ArchiNotes

National Museum of Western Art

1959Taito, TokyoUNESCO

National Museum of Western Art
Le Corbusier’s museum main building in Japan—the Museum of Infinite Growth idea adapted to local conditions. Galleries expanding from a central hall link to a plan that anticipated collection growth. Also a hinge in Japanese modern architecture through collaboration with Maekawa, Sakakura, Yoshizaka and others.

Highlights

  • Central hall — What order governs branching into the galleries?
  • Pilotis and exterior — In Ueno’s context, how does the building meet the ground and open up?

Architects

Visit notes

Check official hours, closed days, and fees. Note different designers for the main building versus later additions.