asakusa tourist information centre

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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is not just a valuable source of sightseeing advice, but one of Asakusa’s newest sightseeing attractions. The Center, which opened in April 2012, is housed in an attractive contemporary building of timber and glass that was designed by Kengo Kuma. Kuma is of course the world renowned architect who designed the New National Stadium that will be the main venue for the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is more modest in its design and purpose, but it is still a very striking structure with the appearance of a stack of separate wooden buildings that have been piled up on top of each other at different angles.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center’s facilities include an information counter, an exhibition space, a café, and an observation deck. All the facilities are free to enter. The Tourist Information Center also organizes its own free English language guided walking tours of Asakusa every weekend.

The tourist information counter

The staff at the information counter speak English, Chinese, and Korean as well as Japanese. Sightseeing maps and brochures in these languages are available and the staff will be happy to take enquiries about local sightseeing attractions, culture, and history, as well as offering advice on transport and accommodation. Staff can also provide information on cultural experiences such as cooking and kimono-wearing experiences.

Other facilities include a foreign currency exchange counter, free Wi-Fi internet access, computers that visitors can use to access the internet for free, a multipurpose toilet, and a nursing room with baby changing facilities.

From the open terrace Observation Deck on the 8th floor of the Center, you can get a good view of the Kaminarimon, with Nakamise and Sensoji Temple on one side, and on the other side is another splendid view of Tokyo Skytree and the Asahi Flame. There is also a café on the 8th floor where you can get light meals, snacks, beers and other refreshments.

The entrance to Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is located on the south side of Kaminariomon-dori Street, and is directly across from the Kaminarimon Gate.

From Exit 1 of Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line it is a 1 minute walk. From Exit A4 of Toei Asakusa Station on the Asakusa Line it is a 2 minute walk. From the Main Exit of Tobu Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line it is a 3 minute walk. From Exit A1 of TX Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express Line it is an 8 minute walk.

Opening Hours

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is open every day from 9.00-20.00. Miharashi Café on the 8th floor is open every day from 10.00-20.00. The Observation Deck closes at 22.00.

Article by Michael Lambe. Photos by chariari/pixta (1) and Michael Lambe. All rights reserved.

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Top Page ＞ ASAKUSA CULTURE TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER

ASAKUSA CULTURE TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER

"Search, Show, Support" is the motto of this tourist information facility.

Services are provided in four languages, and visitors can take advantage of free Wi-Fi and devices that can be used for information searches.

The observation terrace on the 8th floor has a wonderful view.

*Please contact us for details of services.

Facility Information

8th floor observation terrace open 9:00～22:00

Open all year round

2-18-9, Kaminarimon, Taito City, 111-0034

Stations Nearby

1 min. on foot from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station Exit No.2 5 min. on foot from Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line) Asakusa Station

03-3842-5566

Japanese / English / Chinese / Korean

Wi-Fi spot /  WiFi rental /  Arrangement of various tickets /  Money exchange /  Power source available /  Accessible facility for disabled people /  WC /  Nursing room /  Dining information

Wheelchair-accessible toilets, portable hearing loops, signal aids

Local Area Map

Directions search

Kappabashi Kitchenware Town

https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/59/index.html

Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center

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Time Out says

It's hard to miss the stunning Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center designed by Kengo Kuma, located across the street from another visitor magnet, Sensoji Temple 's Kaminarimon gate. Besides offering free guided tours, currency exchange and an information desk, the eight-storey building also sports a (covered) observation deck, which offers the best views of Sensoji without having to jostle through the crowds.

You'll find exhibitions and cultural events on the other floors but if you're short of battery power best make a beeline for the street-facing counter on the second floor – it's fitted with electrical charging points. 

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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information

A superb view at tourist center's free observation deck

Aside from the Tokyo Metropolitan Building, I discovered another establishment that has a free observation deck. It is at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. This tourist center is only a minute walk from Asakusa Station (Ginza Line).

The last time I was in Tokyo, I did not get a chance to go to Asakusa. So, I suggested to my friend that we go to one of the top tourist spots in that area--the colorful Sensoji Temple . As we were walking towards the temple, looking for the Kaminari Gate (entrance of Sensoji Temple), I spotted this very unique building which looked like vertical wood designs and that each floor seemed layers of unevenly-built roofs. It may not be striking for some people since it is located along a pretty crowded road, but definitely, this building will catch the attention of architecture enthusiasts like me.

My friend and I decided to go inside this strange building to check if there was something interesting to see. We figured that the place might be important because of its eye-catching architectural design. At first, we thought it was a museum. We later learned that it was actually the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. This is the place to be for tourists who want to get some travel information about Tokyo. T he staff were so polite and helpful. I admire and commend their excellent customer service.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center offers so many free awesome services such as connecting to WiFi, the use of computers, clean toilets, English maps, brochures of must-see places in Tokyo, and of course, the fantastic view of the Asakusa area. Yes, all these are absolutely free. The view deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is on the top floor and from there, you can see all the distinct landmarks of Northern Tokyo such as Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Sumida River, Sumida Park, Tokyo Skytree and Asahi Beer Tower.

There is no need to pay for a great view of the city from the observation deck of Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree if you are traveling on a tight budget. Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is quite a hidden gem for a free panoramic view. This is definitely one of the best tourist information centers I have been to in Tokyo. I highly suggest foreigners go check out this place for a snapshot of a great city view.

Find out more about Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center .

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Information

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo ( Directions )

city.taito.lg.jp

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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center: A Tokyo Traveler's Ally

Right across from Asakusa's iconic Kaminarimon Gate is Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. Drop by this facility to get Tokyo travel information, enjoy a fabulous view of Asakusa for free, and make use of other services like currency exchange and charging your phone.

Mako Hayashi

Get Tokyo Travel Tips at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

When mentioning Asakusa , the first thing that comes to mind is Kaminarimon Gate and its giant lantern. Right across the street from Kaminarimon is a modern style building standing out in the area. This is the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center , operated by Tokyo's Taito ward.

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center offers travel-related services such as guidance and support in four languages, free Wi-Fi, as well as AC outlets where visitors can charge their phones. Read on to learn more about the extremely convenient services offered here.

As a side note, smoking is not allowed within the building; also visitors cannot enter accompanied by animals that are not service-pets.

First Floor: The Travel Information Counter

Information desk.

When you enter the building, the first thing you'll notice is the information desk (pictured above). Sightseeing tours around Asakusa and Sensoji Temple are offered in up to four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Feel free to ask here any questions about sightseeing in Asakusa.

Foreign Currency Exchange

Cash is indispensable when traveling in Japan. If you wish the exchange currency while in Asakusa, you can do that here at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center or at a nearby bank . Please note that there are not many other facilities offering this service in the area.

A Miniature Recreation of Asakusa

There is a miniature reproduction of Asakusa on display on the first floor. All the famous destinations in Asakusa are introduced and pointed out on the map, so you can plan your trip while looking at Asakusa from above.

Travel Library at the Mezzanine and Second Floor

A standing counter with electrical outlets.

There is a counter right by the window facing Kaminarimon Gate at the mezzanine and on the second floor. This counter has outlets that are free to use. This space also offers free WiFi. You can come up with some travel plans, or just relaxwhile getting in a view of Sensoji Temple.

Travel Information Corner

On the second floor, there are search computers you can use for free, as well as all leaflets with travel infromation on Asakusa and Tokyo. You should definitely use these tools to help you build up your travel plans.

Nursing Room

There's a nursing room on the second floor only accessible to women. In addition to a nursing booth, there is also a diaper changing table , as well as a baby formula water heater . If you travel with your baby, do stop here for a rest.

Sixth and Seventh Floors: Asakusa Culture Exhibitions and Events

Sixth floor: multi-purpose space.

This small theater-like space is used to project videos that introduce the culture of Asakusa and Tokyo. You can bring food and drink here, so you can use this spot to relax.

This space is also used for performances and traditional dance lessons at times.

Seventh Floor: Exhibition Space

The exhibition room on the seventh floor hosts temporary displays showcasing the culture and history of Asakusa. Using the digital screens in the precincts, you can browse through old images and learn about the traditional crafts that developed in this area.

Eight Floor: Enjoy a Fabulous View of Asakusa

Observation terrace.

On the top floor, there is an Observation Terrace where you can take break, and enjoy a great view of the Asakusa area. This observatory can be accessed free of charge . Moreover, it's open every day until 22:00!

Sensoji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, and other Asakusa landmarks are visible from here. We highly recommend dropping by to take in this breathtaing view!

Asakusa Observation Terrace Cafe Rion

On the eighth floor of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, you'll find Cafe Rion, a chic cafe with a great view of Sensoji Temple from above.

This cafe offers a wide range of beverages, including coffee, softdrinks, and alcoholic beverages. They also offer various types of ice cream desserts, as well as a lunch menu featuring homemade curry rice and Napolitan spagetti; the lunch menu costs around 900 yen. Take some time to relax while enjoying the view over Asakusa.

Fun and Reliable! Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Besides the services introduced above, the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center also has a ladies' bathroom with a fitting board (a pull-down step that can be used in order to change stockings and such in the bathroom), as well as a photo printing area on the second floor (for a fee).

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center offers a wealth of services useful for travelers, as well as assistance in times of trouble, travel and culture information, as well as a wonderful view of Asakusa. A visit to this facility will ensure that you have the best Tokyo trip ever.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Address: Tokyo, Taito, Kaminarimon 2-18-9 Hours: 9:00-20:00 (cafe 10:00-20:00, observation terrace open until 22:00) Holidays: open year-round Access: Train TOBU Skytree Line - 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station Toei Metro Ginza Line - 1-minute walk from Exit 2 of Asakusa Station Toei Asakusa Line - 2-minute walk from A4 Exit of Asakusa Station Tsukuba Express - 10-minute walk from A1 Exit of Asakusa Station

Bus Toei Bus - Asakusa Kaminarimon (Bus stops depend on bus route)

Phone: 03-3842-5566 Official Homepage: Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Asakusa Culture Tourism Center

Ueno / Asakusa / Akihabara

東京生まれ東京育ち東京在住の20歳。大学生をしています。動物とたわむれることと散歩をすることがとっても好きです。世界中の野生の動物に会いに行ったり、世界中の街を散歩しに行ったり、いつかできたらいいなぁ、なーんて思ってます。

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Asakusa Culture Tourist information Center

• Multilingual Staff English, Chinese, Korean
• Wi-Fi Available for free

Location Information

2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0034

• Nearest Station Asakusa Station ･ Tokyo Metro Ginza Line ･ Toei Asakusa Line ･ Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Sky Tree Line) ･ Tsukuba Express 1 minute on foot
• Phone Number 03-3842-5566 Available languages English, Chinese, Korean
• Hours Every day 9:00am - 8:00pm

Further Facilities & Services

• Information Counter
• Foreign Exchange Counter US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), British Pound (GBP), Japanese Yen (JPY), Chinese Yuan (CNY), Canadian Dollar (CAD), Australian Dollar (AUD), Korean Won (KRW), Hong Kong Dollar (HKD), New Taiwan Dollar (TWD), Thai Baht (THB), Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), Other
• ATM: available
• Category3 Full-time service in English as well as at least two other languages. Tourist information is available in all of Japan, operating seven days a week with on-site Wi-Fi. The location acts as a gateway for a large number of international tourists.
• Category2 English-speaking staff is available and the information service covers a large area.

• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center

The Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center is a distinctive seven-level building in Asakusa, directly opposite the famous Kaminarimon Gate of Sensoji Temple .

The Culture and Tourism Center is designed by famed architect Kengo Kuma and has a free observation deck and cafe on the 7th floor, with great views of Sensoji and Tokyo Skytree . It’s even made our list of top spots for a view of Tokyo .

On the ground floor is an information center with English-speaking staff.

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• 0.6 km from Tawaramachi Station Ginza Line (G18)
• 0.8 km from Honjo-azumabashi Station Asakusa Line (A19)

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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Introduction

Description.

Fotos WikiArquitectura (Febrero 2013)

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Asakusa (��) is the center of Tokyo 's shitamachi (literally "low city"), one of Tokyo's districts, where an atmosphere of the Tokyo of past decades survives.

Asakusa's main attraction is Sensoji , a very popular Buddhist temple , built in the 7th century. The temple is approached via the Nakamise , a shopping street that has been providing temple visitors with a variety of traditional, local snacks and tourist souvenirs for centuries.

Asakusa can easily be explored on foot. Alternatively, you can consider a guided tour on a rickshaw (jinrikisha, literally "man powered vehicle"). A 30 minute tour for two persons costs around 9000 yen . Shorter and longer courses are also available.

For many centuries, Asakusa used to be Tokyo 's leading entertainment district. During the Edo Period (1603-1867), when the district was still located outside the city limits, Asakusa was the site of kabuki theaters and a large red light district. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, modern types of entertainment, including movie theaters, set foot in Asakusa.

However, large parts of Asakusa were destroyed in the air raids of 1945. And while the area around the rebuilt Sensoji has since regained its former popularity, the same cannot be said for Asakusa's entertainment district . The opening of the 634 meter tall Tokyo Skytree , a twenty minute walk across the Sumida River from Asakusa, has led to an increase of tourists again.

Temples and shrines

Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate)

Sensoji Temple

Asakusa Shrine

Dempoin Temple

Nakamise Shopping Street

Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street

Kappabashi Shopping Street

Rox Department Store

Tobu Asakusa Station & Matsuya Department Store

Asakusa Underground Street

Other attractions.

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Sumida River Cruise

Sumida Park

Rokku Entertainment District

Hanayashiki Amusement Park

Asahi Beer Tower

Taikokan (Drum Museum)

Suzukien Nanaya Gelato

Asakusa Kagetsudo

Getting there and around

Asakusa is served by the Ginza Subway Line, Asakusa Subway Line, Tsukuba Express and Tobu Railway. It can also be accessed by the Tokyo Water Bus .

From Tokyo Station

Take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station (2 minutes, 150 yen) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, 180 yen).

From Shinjuku Station

Take the orange JR Chuo Line to Kanda Station (10 minutes, 180 yen) and transfer to the Ginza Subway Line for Asakusa (10 minutes, 180 yen).

Orientation in Tokyo

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Asakusa nakamise, matsuya asakusa, tokyo water cruise, asakusa shin-nakamise, asakusa umezono, hotels around tokyo.

Experiences around Tokyo

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

(Source: kstyle / PIXTA )

Terrace on the 8th floor with a view

(Source: i-flower / PIXTA )

6th and 7th floor: Exhibition and Event floor

(Source: heritager )

Asakusa Miharashi Cafe

(Source: 　 )

Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a unique and stunning building located in Asakusa right next to Senesoji at the end of Nakamise Shopping Street . Designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, the center was completed in 2012 and has since become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The center is situated on the south side of Kaminariomon-dori Street, directly across from the Kaminarimon Gate, and serves as a hub for visitors to the Asakusa area. The design of the building is inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, with a modern twist that makes it stand out from its surroundings.

Key Takeaways

• Information counter, ticket sales, and foreign currency exchange are available on the 1st floor.
• The 8th-floor observation terrace offers a panoramic view of the Tokyo Sky Tree, the Asahi Beer Azumabashi Headquarters Building, and the flame sculpture in the Super Dry Hall
• From the Kaminarimon intersection, also known as the viewpoint for the Tokyo Sky Tree, you can see the Kaminarimon gate and the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center at the same time
• The 8th floor observation terrace overlooks Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Asakusa Hanayashiki, and the Asakusa View Hotel.
• Exhibition space on the 7th floor
• The 8th floor observation terrace overlooking Tokyo Sky Tree is available free of charge.
• Asakusa sundaes and ningyo-yaki shakes can be enjoyed at the 8th floor Asakusa Observation Cafe Miharashiya
• Features a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the surrounding area.

Location and Access

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is one of the biggest tourist information centers in Tokyo. It is located in front of the Kaminari-mon Gate, on the south side of Kaminari-mon-dori Street. The center is situated in a prime location, with easy access to several train stations and other tourist attractions.

If you are coming from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station, take Exit No.2 and walk for just one minute to reach the center. From Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line) Asakusa Station, it is just a five-minute walk. For those coming from the Toei Asakusa Station on the Asakusa Line, take Exit A4 and walk for two minutes to reach the center.

The center is open all year round, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The 8th floor observation terrace is open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The center is free to visit, and visitors can access a wide range of facilities and services, including tourist information, free Wi-Fi, a souvenir shop, and a café.

Architecture and Design

The impressive building was designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, a leading architectural firm in Japan and was completed in 2012. The center was designed to serve as a hub for tourists visiting the area and to promote the local culture and history.

The building’s design was inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, specifically the torii gates found at Shinto shrines. The center’s facade is made up of wooden slats arranged in a grid pattern, creating a unique and visually striking appearance. The wooden slats also serve a functional purpose, providing shade and ventilation while allowing natural light to filter into the building.

The interior of the center is just as impressive as the exterior. The building’s multi-level design allows for a variety of spaces, including a tourist information center, conference rooms, an exhibition space, and a multi-purpose hall. The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the local culture.

The center’s design is also environmentally friendly. The building incorporates a number of sustainable features, such as a green roof that helps to reduce the building’s energy consumption and rainwater harvesting systems that help to conserve water.

Services and Facilities

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a one-stop shop for all your travel needs. Here are some of the services and facilities that you can expect at this facility:

• Information Counter: The information counter is located on the first floor of the facility. Here, you can get information about tourist attractions, events, transportation, and more. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to help.
• Exhibition Space: The exhibition space on the first floor showcases the history and culture of Asakusa. The exhibits change regularly, so there is always something new to see.
• Café: The café on the first floor serves light meals and snacks. It’s a great place to take a break and relax.
• Observation Deck: The observation deck on the eighth floor offers a stunning view of Asakusa and the surrounding area. It’s open from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.
• Free Wi-Fi: The facility offers free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected while you’re on the go.
• Foreign Language Support: The staff at the information counter can speak English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages, so you can get the help you need in your native language.

Exhibitions and Events

The Information Center is not just a place to get information about the area, but also a hub for cultural exhibitions and events. The sixth and seventh floors are dedicated to showcasing various aspects of Japanese culture through exhibitions and events.

The exhibitions held here are always changing, so it’s worth checking out what’s on during your visit. Past exhibitions have included displays of traditional Japanese crafts, such as pottery and textiles, as well as contemporary art exhibitions featuring local artists.

In addition to exhibitions, the center also hosts a variety of cultural events, including traditional Japanese music performances, tea ceremonies, and calligraphy workshops.

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that showcases the unique blend of traditional Japanese elements and modern design. The building serves as a tourist information center and an urban signifier, connecting visitors with Asakusa’s past, present, and future.

The building’s design is a perfect example of how architecture can blend with the surrounding environment and create a harmonious space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The use of wood and glass creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the intricate lattice pattern on the exterior adds a touch of elegance and refinement.

One of the most impressive features of the building is the spiral staircase that leads visitors up to the observation deck. The staircase is made of wood and steel and is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese lantern. The use of natural materials and the attention to detail make the staircase a work of art in itself.

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is not only a functional building but also an architectural wonder that has become a popular tourist attraction in its own right. It is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of its designer, Kengo Kuma, and a shining example of how architecture can enhance our lives and enrich our experiences.

The Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center in Taito-ku, Tokyo was renovated and reopened in 2012, with an information counter, ticket sales, and foreign currency exchange on the 1st floor, an exhibition space on the 7th floor with panels showing viewpoints of the Tokyo Sky Tree , and a free admission area on the 8th floor.

On the 8th floor, there is a free observation terrace and the Asakusa Observation Cafe “Miharashiya” where you can enjoy Asakusa sundaes, ningyo-yaki shakes, and alcoholic beverages. In addition, there are computers available for information search and Wi-Fi access.

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Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center / Kengo Kuma & Associates

• Curated by ArchDaily
• Architects: Kengo Kuma & Associates
• Area Area of this architecture project Area:  234 m²
• Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2012
• Photographs Photographs: Takeshi Yamagishi
• Architects:  Kengo Kuma & Associates
• Design Team:  Kengo Kuma, Teppei Fujiwara, Masafumi Harigai, Okayama Naoki, Kiyoaki Takeda, Masaru Shuku, Erina Kuryu, Hiroaki Saito
• City:  Tokyo
• Country:  Japan

Text description provided by the architects. In the corner premise of just 326㎡ across Kaminari-mon Gate, the building was required to accommodate plural programs such as tourist information center, conference room, multi-purpose hall and an exhibition space.

The center extends Asakusa’s lively neighborhood vertically and piles up roofs that wrap different activities underneath, creating a “new section” which had not existed in conventional layered architecture. Equipments are stored in the diagonally shaped spaces born between the roof and the floor, and by this treatment we could secure large air volume despite its just average height for high-and medium-rise buildings.

Furthermore, the roofs not only divide the structure into 8 one-storied houses but also determine the role of each floor. First and second floor has an atrium and in-door stairs, creating a sequence from which you can feel the slope of the two roofs.

On 6th floor, taking advantage of the slanted roof, we were able to set up a terraced floor with which the entire room can function as a theater. As angles of the roofs inclined toward Kaminari-mon and the heights from the ground vary from floor to floor, each floor relates differently to the outside, giving a unique character to each space. 

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浅草文化旅游信息中心 / Kengo Kuma & Associates

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Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

• Typologies Commercial / Office  Headquarters / office 
• Material Wood 
• Date 2009 - 2012
• City Tokyo 
• Country Japan 
• Photographer Edmund Sumner 

Located across across from the Kamiari-mon Gate of the old Buddhist temple of Sens?-ji, in the busy neighborhood of Asakusa in Tokyo, the cultural and tourist information center piles up small volumes of sloping roofs, generating a non-conventional layered architecture. Each space is designed and conceived in section. In this way, every level has a single and specific space adapted to its particular function. Furthermore, the sloping roofs of the building and the floor-to-ceiling height varies from one level to another, so each floor is related in a different manner with the outdoors, giving a unique character to each area. The interstitial spaces between the stacked volumes accommodate the mechanical installations and climate control systems.

The lobby of access is located between the first and second floor, from which the diagonal circulation of the center can be perceived. On the sixth floor, the slanted roof generates a terraced space that can function as theater or conference room. To give the tower a unified image, the building is wrapped in a skin of cedar wood slats placed at different intervals depending on the lighting and privacy needs of the interior spaces, evoking traditional construction in Japan. 

Cliente Client

Arquitecto Architect

Kengo Kuma & Associates

Colaboradores Collaborators

Makino Structural design (estructuras structural engineering ); Kankyo Engineering inc. (electricidad electrical engineering ); Kankyo Engineering inc. (ingeniería mecánica mechanical engineering ); Izumi Okayasu Lighting design (iluminación lighting ); Ando Yoko Design (fachada curtain design ); Tokyo Pistol (cartelería  sign design )

Contratista  Contractor

Fotos Photos

Edmund Sumner; Takeshi Yamagishi

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The Asakusa Cultural and Tourism Center designed by Kengo Kuma

Kengo Kuma is probably one of the few contemporary Japanese architects that expressly pursue Japanese-ness in his/her works. He often uses natural materials such as wood in the spirit of traditional Japanese architecture, which knew how to turn seemingly unfavorable qualities of natural materials such as subtlety, delicacy, or weakness into beauty such as softness, transparency or flexibility/editability.

It that sense, it was fitting that he designed the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, which is located right in front of the Senso-ji and Nakamise Shopping Street, one of Tokyo’s most touristic areas for its  Edo-era (1603-1868) architecture, heritages and atmosphere. 

Before modernization, Tokyo was called Edo, and Edo was one of the largest cities by 1800 even without the Industrial Revolution. As properties were very high in demand, ordinary people lived in “nagaya (long house),” single-story wooden, narrow multiplexes divided into small units in order to accommodate many families in one building. Rows and rows of nagaya filled narrow streets after streets, creating lively communities that fostered vibrant culture of people. Ukyo-e, one of the most popular Edo cultures, vividly captured people’s lives back then.  

Kuma thought about nagaya when he designed Asakusa Tourism Center because it was what made people’s Edo, which is at the heart of Asakusa heritage. But as the center had be built on a small piece of land, he chose to stack single-story Edo-style houses on top of each other.

Each floor represents a wooden house with a unique shape. And as each roof is slanted and have deep eaves as traditional Japanese houses, stacking of them created asymmetric triangular voids between floors. Kuma installed/stored equipment using those spaces. “We are too used to the idea that the floors have to be flat, but I hope I was able to inspire people to re-think the relationships of buildings and floors,” Kuma says.

A nagaya-inspired building must leverage wood, you’d almost think. But wood hasn’t been a to-go material, especially for exteriors, in modern construction due to the fire code – as a matter of fact, Edo had been notorious as a city prone to fire as it was full of wooden buildings. But as Kuma was demined to use wood not only for the interior but also the exterior, he processed it to enhance fire resistance. “Thanks to the emerging technology, you can cover the exterior of a building that is as high as 40 meters,” Kuma says. He chose Japanese cedar, which is the most commonly used wood species in Japan today. 

You can enjoy coffee or beer at the cafe at the top of the building. See the Senso-ji and Nakamise street outside the window?  

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kengo kuma: asakusa culture tourist information center

the overall architectural scheme has been developed in a way that each of the floors from the exterior is defined by varying roofs which extend from the center of the building, as if multiple volumes – 8 one-storied houses – have been piled on top of one another. the diagonally shaped spaces born between the ceiling and the ground of the level above, act as storage space for various equipment, and also secures large air volume despite its overall height for high and medium-rise buildings. these not only divide the establishment, but determine the various programs housed within.

the first and second floor has an atrium and in-door stairs, creating a sequence from which you can feel the sloping of the two storeys. the 6th takes advantage of its slanted roof, whereby a terraced plane allows the entire room to function as a theater. as the angles of the roofs incline towards kaminari-mon, with the heights from the ground varying between the stacked volumes, they all relate differently to the outside, giving a unique character to each space.

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