
Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building
A 1958 architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, offering free panoramic city views and a glimpse into modernist design.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos

Kagawa Prefectural Government Office East Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1958 architectural masterpiece by Kenzo Tange, offering free panoramic city views and a glimpse into modernist design.
"A masterpiece by great Japanese architect, Kenzo Tange."

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
First Floor Lobby
Enjoy the spacious lobby featuring the mural 'Wakei Seijaku' by Genichiro Inokuma. A peaceful spot to relax.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Architectural Gem with a View
Beyond the Building
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Lobby Relaxation
The first-floor lobby is a great place to take a break and admire the art. :chair:
Nearby Udon
Famous udon restaurants are just a minute's walk away. Perfect for a post-visit meal! :ramen:
Tips
from all over the internet
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:
Lobby Relaxation
The first-floor lobby is a great place to take a break and admire the art. :chair:
Nearby Udon
Famous udon restaurants are just a minute's walk away. Perfect for a post-visit meal! :ramen:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
The observation deck on the 21st floor offers free admission, providing excellent views of Takamatsu.
Government buildings usually have limited public access on weekends and holidays. It's advisable to plan your visit for a weekday to ensure access.
While primarily a government office, the lobby sometimes features art or displays. Check local listings for any temporary exhibitions or events.
📸 📸 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.
The 21st-floor observation deck offers stunning cityscapes. The brutalist exterior and the first-floor lobby with its mural are also prime photography locations.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around government buildings. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
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.
Yes, the observation deck is specifically designed for visitors to enjoy and photograph the panoramic views of Takamatsu and the Seto Inland Sea.
🍽️ 🍜 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.
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).
There are several highly-regarded udon restaurants within a very short walking distance, including the famous Sakaeda Udon.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🏛️ Architecture & Art Enthusiasts
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.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Vision of Kenzo Tange
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.
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.
Experiencing Takamatsu from Above
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.
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.
Beyond the Building: Kagawa's Unique Attractions
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.
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. 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.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit