The Nasu Ashino Stone Museum, a cultural facility in Nasu Town, Tochigi, designed by internationally acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma, is set to host a unique evening matchmaking event on March 22, 2026. The event is organized by nasu-matching, a community revitalization project run by a Nasu Town regional revitalization coordinator, and offers something rarely available at this venue: private access to the museum after closing hours.
An "Experience-Design" Approach to Matchmaking
Matchmaking events are held across Japan, but nasu-matching's approach takes a different angle. Rather than relying solely on profile comparisons or short conversation rounds, this event uses the architectural environment itself as a backdrop designed to stir emotion.
The concept draws on findings from psychology suggesting that mild excitement or tension experienced during a first encounter can make emotional responses easier to associate with the person nearby. With nighttime illumination, quiet surroundings, and the act of moving through the museum space, the event is designed to engage participants on a sensory level before any conversation begins.
The Stone Museum is usually open only during daytime hours. Nighttime access is rare, and the illuminated stone-and-shadow interior creates an atmosphere quite different from the daytime experience.
Event Program
Participants receive an original nasu-matching "freeCard" at the entrance—a capsule-shaped card available in three colors each for men and women. When a man's and woman's cards are stacked, they form a heart shape. The goal in the first part of the event is to find someone holding the same color card while exploring the museum together.
The program runs as follows:
- Opening – Participants gather inside the museum's atmospheric space to start the evening
- freeCard matching – Attendees explore the museum looking for the person carrying the matching card color
- Free interaction time – Open socializing in the architectural space, with staff available for support
- Café time – Conversation continues in a relaxed café area inside the museum
- Closing – Those who found a connection can register interest through nasu-matching; matching results are sent afterward
About the Venue
The Nasu Ashino Stone Museum is located in Ashino, Nasu Town, and was designed by architect Kengo Kuma using local Ashino stone. The facility comprises seven stone structures, combining restored historic stone storehouses with new construction, and received the international stone architecture award in Italy in 2001. The interplay of stone texture and light makes it a destination for architecture enthusiasts both in Japan and abroad.
Currently, an art exhibition titled "MOiKA: Stars and Life" runs at the museum through June 28, 2026.
Event Details
| Venue | Nasu Ashino Stone Museum (2717-5 Ashino, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi) |
| Date & Time | Sunday, March 22, 2026, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM (held regardless of rain) |
| Admission | Pre-sale: ¥1,600 (includes admission and one drink) / Day-of: ¥1,800 (while availability lasts) |
| Eligible participants | Unmarried individuals (no age or residence restrictions) |
| Capacity | 20 men and 20 women (first-come, first-served) |
Who This Event Suits
- Those looking for a matchmaking experience that feels different from the usual format
- People interested in architecture or unique spaces
- Those curious about Nasu Town
- Anyone who prefers a more natural setting for meeting new people
Staff will be on hand throughout the event. Unsolicited approaches and solicitation are prohibited. Sharing contact information is entirely voluntary.
About nasu-matching
nasu-matching is a community project organized by Nasu Town regional revitalization coordinator Chiai Kaneda. Since launching, the project has facilitated 10 couples, two of whom have married, and two participants have relocated to Nasu Town. The project's goal goes beyond simple matchmaking—it aims to connect people to the town itself, contributing to Nasu's broader regional vitality.
Registration is available via the nasu-matching website.
