Zou-no-hana park, the birthplace of the port of yokohama, is a location that has provided many encounters with world cultures, as well as the true modernization of japan. Today this essence has been infused into the creative development of yokohama, with the park serving as a source. To celebrate the milestone of 150 years since the port's opening, we will offer a variety of exciting events at zou-no-hana terrace, which will serve as a place for cultural interaction to provide new ideas and messages to the world.

This terrace will offer an information center for sightseeing in yokohama as well as some of the latest information on world cultures. At the zou-no-hana cafe, visitors can enjoy a relaxing time with attention to artistic detail in both furnishings and service. In addition, an exhibition space will be organically fused with the cafe to provide a variety of sophisticated, unique and creative programs and environments.

With the district's history in mind, we will incorporate some of the world's leading art and culture to create new culture while maintaining a connection with the creative activities of yokohama.

The opening exhibit will kick off with the port historical exhibition, in conjunction with the port's 150th anniversary events. The exhibition focuses on the structural remains of the zou-no-hana district and the changes over time from the port's opening to the present. It also calls attention to the achievements of the individuals who have contributed to yokohama's culture and growth. Using the talents of many artists and creative individuals, the exhibits express the full past and present of yokohama through cutting-edge videos and graphics.

Visitors can also see "" the symbol of zou-no-hana 'perry (the elephant that travels through time)'. This character was created by noboru tsubaki, an internationally active artist who exhibited his work at the first yokohama triennale. Zou-no-hana cafe includes stools created by children of yokohama in collaboration with artist katja tukiainen from finland.

In closing, i would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has kindly lent their guidance and cooperation for the opening of this venue, including everyone at the committees for the 150th anniversary of the opening of the port of yokohama and creative city yokohama, the port of yokohama, local companies and organizations, and the artists and creative individuals who have given us their support.

And i look forward to your continued support and guidance.

Zou-no-hana Terrace
Art Director Tsutomu Okada