Urban parks change dramatically with the seasons. Even in the same location, spring foliage and autumn leaves create different impressions of openness and color, and these changes likely alter how people experience space. While such differences are intuitively recognizable, it is not easy to measure where and to what extent they occur. This research analyzes seasonal differences in park experience by focusing on openness and richness of color.

　To do so, we collect 3D point cloud data using wearable LiDAR and evaluate both the spatial openness seen from eye level and the diversity of colors appearing in the visual field. Using Yoyogi Park as a case study, we compare spring and autumn data to examine how changes in vegetation alter the way space is perceived. This approach makes it possible to capture seasonal qualities of space that are difficult to read from plans or photographs alone.

　The results suggest that autumn tends to be slightly more open than spring, while the richness of color shows a different seasonal pattern. The analysis also indicates that not only tall trees but also shrubs near eye level play a major role in shaping openness. By grounding landscape experience in data, this research provides new clues for planting strategies, maintenance, and park design.

For more details: Peer-reviewed international conference paper