St. Mary’s Cathedral, nestled in the quiet residential area of Sekiguchi in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture by Kenzo Tange, one of Japan’s most renowned architects. Its unique octagonal design and gleaming stainless steel exterior revolutionized traditional church architecture concepts and stands as a globally acclaimed symbol of post-war Japanese modernist architecture.
🏢Building: St. Mary’s Cathedral (Tokyo Cathedral)
👤Architect: Kenzo Tange
🗓️Completion: 1964
💡design
This architectural marvel was built on the site of a wooden church destroyed during World War II. The building’s most distinctive feature is its hyperbolic paraboloid structure, composed of eight curved surfaces. These curves form a cross shape, representing prayers ascending to heaven.
The interior space masterfully incorporates natural light, with sunlight reflecting off the stainless steel surfaces to create a sacred atmosphere. The building reaches a height of 39.4 meters and can accommodate approximately 1,500 people.
https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/materials-construction/what-are-hyperbolic-paraboloid-shells/#:~:text=Hyperbolic%20Paraboloids%20(also%20known%20as,surfaces%20with%20negative%20Gaussian%20curvature.
💡architect
Kenzo Tange (1913-2005) was a leading figure in Japanese modernist architecture. His notable works include the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Yoyogi National Gymnasium. He was awarded The Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1987, and his innovative architectural style has received worldwide recognition.
💡The appeal of a town
Near St. Mary’s Cathedral’s closest station, Gokokuji Station, you’ll find the historic Gokokuji Temple and Edogawa Park, offering a peaceful atmosphere despite being in central Tokyo. The cathedral complex also includes a popular café, perfect for relaxing after exploring the architecture.
https://kaunsell.resiclub.com/article/127
https://www.gokokuji.or.jp/english/about
https://omatsurijapan.com/blog/edogawa-sakura-2021/
💡Other masterpiece
Tange’s other masterpieces include the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Yoyogi National Gymnasium, and Shizuoka Broadcasting Center. The Yoyogi National Gymnasium, built for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, is particularly notable for its innovative suspended roof structure, which has garnered international acclaim.
St. Mary’s Cathedral represents a perfect fusion of modern architectural innovation and sacred space design. Its striking geometric forms and masterful use of light continue to inspire architects and visitors alike, making it an essential destination for architecture enthusiasts visiting Tokyo.
#back number
- Path to Ninja Mastery! 3 Authentic Ninja Training Experiences in Tokyo’s 23 Wards
- Unleash the Thunder: Epic Sumo Wrestling Showdown at Ryogoku’s Sacred Dohyo!
- HANA BIYORI: Experience Breathtaking Seasonal Views at Tokyo’s Hidden Gem!
- Kenzo Tange’s St. Mary’s Cathedral: A Masterpiece of Modern Japanese Architecture in Tokyo
- Ultimate Guide: Tokyo’s Revolutionary Art Toilets That Broke The Internet🚽
