This project involves the renovation of a church-owned cemetery covering an area of 30 square meters. The ground level features a spacious, flat area designed for funerals and other ceremonies. Below ground, the existing space serves as a shared burial chamber, accessible only to authorized personnel.
The tomb’s design concept embraces the radiant symbolism of resurrection, inspired by the cross. Positioned against the backdrop of the sky—representing heaven, sunlight, and moonlight—the cross is supported by three cross-shaped pillars and appears to float horizontally in the air. These pillars are anchored within the existing underground structures to safely transfer loads vertically.
The previous structures and waterproofing layers were removed and rebuilt to accommodate the new design. The platform stands 650 millimeters above ground level, with the base of the cross rising 1850 millimeters above the platform. The entire structure reaches a maximum height of 3 meters above the ground. The floating cross introduces an abstract quality to the tomb, making its structural details almost invisible from a worldly perspective.
The cross is oriented to face the deceased, whether they are looking up from the ground or down from the sky. During the day or on nights with a full moon, this heavenly-facing cross casts a large shadow across the cemetery. It is believed that this cross will share the gospel with all visitors, including church attendees and tourists visiting the park.
The church’s message, “I can always see the light of resurrection behind the cross,” beautifully guides visitors to this monumental cross.
Project Drawings
△ General layout plan
△ Plan view
△ Section diagram
Project Information
Architect: Mamoru Hosaka Architecture Urban Design Firm
Area: 28 m²
Project Year: 2020
Photographer: Koji Fujii / TOREAL
Architect: Takeshi Hosaka
Structural Engineer: Nawakenji-m, Kenji Nawa
Client: Kamakura Yukinoshita Church
Architectural Design: Takeshi Hosaka Architects
Location: Yokohama, Japan
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