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Mirai no Kokoro no Oka (Hill of Hope) is a magnificent white marble garden located in Setoda, Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. Spanning 5,000 square meters with elevation changes of up to 25 meters, this site is truly extraordinary. The marble used is entirely sourced from the famous Carrara quarries in Italy. The project was the life's work of sculptor Kazuto Kuetani, who dedicated 12 years starting from 1988 to bring this vision to life. Designed to harmonize with natural light, wind, and the surrounding scenery, this space is not merely a garden but an 'environmental sculpture' where visitors can feel a sense of living connection with the space.
The creation of this garden is a testament to the passion of Kazuto Kuetani. Through his work in Carrara, Italy, he focused on environmental sculptures that highlight the unique characteristics of natural stone. The massive amount of Carrara marble was transported via container ships to realize this long-term vision. The project has international recognition, including awards in the urban landscape category and authorization from the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities. It represents a unique cultural fusion where Japanese spiritual aesthetics meet Italian stone-working traditions.
The garden features various monuments, plazas, and paths of different scales. The texture of the white marble, especially when illuminated by the sun, is a mesmerizing sight. Key structures include the 'Tower of Light,' related to the concept of the Twelve Heavenly Deities in Buddhism, as well as elevated viewpoints overlooking the scenery. These monuments are designed to change their expression depending on the angle of light, creating a dynamic experience. The stark contrast between the pure white marble and the serene blue of the Seto Inland Sea is a sight found nowhere else.
The garden reveals different faces depending on the time of day and season. During the bright daylight hours, the white marble reflects the sun with a dazzling brilliance. In the late afternoon, the setting sun casts deep, dramatic shadows across the monuments, creating a soulful atmosphere. Throughout the seasons, the changing colors of the sky and the surrounding vegetation add layers of color to the white landscape. To truly appreciate the three-dimensional texture and depth of the sculptures, we recommend visiting during times of shifting light.
Beyond just viewing the art, visitors are encouraged to feel the texture of the marble and become one with the space. The creator's wish was for people to walk through the environment and expand their imagination. Walking through the sculpted paths allows you to experience the space itself, feeling the flow of the wind and the stillness of the stone. It is a meditative experience that offers a sense of tranquility away from daily life.
The Hill of Hope is located within the grounds of Kosanji Temple. The surrounding area is dotted with traditional Japanese architectural elements, such as five-story pagodas and ceremonial gates, offering a deep dive into Japanese religious and cultural aesthetics. The area also provides beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea, allowing you to experience the unique local atmosphere and natural beauty of the region.
Since the garden features elevation changes and marble paths, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. As it is an outdoor environment, please prepare for the weather. While there is some English-language support, it is helpful to be prepared for local conditions. Please respect the cultural sanctity of the space and the tranquility of other visitors.