, Ice City
2+
劉 **
18 Feb
Come to Xingye Resort, the powder snow here is great, Ice Ice City, the experience of karting on the snow is very exciting, I will come here to ski next time
2+
Klook客路用户
19 Jan
The scenery is unbeatable and the snow quality is superb. The only drawback is that restaurants generally require waiting for a table, so you must make a reservation in advance. The fresh sandwiches and rice balls in the convenience store downstairs are often sold out at the end of skiing. It was minus 7 degrees, and I caught a cold after taking an outdoor hot spring bath: (
CHOI ******
16 Jan
Well worth a stay. When I made a reservation with klook, I found that the official website no longer had the room I wanted. Later, klook actually helped me book it ten days before departure. When I checked the official website, there were one or two available rooms. The price on the official website was more than a thousand dollars cheaper... No need to rush or not necessary. Can those who live there check the official website every day? It’s not clear whether someone canceled or whether it was released ten days earlier.
TSAI ********
20 Dec 2024
You must come to Hoshino in Hokkaido. If you don’t come, you will regret it. If you come, you will feel that time flies too fast and you won’t be able to stay for a few more days. You must come! ! ! !

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Chapel on the Water

Step into a world where architecture and nature dance in perfect harmony at the Chapel on the Water. This stunning wedding chapel, designed by the renowned Tadao Ando, offers a breathtaking experience with its floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to a vast reflecting pool. Here, the Japanese tradition of 'shakkei' or borrowed scenery is beautifully realized, as the surrounding landscape becomes an integral part of your visit. Whether you're attending a ceremony or simply exploring, the serene ambiance created by the interplay of light, water, and concrete will leave you in awe.

Reflecting Pool

Discover the tranquil beauty of the Reflecting Pool at the Chapel on the Water. This expansive body of water serves as a mirror to the sky and the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless connection between the chapel and nature. As you gaze upon the pool, you'll find a sense of peace and reflection, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and appreciation of the natural world.

L-Shaped Concrete Path

Embark on a journey through the birch forest along the L-Shaped Concrete Path leading to the Chapel on the Water. This unique pathway is more than just a route; it's an experience that embodies the concept of coexistence with nature. As you walk, you'll feel the gentle embrace of the forest, setting the stage for the extraordinary architectural marvel that awaits you at the chapel.

Architectural Significance

The Chapel on the Water, crafted by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, stands as a beacon of modernist and minimalist architecture. Completed in 1988, this masterpiece showcases Ando's philosophy of simplicity and harmony with nature, making it a must-visit landmark for architecture enthusiasts.

Cultural and Historical Context

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Hokkaido, the Chapel on the Water is more than just an architectural wonder; it's a cultural icon that embodies the Japanese love for nature and peace. Its strategic location and design pay homage to the region's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Cultural and Historical Significance

This chapel is a fascinating blend of cultural influences, reflecting Japan's Westernization in the 1980s. Designed as a commercial wedding venue, it showcases Ando's minimalist style with its concrete structure, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. The chapel invites visitors to experience a space of reflection and tranquility, deeply rooted in respect for the natural world.

Architectural Design

Influenced by the concept of 'shintai,' the Chapel on the Water features unfinished concrete, shallow terraces, and a unique altar area. These elements create a seamless spatial experience that resonates with the human spirit, offering a delicate yet powerful environment for visitors to explore.