Celebration Hall - The GARDEN: A Transformative New Chapel for Lifelong Celebrations

On May 3rd, a revolutionary new chapel named Celebration Hall - The GARDEN was launched by Happoen, a comprehensive production company. This innovative space embodies the concept of a “lifetime wedding venue,” evolving from a mere ceremonial site into a joyful sanctuary for life's numerous milestones.

Transforming from 'Oath Space' to 'Celebration Space'

The newly established chapel is envisaged to embrace not just weddings but all significant life events. Through its rebranding project slated for a grand reopening in October 2025, Happoen aims to elevate its wedding services to meet the growing needs of couples and families.

Celebration Hall represents a profound shift in perception, transforming the traditional view of a chapel as merely an 'oath space' into a versatile 'celebration space' that can accommodate various life events, reflecting the shared journey of couples and their families.

Envisioned with the concept of “Minamoto (源) - the beginning of all things,” the hall features a water basin that symbolizes the source of life, surrounded by a serene Japanese garden. The design includes large openings in the ceiling that allow sunlight to illuminate the basin, creating an atmosphere filled with gentle light reflections and the sounds of nature, thus establishing a calm yet sacred celebratory space.

Craftsmanship in Every Detail

One of the hall's most striking features is its deep-rooted craftsmanship. Visitors entering will experience a harmonious blend of simplicity and grandeur that showcases traditional Japanese artistry throughout.

The floor boasts meticulously arranged marble, polished to perfection using a traditional technique known as 'Jintogi' (人研ぎ), creating a visually stunning surface. Additionally, the lattice doors are intricately woven from metal sheets, resembling fabric in texture, serving as gateways between the water basin and the garden. The walls are adorned with fine patterns mimicking natural wood grains, imparting a warm and inviting ambiance.

Moreover, the remarkable curved roof of the chapel marks a highlight of architectural prowess, requiring advanced skills rarely seen in the domestic construction landscape. The blend of form and function in the Celebration Hall ensures it is a quiet yet elegant companion to the surrounding garden.

A Seamless Integration with the Garden

Designed by Kentarou Yamazaki, who also oversaw the renovation of the main building, the Celebration Hall aims to feel like it has been a part of the garden for a long time and will remain an integral part of its future. The design ensures that the chapel does not overshadow the beauty of the Japanese garden; instead, it seamlessly blends into the natural setting.

A water basin at the center of the hall is specially designed to collect rainwater, which echoes the natural water sources of the garden, further emphasizing the connection between the building and its garden landscape. This thoughtful architectural narrative transforms the chapel into a timeless venue that embodies the shift from a site for oaths to one of collective celebrations.

Enhancing the Happoen Experience

The upcoming renovations of Happoen, set to complete by October 2025, will enhance the sense of connection between the building and its historic Japanese garden. The Celebration Hall will enhance the overall appeal, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in seasonal changes and the tranquility of nature.

The main lobby will now extend directly into the garden, ensuring visitors have unobstructed views of the lush landscapes, while new exclusive floors will provide rooftop terraces with stunning vistas of the garden. This renovation aims to revitalize the 400-year-old cultural treasure of Japanese heritage that Happoen represents, creating a sanctuary that celebrates nature and community.

A Lifelong Venue for All Milestones

Happoen is committed to continuing its legacy as a lifelong venue supporting couples and families through various significant events, from anniversaries to family celebrations. These happenings will be designed and executed with great care, ensuring that each moment is memorable, within the historic context provided by the garden.

This dedication positions Happoen as a place where all can return throughout their lives, cherished as a hub of shared experiences and celebrations. With plans for the Celebration Hall alongside their overarching vision, Happoen aims to solidify its place in the hearts of those it serves, allowing them to create lasting memories in a space that reflects their journey together.

For more insights into the design journey of the Celebration Hall, be sure to visit the Happoen note.

About Happoen

Happoen is a comprehensive production company located in Shirokanedai, Tokyo, with a rich history connected to its sprawling Japanese garden and exceptional wedding and banquet services. The organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural richness of Japan while fostering community engagement and cultural exchange. Their mission, “Making Japan Beautiful,” underlines their commitment to cultivating an inviting environment for diverse visitors.

Explore more about Happoen here. Learn about their press releases here.