Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building
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Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building

4.1
·111 reviews·Takamatsu, Japan

A 1958 architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, offering free panoramic city views and a glimpse into modernist design.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdLow
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Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building

Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 1958 architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, offering free panoramic city views and a glimpse into modernist design.

4.1
(111 reviews)

"A masterpiece by great Japanese architect, Kenzo Tange."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free City Views

Head to the 21st floor for stunning, free panoramic views of Takamatsu! :cityscape:

Architectural Significance

Appreciate this masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, a designated Important Cultural Property. :building_construction:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kenzo Tange Architecture

Kenzo Tange Architecture

Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building

A masterpiece of brutalist concrete, this 1958 building is a defining work of Kenzo Tange's early career.

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

21st Floor, Main Building

Ascend to the 21st floor for breathtaking, free panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the Seto Inland Sea.

Lobby Art and Ambiance

Lobby Art and Ambiance

First Floor Lobby

Enjoy the spacious lobby featuring the mural 'Wakei Seijaku' by Genichiro Inokuma. A peaceful spot to relax.

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Planning Your Visit

Architectural Gem with a View

This iconic 1958 building by Kenzo Tange is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Don't miss the free panoramic views of Takamatsu from the 21st floor of the main building. It's a designated Important Cultural Property and still an active government office.

Beyond the Building

While the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building is a highlight, Kagawa offers more. Explore unique shrines like Takaya Shrine ('Torii of the Sky') and the 'Missing Post Office' for a different kind of experience. Consider pairing your visit with local udon.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy the city views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

日本一の絶景「高屋神社〜天空の鳥居〜」 香川県観音寺市にある高屋神社(本宮)は「天空の鳥居」として知られています。標高404メートルの稲積山の頂上にある本宮からは美しい瀬戸内海と観音寺市内が一望でき、日本一の絶景で金運パワースポットでもあります。 「Takaya Shrine ~Torii of the Sky~」 Takaya Shrine (Hongu) in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture, is known as the "torii in the sky." Located atop Mount Inazumi at an elevation of 404 meters, the Hongu overlooks the beautiful Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kanonji. #高屋神社 #天空の鳥居 #...
@hay4te.s7
601.1K likes • 6.2M views

Free City Views

Head to the 21st floor for stunning, free panoramic views of Takamatsu! :cityscape: Reddit

Architectural Significance

Appreciate this masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, a designated Important Cultural Property. :building_construction: Instagram

動画見て頂きありがとうございます。YouTubeにも動画を投稿していますので、チャンネル登録して頂けると嬉しいです。                  【刈田神楽社中の神楽の奉納】 香川県観音寺市にある粟井神社は「あじさいの宮」として知られており、この時期には境内にある約3千株の紫陽花が見頃を迎えます。 6月11日には「あじさい祭り」も開催され、神楽も奉納されました。 Dedication of Kagura by the Karita Kagura Company Awai Shrine in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture, is known as the "Shrine of Hydrangeas," and at this time of year, the 3,000 hydrangea plants on its grounds are at t...
@hay4te.s7
237.8K likes • 2.9M views
The Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building. Built in 1958 and designed by Kenzo Tange. This is considered one of the defining works of his early career. The brutalist concrete exterior is styled after the traditional post and beam architecture seen in vernacular Japanese buildings. #architecture #japanarchitecture #japanesearchitecture #brutalist #brutalistarchitecture #1950s #kenzot...
japanpropertycentral
728 likes • 15.8K views

Lobby Relaxation

The first-floor lobby is a great place to take a break and admire the art. :chair: Reddit

Nearby Udon

Famous udon restaurants are just a minute's walk away. Perfect for a post-visit meal! :ramen: Reddit

Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building, by Kenzo Tange (1958), in Takamatsu, Japan.
modarchitecture
252 likes • 5.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free City Views

Head to the 21st floor for stunning, free panoramic views of Takamatsu! :cityscape: Reddit

Architectural Significance

Appreciate this masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, a designated Important Cultural Property. :building_construction: Instagram

Lobby Relaxation

The first-floor lobby is a great place to take a break and admire the art. :chair: Reddit

Nearby Udon

Famous udon restaurants are just a minute's walk away. Perfect for a post-visit meal! :ramen: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(111 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building for its significant architectural merit and the stunning, free panoramic views from the 21st floor. It's considered a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and offers a peaceful respite with its art-filled lobby. Some may find it less engaging if not interested in architecture.

"Good for photographers and architects. It is one of the most influential building in Japan built by Tange Kenzo in 1958."

fai choi

"a masterpiece by great Japanese architect, kenzo tange"

Harry Kurniawan

"The Kagawa Prefectural Office, designed by Kenzo Tange, boasts outstanding architectural aesthetics. Climb to the 21st floor of the main building for a free view of Takamatsu."

Chanwook Lee

What People Like

Iconic Kenzo Tange architecture
Free panoramic city views
Peaceful lobby ambiance

What People Dislike

Limited appeal for non-architecture fans

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The building is located in Takamatsu city. It's easily accessible by public transport. From Takamatsu Station, it's a short walk or a quick bus ride. Many visitors combine it with other attractions in the city. Reddit

While it's a government building, parking information for visitors might be limited. It's generally recommended to use public transportation due to its central location in Takamatsu. Reddit

Yes, the building is a great stop for a day trip to Takamatsu. You can easily fit it into a day exploring the city's art and cultural sites. Reddit

The Shinkansen (bullet train) is the most efficient way to travel between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Takamatsu. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the building, including the lobby and the 21st-floor observation deck, is generally free. It's an active government building, so respectful behavior is expected. Reddit

As it's a government building, hours typically align with standard business hours on weekdays. It's best to check for any specific public access times, especially for the observation deck. Reddit

The observation deck on the 21st floor offers free admission, providing excellent views of Takamatsu. Reddit

Government buildings usually have limited public access on weekends and holidays. It's advisable to plan your visit for a weekday to ensure access. Reddit

While primarily a government office, the lobby sometimes features art or displays. Check local listings for any temporary exhibitions or events. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in public areas like the lobby and observation deck. However, always be mindful of government operations and avoid photographing sensitive areas or personnel. InstagramReddit

The 21st-floor observation deck offers stunning cityscapes. The brutalist exterior and the first-floor lobby with its mural are also prime photography locations. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around government buildings. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the building's concrete textures, while late afternoon might offer softer light and city views from the observation deck. TikTok

Yes, the observation deck is specifically designed for visitors to enjoy and photograph the panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea. Reddit

🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining

The building itself primarily serves government functions. However, the first-floor lobby is a pleasant space to relax. For dining, numerous excellent restaurants are located nearby. Reddit

Kagawa is famous for its Sanuki Udon! You'll find many highly-rated udon shops throughout the prefecture. Other local specialties include Honetsukidori (bone-in chicken). TikTok

There are several highly-regarded udon restaurants within a very short walking distance, including the famous Sakaeda Udon. TikTokReddit

While not a primary feature, the lobby might offer a place to sit and enjoy a beverage. For more substantial options, the surrounding area is well-equipped. Reddit

Besides udon, Takamatsu offers a variety of dining experiences. Look for izakayas (Japanese pubs) and restaurants specializing in fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building is primarily an architectural site, families can still find enjoyment. The first-floor lobby offers a spacious and calm environment for children to rest, and the 21st-floor observation deck provides exciting panoramic views of the city and sea that can captivate young imaginations. Reddit

Beyond the building, Kagawa offers more family-friendly activities. Consider visiting Takaya Shrine for its unique 'Torii of the Sky' which can be an adventure to reach, or explore the 'Missing Post Office' for a quirky, thought-provoking stop. Of course, a trip to Kagawa wouldn't be complete without trying Sanuki Udon, a universally loved dish that's usually a hit with kids. TikTok+2

🏛️ Architecture & Art Enthusiasts

For those passionate about architecture and art, the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building is a pilgrimage destination. Designed by the legendary Kenzo Tange, this 1958 masterpiece is a prime example of his early modernist style, blending brutalist concrete with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Its status as an Important Cultural Property highlights its significance in architectural history. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond the building's structure, don't miss the Genichiro Inokuma mural in the lobby, a significant piece of art that complements the architectural space. The 21st-floor observation deck also offers a unique perspective on urban design and the surrounding landscape. Kagawa Prefecture itself is a hub for art, with initiatives that have attracted world-renowned artists, making this building a symbolic starting point for exploring the region's artistic heritage. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

The Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building offers fantastic opportunities for photographers. The brutalist concrete exterior provides striking lines and textures, especially in good light. The first-floor lobby, with its spaciousness and the 'Wakei Seijaku' mural, is another visually appealing area. InstagramReddit

The undisputed highlight for photographers is the 21st-floor observation deck. Capture sweeping panoramic views of Takamatsu city and the picturesque Seto Inland Sea. The changing light throughout the day offers different moods for your shots. Nearby, Takaya Shrine's 'Torii of the Sky' is an iconic Instagram spot, and the 'Missing Post Office' offers a more atmospheric and unique photographic subject. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Vision of Kenzo Tange

The Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building, completed in 1958, is a seminal work by the renowned architect Kenzo Tange. It's celebrated for its brutalist concrete exterior, which ingeniously draws inspiration from traditional Japanese post-and-beam architecture. This design philosophy, blending modernism with vernacular elements, was groundbreaking for its time and established Tange as a leading figure in architectural innovation. The building is not just aesthetically significant; it's a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, underscoring its national importance. Instagram+1

Beyond its striking facade, the building's interior, particularly the first-floor lobby, offers a serene experience. The lobby features the mural 'Wakei Seijaku' by Kagawa-born artist Genichiro Inokuma, further cementing the building's connection to local art and culture. Visitors can appreciate the thoughtful design, which Tange intended to foster a sense of community and functionality. Even after decades, the building remains an active government office, a testament to its enduring design and structural integrity. Reddit

For architecture enthusiasts, this building is a pilgrimage site. It represents a crucial period in Tange's career and offers insights into the post-war architectural landscape of Japan. The building's influence can be seen in subsequent architectural projects, making it a vital piece of modern architectural history. Instagram+1

Experiencing Takamatsu from Above

One of the most accessible and rewarding aspects of visiting the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building is the free panoramic view from the 21st floor of the main building. This observation deck provides an unparalleled vantage point over Takamatsu city, allowing visitors to survey the urban landscape, the surrounding mountains, and the shimmering Seto Inland Sea. It’s a perfect spot to orient yourself and appreciate the geography of the region. Reddit

Visiting the observation deck offers a unique perspective on Takamatsu, especially for those interested in urban planning or simply enjoying a scenic vista. The views are particularly striking during clear weather, offering expansive vistas that stretch across the water. It’s a quiet escape from the bustle of the city below, providing a moment of reflection and appreciation for the beauty of Kagawa Prefecture. Reddit

This free access to such a commanding view makes the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building a highly recommended stop for any visitor. It’s an opportunity to see the city from a different angle and capture memorable photographs without any cost. Reddit

Beyond the Building: Kagawa's Unique Attractions

While the Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building is an architectural marvel, Kagawa Prefecture offers a wealth of other unique attractions that appeal to diverse interests. For those seeking spiritual and scenic beauty, Takaya Shrine (also known as 'Torii of the Sky') is a must-visit. Perched atop Mount Inazumi, its iconic torii gate offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. TikTok

Another intriguing destination is the 'Missing Post Office' in Mitoyo City. This unique art installation is a post office that only accepts letters addressed to lost loves, deceased relatives, or one's future self. It offers a poignant and reflective experience, drawing visitors interested in art, journaling, and unconventional cultural sites. TikTok+1

Kagawa is also famously known as the 'Udon Prefecture' of Japan. No visit is complete without indulging in Sanuki Udon, the region's signature noodle dish. Numerous local eateries, from casual shops to more established restaurants, serve this delicious and affordable specialty. TikTokReddit For Pokémon fans, Takamatsu has also embraced the 'Pokémon Local Acts' initiative, with Slowpoke being the ambassador for Kagawa Prefecture, adding a fun, pop-culture element to the travel experience. TikTok

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