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

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Visitor Tip

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

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Best Photo Spot

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

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Access & Hours

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

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Insider Note

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

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Time Needed

1 hour

Design & Structure

FreeformDouble-CurvedShell Structure
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Computational Process

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

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Materiality

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

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Structural Innovation

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

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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.