Atago Green Hills

César Pelli · Atago · 2002

Atago Green Hills
Editor's Pick

The lotus flower tower that blooms amidst Tokyo's historical heart.

Building in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.

Major PracticeEditor's Pick
Architect
César Pelli
Year
2002
Location
Atago, Japan
Coordinates
35.6621°, 139.7489°
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Visitor Guide

Visitor Tip

Visit the adjacent Seishoji Temple first; the tower's 'blooming' profile was specifically designed to mirror the temple's lotus symbolism.

Best Photo Spot

From the temple courtyard, where you can frame the ancient wooden gate against the curved, metallic facade of the tower.

Access & Hours

The towers (Mori Tower and Forest Tower) are primarily offices and residences; the lobby and temple grounds are public.

Insider Note

Pelli used a 'blooming' profile not just for aesthetics, but to minimize wind resistance at high altitudes, a constant Tokyo challenge.

Time Needed

1 hour

Design & Structure

FreeformDouble-CurvedShell Structure
Computational Process

Modeled using wind-tunnel simulations and parametric optimization to ensure the curved profile remained structurally efficient.

Materiality

Aluminum cladding and high-performance glass; the color palette was chosen to complement the temple's wood and stone.

Structural Innovation

The towers utilize a core-and-shell system where the exterior curvature is managed through variable-length steel beams.

See Together

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Atago Green Hills?+

Atago Green Hills was designed by César Pelli and completed in 2002. It is located in Atago, Japan.

Where is Atago Green Hills located?+

Atago Green Hills is located in Atago, Japan. Its coordinates are 35.6621°, 139.7489°.

When was Atago Green Hills built?+

Atago Green Hills was completed in 2002. It was designed by César Pelli.

Can I visit Atago Green Hills?+

Atago Green Hills is a real building in Atago that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.