The Best Architectural Buildings in Japan
When talking about architecture, Japan is one of the leading countries in modernity, fierceness and uniqueness. Throughout the country’s long history, different combined art techniques were formed and used to create masterful and intricate buildings.
Japan is filled with architecture that combines history and technology to cater to unique and world-class characteristics.
The country’s earthquakes and bombardments in the earlier years paved the way for the city to use modern architecture that would recreate the city into a stylish and innovative environment.
Architecture has a significant role in the atmosphere of the country and how it is perceived by foreigners and the people around the world.
The style of the architecture is influenced by the country’s homage to its past like the earthquakes, wood, sliding doors and even incorporation of the trees and nature.
The following buildings are only 7 of the mind-blowing examples of Japanese Architecture:
SkyTree Tokyo
This is known around the world for its marvelous height and its resemblance to Japanese pagodas. It is the tallest building in Japan at 2080 feet in height. It is the second tallest tower in the whole world.
Pagodas are known to be earthquake-proof, so the tower includes a lot of earthquake dampeners. The building uses an equilateral triangle for its base for foundation, but forms a perfect circle slowly per floor.
Aside from its phenomenal height, the building’s actual function is as a broadcast station. It is also a famous entertainment center where locals and tourists visit. Its many facilities include a mall, indoor aquarium and dining places.
Audi Forum
Also called “The Iceberg”, it is considered a landmark because of its unique turquoise glass and its detailed aesthetic formation in Shibuya District. Multiple angles were crafted together to resemble a crystal or an iceberg.
It looks very modern and innovative. The building’s actual function is to hold cars for Audi. It displays the brand’s latest models on its ground floor, and the upper levels are used as office buildings for the employees.
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Tokyo Plaza Ginza
This building was designed as a “glass vessel”, or specifically the “Edo Kiriko,” which is a traditional glass cut.
The commercial building spans a massive area of 50,000 sq. m. and sits right in the middle of the most renowned commercial district in Japan, Ginza. Each of the building’s sides is surrounded by roads, which is a rare occurrence in the country.
The glass planes masterfully create a phenomenon of light reflection, making it connect to its surrounding areas perfectly.
The building serves as an area of gathering and entertainment. It has a public space where tourists can enjoy the view from above while dining, shopping and taking a stroll.
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Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre
This is a relatively new landmark that celebrates the famous mountain’s status. Like the other tributes to the country, this building adds symbolic value to Mt. Fuji to the country.
The building displays a massive inverted cone that is similar to the volcano’s shape. The use of wood is also a homage to the country’s culture and heritage. The center is dedicated to letting the locals, tourists and the future generation know more about the importance of the mountain.
This building features an observation hall where the majestic Mt. Fuji is in full panoramic display.
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Umeda Sky Building
This building is composed of two 40-story towers that are bridged together by a large observation deck. This is the world’s first skyscraper of this kind and was selected as one of the “top 20 buildings” around the world.
The building is 173 meters long. The top observatory is also called the “Floating Garden Observatory”, which on its own is an architectural marvel because of its doughnut shape. It is a highly recognized landmark.
The building aims to let people enjoy the 360-panoramic view from up in the sky. People of all ages enjoy the sight and the strong wind that can directly be accessed from the top observatory.
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Nippon Budokan
This is a famous Judo Hall that was constructed way back in 1964. Its main purpose was to serve as one of the venues for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. The traditional design and architecture were inspired by the already existing temples like the Horyuji Temple in Nara.
The building features a wide and unusual octagonal shape, which made it a perfect fit to become a concert hall. This building conveniently sits at the heart of Tokyo and has been a center for many world-class events, like The Beatles performance.
The hall is now much used by the country as a music hall because of the great acoustics created by the octagonal shape. Performances and concerts are usually being held here.
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Himeji Castle
This is Japan’s largest and most famous surviving castle. It is well-known because of how well-preserved it has been since 1346. It is a classic example of Japanese castles and how the country’s culture and heritage originated way back then. This was designated as a national treasure in 1931.
Its elegant, white appearance and its grandeur in size made it an architectural treasure as well. The architecture made the castle too strong that it has never been brought down by any earthquake, fire, or storm up to this day. The castle is now open to the public free of charge.
Tourists can walk down a large cherry-laned lawn. There are also many cherry-blossom trees that would be a perfect spot for tourist photos.
The inside of the castle is also accessible to the public with an admission fee. There is only a limited number of visitors per day to help preserve and take care of the castle.
Building an architectural building in Japan requires a combination of careful planning, attention to detail, and compliance with local regulations. Some of the key steps involved in the process include:
Knowing the Ins and Outs of Building in Japan
Identifying a suitable location: The location of a building will influence its design, as well as the materials and construction methods used. It is important to consider factors such as access to transportation, proximity to amenities, and the surrounding environment.
Developing a design: The design of a building should take into account the needs of the occupants, as well as the local climate and environment. In Japan, traditional architectural styles such as shoin-zukuri and sukiya-zukuri are often incorporated into modern buildings.
Understand the Local Building Laws and Regulations in Japan
Obtaining necessary approvals: Building in Japan requires compliance with various regulations, including building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations. This typically involves obtaining approvals from local authorities and submitting detailed plans for review.
Procuring materials and hiring contractors: Once the design and approvals are in place, the next step is to secure the materials and labor needed for construction. In Japan, the construction industry is well-developed and there are many contractors with expertise in different areas of building construction.
Become Familiar with the Cultural Etiquette of Japan
Building in Japan often requires not just an understanding of the laws and regulations, but a respect for the local culture. Constructing the building: Construction typically involves preparing the site, laying the foundation, and building the structure. In Japan, traditional construction methods such as timber framing are often used, as well as more modern techniques like reinforced concrete.
Finishing and maintaining the building: Once the building is constructed, it will need to be finished with items such as windows, doors, and flooring. Ongoing maintenance is also important to ensure the building remains in good condition over time.
Overall, building an architectural building in Japan requires a combination of technical expertise, attention to detail, and compliance with local regulations.
