Architecture in Tokyo

From ancient traditional buildings and temples to sky-high towers and modern shapes, the architecture in Tokyo is a feast for the eyes. For architecture buffs and aficionados there is plenty to marvel at, but even for those who know little about the specific details, the buildings and architecture in Tokyo are exciting, adventurous and awe-inspiring. While there is always something to admire and look at here are a few noteworthy buildings to check out to fully appreciate architecture in Tokyo.

Nakagin Capsule Tower

An interesting look at history, design and Japanese architecture, the Nakagin Capsule Tower in the Ginza area was once a thriving office building and residential home which has lost its allure and is now mostly uninhabited. Designed by Kisho Kurokawa, the building was completed in 1972 and while today some of the capsules are still utilized as residential homes, the complex is also used for storage and a few offices. The building serves as an example and preservation of Japanese Metabolism – a post-war movement in Japanese architecture. The iconic building has lost its luster but still stands as an architectural marvel continually impressing architecture lovers. For one of the best views, it is worth walking to the pedestrian bridge across from the building to get a better vantage point of this unique building structure.

8-16-10 Ginza, Chuo 104-0061, Tokyo Prefecture|

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Located in the Asakusa neighborhood near the Senso-ji Temple, the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is both a helpful destination for tourists looking for assistance and an exciting look at architecture in Tokyo. Juxtaposed to the ancient attractions and historic neighborhood, the center is a modern seven-story building with large vertical strips and large glass windows in between the slats overlooking the area. Complete with a viewing deck showcasing the Tokyo Sky Tree in the distance, the center also has an exhibition space and a cafe. Designed by Kengo Kuma, the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is an exciting look at innovative design and is exciting both from the outside and inside of the building.

2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito 111-0034, Tokyo Prefecture

Prada Flagship store

Found in the Aoyama district, the Prada Flagship Store is an icon of design and fashion both in terms of the clothing, and accessories inside, and the building that houses them. A 6-story building with angular structure and encased in glass, the diamond-shaped windows cover the entire building which is a crystal-like shape in its entirety. A modern marvel of architecture in Tokyo, the building was designed by well-known architect due Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron. The building is designed to integrate with the shopping experience. Whether or not you plan to shop at a Prade, a visit to the Flagship store is sure to impress and give an inspiring look at modern architecture in Tokyo.

5 Chome-2-6 Minamiaoyama, Minato, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan

Fuji Television Building

Striking, futuristic and ultra-modern, the Fuji Television Building is a must-see for those who want to explore some of the best architecture in Tokyo. Situated along the water in the Minato district of Tokyo, near the Odaiba train station this unusual building is hard to miss. Completed construction in 1997, the building was designed by Kenzo Tange and was designed for the Fuji Television Network headquarters. The bizarre structure is 25 stories high, a mixture of steel columns, towers, bridges, and a large silver ball made from titanium. Perhaps one of the most exciting parts about the titanium ball is that visitors can view Mount Fuji and Tokyo from an observation deck inside the ball. For an exciting and futuristic look at architecture, although the building is now over 20 years old, a stop at the Fuji Television Building is a must.

2-4-8 Daiba, Daiba, Minato 135-0091, Tokyo Prefecture

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando

One of the most Instagrammed buildings in Tokyo, the mirrored facade entrance with sharp angles and unusual shapes of the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando is an exciting architectural design. Located in Omotesando, the plaza houses a shopping mall with many shops and restaurants, although the more impressive part of the mall is the entrance. To view the mirrors an escalator cascades through the walls creating a 360-degree view reflected in each mirror surface. Tokyu Plaza is located very close to the Meiji-Jinumae Station and is worth taking a walk over from Harajuku to admire the Japanese architecture building structure and design.

4-30-3 Jingu-mae, Jingumae, Shibuya 150-0001, Tokyo Prefecture