This was truly one of the places that left the deepest impression on me during my trip to Shikoku! I had originally planned to just stop by and look around, but the moment I walked into the library, I was captivated by the sight before me.
Looking up, the entire ceiling is covered with interlocking wooden beams and columns, layered and arranged like a forest of wood. It was truly spectacular! I couldn't stop looking up to admire it, and it looked beautiful no matter how I photographed it.
The entire library was built using a large amount of local wood from Yusuhara, and you can feel the warmth of natural wood everywhere, from the ceiling to the floor. With natural light streaming into the building, there even seemed to be a faint scent of wood in the air. The whole space can be summed up in one word—comfortable!
The interior design is also very distinctive. The bookshelves, wooden steps, and reading areas are cleverly integrated into the architecture. It doesn't feel as standardized as a typical library, but instead has a more relaxed and leisurely atmosphere.
I especially liked the high-ceilinged wooden space. Standing inside, I naturally slowed down, looked around, took photos, and enjoyed this rare sense of tranquility. Even without finding a book and sitting down to read, it was worth visiting just to admire the architecture!
This distinctive library was designed by internationally renowned architect Kengo Kuma, who used local wood and the interplay of light and shadow to create a uniquely beautiful space. I never expected to find such a beautiful library hidden in this quiet town in Kochi Prefecture, Shikoku!
It's truly worth making a special trip here. It's not only a place that book lovers will enjoy—even someone like me, who enjoys architecture and photography, felt the trip was well worth it.
