By Cathy Hirano

Despite its small size, Takamatsu has works by some of Japan’s most renowned architects. These include Tange Kenzo (1913-2005), acclaimed as one of the most significant architects of the 20th century. The seat of the prefectural government located in downtown Takamatsu is considered a signature work.



Tange was influenced by Le Corbusier (1887-1965) and the international style of architecture, which promoted a simplification of form, rejection of ornamentation and the use of glass, steel and concrete. In the prefectural office building, however, Tange took this one step further to develop his own modern architectural style that blended Western and Japanese aesthetics.

The railings in both height and design evoke the railings on Japanese temples and shrines.



Although built of concrete, the structure mimics elements of traditional Japanese wooden architecture, such as the latticed effect in the photo below.



Again, though built of concrete, the style suggests wooden post-and-beam construction and the building itself resembles a pagoda. The open space and glass paneling give transparency, blurring the distinction between inside and out.



Tange also created a traditional yet modern Japanese garden. As a result, the lobby feels like a tranquil oasis, despite being located in the hub of bureaucracy.



The piloti (columns) create a communal space in front of the entrance



and frame the view of the street. The photo below reminds me of the raised passageways that join buildings in Japanese temples and shrines.



Tange often worked with outstanding artists and artisans. In this case, Genichiro Inokuma (1902-1993), a well-known contemporary artist and Kagawa native, was instrumental in introducing Tange to this project and his own work is featured prominently as 4 wall murals surrounding the central core of the building.



Using the motifs of the sun and the moon, the murals represent the 4 characters for the principles of tea ceremony, Wa, Kei, Sei, Jaku (harmony, respect, purity, tranquility).



Tange also employed, Isamu Kenmochi (1912-1971), a leading figure in Japanese industrial design, to create furniture specifically for this space.


(Looking through Kenmochi’s shelves.)

Tange, himself, designed the round chairs, which are made of ceramic.



This building, along with the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, is one of the finest examples of Tange’s work during this period. It was selected by DO-CO-MO-MO, an international organization for conservation headquartered in Spain, as one of the 20 best works of the modern movement in Japan. As such, I hope that the local appreciate its historic value and continue to treat it with respect.