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Tokyo Architecture City Guide: 35 Iconic Buildings to Visit in Japan's Capital City

• Written by Andreea Cutieru
• Published on April 29, 2022

One of the world's leading metropolises, Tokyo is home to extraordinary architecture that fascinates through its blend of traditional values and high-tech expression. The 1923 earthquake and the bombardments of World War II dramatically influenced the image of the city and its architecture, giving rise to modern urban environments with complex infrastructure.

The Japanese capital constitutes the most populated metropolitan area in the world, housing 33 million inhabitants. Divided into 23 wards and numerous neighbourhoods, the city features a diverse blend of atmospheres and urban fabrics that support an amalgamation of architectural typologies.

The following list showcases 30 iconic modern and contemporary buildings that will provide a good starting point for your first visit to Japan's largest city, including works from renowned architects such as Nikken Sekkei , Herzog & De Meuron , Toyo Ito , Kengo Kuma , Sou Fujimoto , Kenzo Tange , OMA , Jun Aoki and Kazuyo Sejima .

Ginza Neighborhood

Tokyu plaza ginza / nikken sekkei.

Maison Hermès Tokyo / Renzo Piano

Yamaha Ginza / Nikken Sekkei

Louis Vuitton Matsuya Ginza Facade Renewal / Jun Aoki & Associates

De Beers Ginza Building / Jun Mitsui & Associates Architects

Shizuoka Press and Broadcasting Center / Kenzo Tange

Tokyo International Forum / Rafael Viñoly Architects

Louis Vuitton Ginza Flagship Store / Jun Aoki Architects + Peter Marino Architect

Omotesando Neighborhood

Miu miu aoyama store / herzog & de meuron.

Omotesando Keyaki Building / Norihiko Dan and Associates

Coach Omotesando Flagship / OMA

Shibuya Neighborhood

Yoyogi national gymnasium / kenzo tange.

Sunwell Muse Kitasando / Takato Tamagami and Tsutomu Hase

Miyashita Park / Nikken Sekkei

TRUNK (HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK / Keiji Ashizawa Design

UPI Shop in Omotesando / Happenstance Collective [HaCo]

Shinjuku Neighborhood

Japan national stadium / taisei corporation + azusa sekkei + kengo kuma & associates.

Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower / Kenzo Tange

Spiral Building / Fumihiko Maki

Asakusa Neighborhood

Asakusa culture and tourism center / kengo kuma & associates.

Koenji  Neighborhood

House na / sou fujimoto architects.

Setagaya  Neighborhood

Breeze / artechnic architects.

Suginami Neighborhood

Za koenji public theatre / toyo ito.

Shibaura  Neighborhood

Shibaura house by kazuyo sejima.

Sumida Neighborhood

Asahi beer hall / philippe starck.

The Ariake Gymnastics Centre / Nikken Sekkei + Shimizu Corporation

Sekiguchi Neighborhood

St. mary cathedral / kenzo tange.

Oshiage Neighborhood

One @ tokyo / kengo kuma & associates.

Kodaira Neighborhood

Musashino art university museum & library / sou fujimoto.

Hachioji Neighborhood

Tama art university library / toyo ito & associates.

Harumi  Neighborhood

Harumi residential tower / richard meier & partners architects.

Meguro City

Tokyo institute of technology hisao & hiroko taki plaza / kengo kuma & associates.

Minato District

Azabudai hills / heatherwick studio.

Toranomon Hills Station Tower / OMA/Shohei Shigematsu

Nihonbashi Neighbourhood

K5 tokyo hotel / claesson koivisto rune.

We invite you to visit our list of Architecture City Guides .

Editor's Note:  This article was originally published on April 29, 2022.

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Tokyo Aesthetics and Architecture Tour, with Omotesando and Meiji Jingu

• Meji Jingu Shrine

• Orientation to the architecture and aesthetics of Tokyo
• Join an MA or PhD level expert

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Schoolgirl walking down the stairs of the Prada building by Herzog & Meudon, Omotesando © Kristophe Noel

Rays of sunlight break through the clouds and spill over Tokyo © Kristophe Noel

Sunny Hills by Kengo Kuma © Kristophe Noel

Hugo Boss & Tods by Toyo Ito, Omotesando © Kristophe Noel

Dentsu headquarters by Jean Nouvel and other skyscrapers, Shiodome © Kristophe Noel

Bâtiment Seiko, Ginza © Kristophe Noel

Dentsu headquarters by Jean Nouvel, Shiodome © Kristophe Noel

Kimuraya, the interior of a retro café or "kissaten" © Kristophe Noel

Tokyo International forum by Rafael Viñoly © Kristophe Noel

Tokyo Architecture Tour

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From the cellars of the past to the heights of the future, a guided tour on the theme of architecture via Tokyo's urban space.

World-renowned architects have shaped the city of Tokyo

Tokyo is an avant-garde city when it comes to architecture . Unlike European cities, in Tokyo, the rules of architecture are very flexible, which allows architects to express their creativity even in the heart of the city, whether for public or private buildings. Thus the city offers itself up to the liberty of these creators of an environment that is sometimes disorienting, a little bit crazy, but always creative.

A tour in the footsteps of the great Japanese architects

The Tokyo Tower, the Rainbow Bridge, the Yoyogi Gymnasium, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Headquarters, the Asahi Beer Hall by Philippe Starck, and the red brick Tokyo Station, inspired by European classicism, etc. The architectural masterpieces that dot the geography of Tokyo are numerous. But in Tokyo, these architectural concepts have invaded everyday life from all sides. Welcome to Japanese spatiality, where the world is expressed as much in a vertical sense as in a horizontal one.

The various strata of a history where innovation has always been combined with daily life will be revealed throughout the day. Meet the architects who have shaped Tokyo, such as the well-known Tadao Ando, but also Kuma Kengo, the other great star of Japanese architecture, whose creative principles will amaze many, and many others: Kenzo Tange, Kisho Kurokawa, Sanaa, but also Jean Nouvel, Jaques Adnet, etc...

Architecture in Tokyo to be experienced on a daily basis

This day will not merely be about observation, but also about immersion, feeling and understanding the ins and outs of these types of architecture. Japan also has the unique requirement of having to adapt to seismic constraints and we will see how these creators of tomorrow's world transform this constraint into strength and creative material. Instead of just walking horizontally, climb to the top of these dizzying verticalities. From Shiodome, the heart of international business, to Ginza, Tokyo's 5th Avenue, and finally Omotesando , the most elegant, embrace the city with all our senses, from the underground to the clouds. You will never again see the city as you did before.

A flexible, personalised guided tour

Your English-speaking guide will pick you up in front of Bic Camera Akasaka-Mitsuke Station at 9:00 to start the guided tour, which will last about 8 hours. Travel will be by public transport You will also have lunch with your guide in a restaurant along the way, recommended by them, according to your preferences.

As part of our discovery days, your guide will prepare the best itinerary for you, although we also offer the possibility of contacting your guide beforehand if you have specific requests (dietary restrictions, parts of the programme you would like to discuss, etc.).

Not included in the offer

- Transport - Lunch - Paid admissions

Cancellation policy

Up to 7 days before: 0%

Between 7 days before and 5:00 p.m.the previous day: 50%

After 5:00 p.m.the previous day and same day: 100%

Our activities in Minato City

teamLab Borderless Activities in Tokyo

• Duration : 2 hour
• Location : Minato City

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Tokyo Architecture and Contemporary Art Walking Tour With a Local Guide

• Guided , Tokyo , Tour Reviews , Walking Tours

Step into the vibrant world of Tokyo’s architecture and contemporary art scene with the Tokyo Architecture and Contemporary Art Walking Tour With a Local Guide.

This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s architectural wonders and discover the cutting-edge art that defines its cultural landscape.

Led by a knowledgeable and friendly guide, visitors can expect to uncover hidden gems, explore the intersection of art and architecture, and enjoy Tokyo’s modern art scene.

With glowing reviews from previous participants, it’s clear that this tour is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Get ready to be captivated by the architectural marvels and artistic masterpieces that make Tokyo a true global hub of creativity.

Great News! You can reserve your spot for free with Viator. You can easliy cancel any time up to 1 day before without paying anything.

Quick Takeaways

• Tokyo seamlessly combines ancient techniques with modern materials in its traditional architecture.
• Tokyo’s architectural wonders highlight the city’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary design.
• Tokyo’s vibrant contemporary art scene can be explored through numerous galleries, museums , and street art installations.
• Tokyo’s architectural and contemporary art walking tour showcases the fusion of art and design in the city’s buildings.

Not for you? Here's a few more great tours and experiences nearby.

• Private & Custom TOKYO Day Tour Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
• Private Transfer From Tokyo Port to Tokyo Haneda Int Airport(Hnd)
• Shinjuku Golden-Gai and Kabuki-Cho Bar Hopping With Master Guide
• Small Group Iaido Class in Tokyo

Tokyo’s Architectural Gems

Tokyo boasts a stack of architectural gems that showcase the city’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary design.

Exploring traditional architecture in Tokyo is a fascinating experience, as the city seamlessly combines ancient techniques with modern materials. From the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa to the stunning Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, visitors can witness the rich history and cultural significance behind these structures.

Tokyo’s sustainable design trends are also worth noting, as the city has embraced environmentally-friendly practices in its architecture. Buildings like the Sumida Hokusai Museum and the Nakagin Capsule Tower exemplify innovative approaches to sustainable design, incorporating energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials.

Whether it’s admiring the intricate craftsmanship of traditional buildings or marveling at the cutting-edge designs of contemporary structures, Tokyo’s architectural gems offer a captivating journey through time and design.

Exploring Contemporary Art in Tokyo

Visitors can enjoy Tokyo’s vibrant contemporary art scene while exploring the city. Tokyo is known for its diverse and dynamic artistic expressions , which can be seen in its numerous galleries, museums , and street art installations. The city is a hub for contemporary artists from around the world, showcasing their work in various mediums such as painting, sculpture , photography, and multimedia installations.

A walk through Tokyo’s neighborhoods will reveal an array of modern architectural trends that provide a backdrop for these artistic expressions . From sleek glass buildings to innovative designs that blend traditional and contemporary elements, Tokyo’s architecture itself is a work of art.

To highlight the importance of contemporary art in Tokyo, the following table showcases some of the notable art destinations in the city:

Exploring Tokyo’s contemporary art scene is not only a feast for the eyes but also an opportunity to engage with the city’s culture and creativity. Whether it’s exploring the city’s galleries, attending art events , or simply stumbling upon street art in unexpected places, Tokyo offers a rich and dynamic experience for art enthusiasts.

Uncovering Hidden Architectural Wonders

Explorers can uncover a stack of hidden architectural wonders throughout the city. Tokyo is known for its modern skyline, but there are also countless architectural secrets waiting to be discovered. From traditional temples tucked away in quiet neighborhoods to contemporary buildings blending art and design, the city offers a treasure trove of hidden art gems .

Visitors can stumble upon charming old houses with intricate wooden facades or stumble upon sleek structures that push the boundaries of design. These hidden architectural wonders showcase the rich history and creativity of Tokyo. A local guide can lead the way, offering insights into the stories behind each building and pointing out the intricate details that may go unnoticed.

Embarking on a tour dedicated to uncovering these hidden gems ensures that visitors don’t miss out on the unique architectural beauty that Tokyo has to offer.

The Intersection of Art and Architecture

Art and architecture intersect seamlessly on Tokyo’s architectural and contemporary art walking tour with a local guide. This unique tour allows visitors to explore the artistic architecture of Tokyo, showcasing the fusion of art and design in the city’s buildings.

From the sleek and modern structures to the traditional and ornate designs, Tokyo’s architecture is a true reflection of its vibrant art scene. The guide provides insightful commentary on the significance and inspiration behind each architectural masterpiece, offering a deeper understanding of the relationship between art and architecture.

Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the harmonious blend of form and function, as well as the innovative use of materials and techniques. This tour is a must for art and architecture enthusiasts, offering a captivating journey through Tokyo’s rich creative landscape.

A Local’s Guide to Tokyo’s Architectural Marvels

The local guide provides an in-depth exploration of Tokyo’s architectural marvels, revealing the city’s hidden gems and highlighting the unique features of each building.

From ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, Tokyo is a city filled with architectural wonders waiting to be discovered. The guide takes visitors on a journey through the city, uncovering architectural secrets and showcasing Tokyo’s hidden gems .

Each building is carefully selected for its historical significance or innovative design, allowing visitors to appreciate the rich architectural heritage of the city. Whether it’s the traditional beauty of Meiji Shrine or the futuristic brilliance of Tokyo Skytree, the guide ensures that visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of Tokyo’s architectural landscape.

With their expertise and passion, the guide brings Tokyo’s architectural marvels to life, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the city and its hidden treasures.

Taking in Tokyo’s Modern Art Scene

Visitors can enjoy Tokyo’s modern art scene with the guidance of a local expert. Tokyo is a vibrant city known for its thriving contemporary art scene, with numerous art exhibitions and galleries showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists. From traditional Japanese art to avant-garde installations, there’s something to suit every artistic taste.

The city’s urban design also plays a significant role in the art scene, with many galleries located in architecturally stunning buildings that seamlessly blend modernity with tradition. Exploring Tokyo’s modern art scene offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s cultural identity and creative expression.

Whether it’s visiting renowned museums like the Mori Art Museum or discovering hidden galleries in trendy neighborhoods like Shibuya and Ginza, visitors are sure to be captivated by Tokyo’s rich artistic offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Tokyo Architecture and Contemporary Art Walking Tour Usually Last?

The Tokyo architecture and contemporary art walking tour usually lasts around 3 hours. It is accessible for those with limited mobility, there are no age restrictions , and fees may apply. Photography is allowed.

Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Limited Mobility?

The tour is suitable for individuals with limited mobility as it takes accessibility concerns into consideration. Wheelchair accessibility is provided to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the experience of exploring Tokyo’s architecture and contemporary art.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children of all ages can participate in the tour, as there are no age restrictions mentioned. It is a great opportunity for them to appreciate Tokyo’s architecture and contemporary art alongside their family.

Are There Any Entrance Fees or Additional Costs Included in the Tour?

There are no additional costs or entrance fees included in the Tokyo Architecture and Contemporary Art Walking Tour. Everything is covered in the tour price, allowing participants to fully enjoy the experience without any hidden expenses.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. There are no restrictions on taking photos of the unique buildings and contemporary art on the Tokyo Architecture and Contemporary Art Walking Tour With a Local Guide.

To sum it up, the Tokyo Architecture and Contemporary Art Walking Tour With a Local Guide offers a captivating exploration of Tokyo’s architectural wonders and contemporary art scene.

With high praise from previous participants, this tour promises to be an unforgettable experience.

From uncovering hidden architectural gems to immersing in the city’s modern art scene, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for Tokyo’s unique blend of art and architecture.

Don’t miss the opportunity to join this tour and discover the fascinating world of Tokyo’s architectural marvels.

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Project Description

Tokyo – the architecture of ginza.

Languages available: EN ES FR JAP

Minimum group size: 1

Maximum group size: 20

Duration: 4 hours

DESCRIPTION – Tokyo: The architecture of Ginza

From 1612 to 1800, today’s Ginza district was the site of a silver coin mint (Ginza means “silver mint” in Japanese), after which the district was eventually named. The Ginza evolved as an upmarket shopping district following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake.

First we’ll see Dentsu Building (Jean Nouvel, 2004) and close to that there’s the site of the former Nakagin Capsule Tower (Kisho Kurokawa, 1972). The architect was very innovative in creating the building in 1972, the first architectural design in capsules. The module was created with the intention of accommodating businessmen who worked during the week in downtown Tokyo. In 2022 the building was demolished after it fell into disrepair. 23 of the capsules have been saved for posterity.

Then we’ll start a walking tour through some of the impressive buildings located in Ginza:

Ginza Six (Yoshio Taniguchi, 2017), one of the most impressive malls in the world with the FENDI Store (CURIOSITY, 2017) with its steel glass façade design. Shiseido Ginza Building (Takenaka Corporation, 2013), wrapped in exterior shades named “Future Arabesque (Mirai Karakusa).” The delicate and organic streamlines enfold Shiseido’s intelligence. Really close there’s Tokyu Plaza Ginza (Nikken Sekkei, 2016), a a large shopping centre. The building is designed as a glass “vessel” inspired by the Japanese traditional craft of glass cut “Edo Kiriko”.

Louis Vuitton Matsuya Ginza Façade (Jun Aoki & Associates, 2013). Based on Louis Vuitton’s damier, which also is a repeated geometric pattern, the façade becomes their first softer version of damier, imbued with delicacy and richness that is found in organism. We can also find in the area Ginza Place (Klein Dytham architecture, 2016), a shopping department that completes the neighborhood’s central intersection by introducing a bold and well calculated facade to the streetscape. Close to this shopping mall there’s Armani Ginza Tower (Massimiliano & Doriana Fuksas, 2007). The building features the ‘bamboo illumination’ on the façade going up to the third floor. Lighting was installed both outside and behind the glass.

Renzo Piano created Maison Hermès Ginza (2001) a monumental tower that rises light, static and rigorous forms, covered by a glass facade. Former named DeBeers Tower and now known by V88 building by Jun Mitsui and completed in 2007. The building was constructed with stainless steel being rolled out in a curved shape. Each stainless steel surface has a special finish.

We’ll finish seeing Mikimoto Ginza 2 (Toyo Ito, 2005). This boutique store is part of the Mikimoto family, one of the most famous names in Japanese jewellery.  Ito was inspired by the mysteriousness of a jewellery box and imagining bubbles around pearls and floating petals.

Other tours in Tokyo

Tokyo – Aoyama, Harajuku and Omotesando

Tokyo – the architecture of ginza.

Tokyo – Contemporary Architecture

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Traditional Architecture Tour - Kominka Movement

japan's kominka architecture movement in sasayama picks up speed

Witness the breath of fresh air Japanese architects provide for buildings of the past

Traveling through the Japanese countryside, the unique architecture of the old buildings are a refreshing sight to see, especially when visiting from the city. However Architect Kenji Saimoto explained that for many of these old buildings, there is an expiration date. He explained the beginnings of the Kominka  (古民家) Movement, a movement which he helped pioneer approximately 13 years ago. The goals of this movement were not only to help restore and prolong the lives of Japan's historical buildings, but to bring back their relevancy into our modern lives.

"A lot of times, people associate old with dirty. But if someone were to look at something and say, 'That looks old,' I think there's value in that." Saimoto explained that the ultimate goal of to maintain as much of the original structure as possible, only replacing sections that absolutely need repairs. He continued, saying that even the black stains above a fireplace express a certain beauty, illustrating that someone once used that fireplace before. 

We found it fascinating that Saimoto himself lives in a restored building, and he gave us a tour of the building. From the irori  (囲炉裏) hearth in the center of the living room to the style of the tiled ofuro  (bath), his home is teeming with a character and charm you wouldn't find in a typical modern Japanese home.

ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE

Enjoy an architecture tour of Sasayama, providing you with a deeper understanding of the Kominka Movement and the different ways in which these historical buildings are being preserved and utilized today. Witness first hand the ways in which architecture has played a role in the revitalization of Sasayama. Please contact us for more information about a tour of the unique architecture throughout the Sasayama and Tamba area. 

Tour through the Sasayama region and discover the architecture movement that's preserving important pieces of the past.

Recommended for people who…

are interested in Japanese traditional architecture want to learn about the Kominka Movement want to discover a different side of rural Japan through an architecture tour          

Optional add-ons to make your plan more memorable...

We can provide TRANSPORTATION, PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY, and KIMONO for your experience.

Please inquire.

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COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURE TOUR IN TOKYO

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Explore the architectural grandeur of various fashion stores in the world’s fashion capital with architecture professional.

3 Best Areas to Enjoy Architecture in Tokyo

When you visit Tokyo , you can see many new buildings and skyscrapers instead of a lot of historical sites . When you look back at its history, you will get to know the reason. A big earthquake in 1923 and the firebombing during the war in 1945 destroyed many old buildings and houses and sadly not many historical buildings left from them. But still, Tokyo has many interesting architectures to see. If you have no idea where to go, we recommend you to take a tour or explore the area where you can see many symbolic architectures which we will cover in this article!

What’s architecture you can see

Recommended tours, hongo area (in the university of tokyo), what’s tour you can join, other articles you may like, omotesando area  (west side of tokyo).

Omotesando is a famous boutique shopping street like Champs-Elysees in Paris and is also known as one of the foremost “architectural showcase” streets in the world.

If it’s your first time coming to Japan, we strongly recommend visiting the Omotesando area. It is close from Harajuku

• La collezione (Tadao Ando, 1989)
• Luis Vuitton store (Jun Aoki, 2002)
• ONE omotesando (Kengo Kuma, 2003)
• Tod’s (Toyo Ito, 2004)
• Dior (SANAA, 2004)
• Japanese Nursing Association (Kisho Kurokawa, 2004)
• Omotesando Hills (Tadao Ando, 2005)
• Gyre (MVRDV, 2007)
• Nezu museum (Kengo Kuma, 2009)
• Tokyu Plaza (Takushi Nakamura, 2012)
• HUGO BOSS (Norihiko Dan, 2013)
• Sunny Hills (Kengo Kuma, 2013)

• Price: 7000JPY/person ~
• Duration: 3hours
• Price: 55,000JPY/person ~
• Duration: 6 to 8 hours

Ueno & Hongo Area (East side of Tokyo)

In 2016, the Architectual Work of Le Corbusier were added to the World Heritage List. The architectures on the list are spread over seven countries and there is only one in Japan which is the National Museum of Western Art located in Ueno.

Around Ueno area , there is not only the National Museum of Western Art but also many beautiful architectures. If you are getting bored of famous sightseeing place like Omotesando, Shinjuku and Asakusa etc., go to Ueno and Hongo area for the new discoveries.

• A house at Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Garden (Josiah Conder, 1896)
• National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo (Kenzo Kasuya, 1931)
• The National Museum of Western Art (Le Corbusier, 1959) [World heritage]
• Tokyo Bunka Kaikan (Kunio Maekawa, 1961)
• Tokyo Metropolitan art museum (Kunio Maekawa, 1975)
• Tokyo National Museum (Jin Watanabe,1872)

• Sanjo Conference Hall (Kunio Maekawa, 1986)
• School of Law Building (Fumihiko Maki, 2003)
• Fukutake Hall (Tadao Ando, 2008)
• Daiwa Ubiquitous Computing Research Building (Kengo Kuma, 2014)
• Price: 17,000JPY/person ~
• Price: 35,000JPY/group
• Duration: 4hours

Ginza area (Center of Tokyo)

Ginza is also famous boutiques shopping area and known as the most expensive area in Japan.(It cost about 500 thousands dollars per 1 square meter at most expensive place!)

• Wako (Jin Watanabe, 1932)
• Maision Hermes (Renzo Piano, 2001)
• Nakagin capsule tower (Kisho Kurokawa, 1972)
• CHANEL GINZA (Peter Marino, 2004)
• Mikimoto  (Toyo Ito, 2005)
• Armani (Doriana & Massimiliano Fuksas, 2007)
• Tiffany  (Kengo Kuma, 2008)
• Dior (Peter Marino, 2012)
• Kabukiza (Kengo Kuma, 2013)
• Ginza place (Klein Dytham architecture, 2016)
• Matsuya (Kenya Hara)
• Louis Vuitton (Jun Aoki)

• Price: 16,000JPY/person ~

We can organize your tours based on your preference. If you are interested in architecture, we will happily arrange the tour and your knowledgeable guide will take you to the interesting architectures in Tokyo!

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Half-Day Walking Tour: Omotesando - World's Best Modern Architecture Museum

Bold claim? Sure, Dubai has it’s gravity defying skyscrapers, Hong Kong and Shanghai both have clusters of modern glass and steel behemoths that put those in Tokyo to shame in terms of scale and grandeur – but Omotesando is a single neighbourhood with more buildings by great modern architects than anywhere else – and entrance is free.

There are so many great buildings in this area that it’s difficult to cover them all in a single article – mention the names of these architects to anyone with an interest in architecture and you will get instant recognition.  In the world of architecture, they’re all superstars.

Here, we present what we humbly believe to be some of the highlights.  Also, I’ve put them in walking order (check the map at the bottom of the post) so when you visit Omotesando, you can view them in the order shown here – although you can of course view them in any order you like.

The Audi Forum – Creative Designers International

The Audi Forum is about 100m towards Shibuya on the left side of Meiji Dori if you walk from the Omotesando/Meiji Dori intersection – which means it’s not strictly in Omotesando.  This building seems to defy gravity – you wonder how the furniture inside doesn’t just fly all over the place.  You can wander inside and look around.  When you’ve finished, head back to our next destination on the corner of the Omotesando/Meiji Dori intersection.

Tokyu Plaza – Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP

Hiroshi Nakamura isn’t exactly a famous architect outside Japan, but he’s been given a great site to showcase his ideas. From the outside, this building looks like an unremarkable jumble. Sure, there are trees on the roof terraces, but that’s hardly remarkable these days.  However, this building is like a traditional Japanese garden – it’s a building of spaces – it’s meant to be enjoyed as a series of different spaces rather than as a cohesive whole.  The mirrored entrance way is very cool – although strangely, only on exiting the building did I notice the kaleidoscope effect. The roof terraces are worth checking out as well.  The great thing is that they’re not just for looking at through windows – it’s open to the public and there is a Starbucks so you can actually sit amongst the trees and enjoy a drink.

Now walk along Omotesando in the direction of Omotesando Station.  Just past the giant toy shop Kiddyland on your right, you’ll see our next exhibit.

Gyre – MVRDV

Gyre is a mixed use retail and restaurant building by the Dutch architects MVRDV.  The term ‘Gyre’ comes from ‘turn’ or ‘rotate’ (think gyrate).  This building isn’t a belly dancer, but the off centre layers give it a sense of movement and create lots of interesting terrace areas.  Admired as a whole, the effect is somewhat nautical.

Our next building is right next door.

Dior Building- SANAA

Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa – the architects behind SANAA were awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2010 – often referred to as the Nobel Prize of architecture.  This building is most impressive at night – appearing like a layer cake as it is illuminated from within.

Sticking to the same side of the road, continue about another 100 metres or so up towards our next building.

TOD’S Building – Toyo Ito

When asked about architecture in Tokyo, Ito said that it’s a challenge (I’m paraphrasing here!).  Because the value of the land beneath the buildings is so high, it’s necessary to use the whole envelope so Ito’s Tokyo buildings are all about the surfaces. You can see that in the TOD’s building – it originally wrapped around an ugly little building (since demolished) on the corner taking up 100% of the space available.  The remarkable thing is the way that the concrete and glass seems to wrap around the building seemingly completely independent of the internal structure – revealing glimpses of the interior.

Our next stop is on the same side of the road but quite a bit further along.  Go straight through the Omotesando/Aoyama Dori intersection and then head about another 100 metres down the slope.

Prada Building – Herzog & de Meuron

Herzog & de Meuron are also Pritzker Prize winners.  This building is incredible – even more so when viewed at night when lit up from within.  It’s also unusual for a building of its scale in Tokyo because it has room to breathe – unlike the TOD’S building, there is space around the building which makes it stand out even more.  You should definitely head inside – the world viewed through the giant lenses looks quite different.  Staff outnumber customers about 6 to 1 – but don’t be intimidated – even cheapos are allowed to look!

Mosaic Building – Jun Mitsui & Associates

Unfortunately, the Mosaic Building and the smaller Cartier Building suffer in comparison to the Prada building which is right next door.  Perhaps for this reason, I didn’t like the complex very much when it was built – it seemed to be noisy and intentionally eye-catching in contrast to the serene Prada building next door.  However, it’s grown on me.

Head right to the end of Omotesando for our final architectural delight.

Nezu Museum – Kengo Kuma

I’m afraid this photo doesn’t do the building justice – the museum is closed on Tuesdays so I couldn’t get close to the building.  Despite it’s scale, it’s actually a building of intimate spaces and attention to detail.  The sheltered area under the eaves with a zen garden and the bamboo grove that grows next to it is a lovely serene space.  In my mind, it’s quite unusual amongst modern Japanese architecture in that it takes inspiration from the traditional Japanese kura (old style warehouse).  Although Meiji era Japanese architects often tried to blend western with traditional (to rather unusual effect) modern Japanese architects have tended to steer away from these motifs.

This isn’t architecture, but you’ve walked almost the whole length of Omotesando to get to the Nezu Museum so you might as well have a look.  Less than 100 metres away from the museum is the house that celebrated modern artist and sculptor Taro Okamoto lived in.  The residence is now a museum, but the best part of the museum is actually visible from the entrance – so you don’t need to pay the entrance fee unless you’re a hardcore fan and you’d like to see how he built his wonderful creations.

Other Buildings/Architects

Apart from those listed above, the area and its side streets are crammed with buildings by other famous architects.  Tadao Ando, Zaha Hadid, Fumihiko Maki and Kenzo Tange (all Pritzker Prize winners) to name only a few.  For a fan of modern architecture there is nowhere better.

Learn more about traditional Japanese architecture here . 

• The Iceberg
• Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku
• Dior Building
• The Prada Building
• The Nezu Museum
• Architecture
• Walking Tour

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• Travel Information
• Contemporary Architecture Tour in Tokyo

1. Shibuya Underground Terminal (Tadao Ando Architect & Associates, 2008)　

Photo by Nobuyuki Suzuki

2. dior omote-sando shop ( sejima and nishizawa and associates (sanaa), 2003)　.

3. La Kagū (Kengo Kuma and Associates, 2014)

Photo by la kagū

4. ito juku ebisu studio (toyo ito & associates, architects, 2013).

Photo by Kai Nakamura

5. the national art center, tokyo (kisho kurokawa architect & associates, 2006)　.

6. International Library of Children's Literature (Tadao Ando Architect & Associates, rennovation was done in 2002)

7. Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower (TANGE Associates, 2008)

Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, located in west side of Shinjuku area, the largest business area of Japan, was designed by TANGE Associates (originally founded by Kenzo Tange). The 50-story tower houses three different schools inside: Tokyo Mode Gakuen for fashion, make-up, and design, HAL Tokyo for IT and digital contents, and Shutoiko for medical, welfare and sports fields. The innovative design symbolizes the idea that students create, grow and transform themselves in Cocoon Tower. It was selected as "World's 10 most spectacular university buildings" by CNN and is the tallest building in Japan among all Japanese educational facilities. Note: Visitors other than students are not allowed to enter the school's premise, though it is possible to visit a bookstore in the basement and other commercial facilities on the 1st and 2nd floor.

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