大屋根リング

The Grand Ring stands as the symbol of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai. Designed by Sou Fujimoto, the preliminary design was carried out by the Tohata-Azusa Design Joint Venture. With an outer diameter of approximately 675 meters and a circumference of about 2 kilometers, a timber framework combining traditional nuki (penetrating tie beam) joints passed down through shrine and temple architecture with modern construction methods forms a massive ring encircling the venue. In filming, our aim was to capture the appeal of this architecture not only from the perspective of walking on the ground or the roof, but also by moving directly through the framework. Using a micro drone, we traversed the structure perpendicular to the circumference, passing between columns and beams and occasionally looking down from high above. By varying flight direction and altitude, we documented the continuous timber joinery from diverse angles. We focused not merely on conveying its overall form, but on communicating the space shaped by the framework itself. By weaving together intimate views of the columns and beams with panoramic perspectives overlooking the expanse of the structure, we sought to reveal the three-dimensional allure of the Grand Ring through paths impossible to follow on foot.