Kiunkaku: The Architecture of Quietude

Stepping away from the vibrant hum of Atami's summer, the gates of Kiunkaku Villa offer a different kind of warmth – one steeped in history and the gentle passage of time. Originally conceived in 1919 as a lavish private retreat by a prominent businessman, this coastal villa evolved over the decades, transforming into a celebrated ryokan after the war. For years, it was a haven where renowned literary figures found inspiration within its unique walls, a place where stories were not only written but lived. Now preserved as a municipal property, Kiunkaku stands as a layered tapestry, a quiet testament to a bygone era.

What makes Kiunkaku truly captivating is this beautiful, sometimes unexpected, dialogue between styles. Traditional Japanese rooms, with their tatami mats and paper screens, sit alongside opulent Western-style salons and bathing areas adorned with intricate tiles and stained glass – a striking blend born from the Taisho and early Showa periods.

These photographs seek to capture the atmosphere of this place during the summer of 2025. They are an exploration of how light falls on textured walls, the quiet geometry of a room overlooking the garden, the details of craftsmanship in wood and glass, and the pervasive sense of calm that lingers in the air. It's an invitation to pause, to notice the interplay of inside and out, East and West, past and present, within the tranquil embrace of Kiunkaku Villa.