The township of Shitara is located in a major wood producing area in the mountains. Shitara is a small town of around 5,000 residents. The nursery school, with capacity for 40 children, is situated adjacent to Fukuden-ji Temple, which is at the mountain summit and has overlooked the town since the Muromachi period. The sound of children playing happily on the terrace of the nursery school combines with the periodic ringing of the temple bell that is considered a defining feature of the town. The two design elements together to create a pleasing visual outlook for the local community. The facility has been constructed from some of the last remaining timber in the mountains behind the temple. A large ginko tree with tremendous significance to the local township is the focal point of the facility. The surrounding rooms have wide eaves to provide ample shelter. All rooms offer views across to the ginko tree and the mountains in the distance. In addition to the ginko tree, the nursery school boasts an open design that welcomes the local community while acknowledging the protective role of the nearby mountains. Joint design: JAKUETSU Co., Ltd.