Guida
The Kagawa Prefectural Government Office is an administrative complex located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. Beyond its role as a government hub, it is recognized globally for its immense architectural significance. The East Building, designed by the legendary architect Kenzo Tange, is a masterpiece that expresses traditional Japanese aesthetics through modern architectural techniques and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. This complex, consisting of the Main Building, East Building, North Building, and the Assembly Hall, stands as a symbol of history and culture in the center of Takamatsu.
The history of this office is essential to the story of post-war Japanese architecture. The design of the East Building began when the then-Governor Masanori Kaneko, introduced by the Western-style painter Genichiro Inokuma, commissioned Kenzo Tange. Tange integrated the principles of modern architecture—inspired by Le Corbusier—with Japanese traditional aesthetics. The facade of the East Building utilizes a delicate expression of traditional 'beams' (hari), pushing the technical limits of the era to embody both the beauty of public architecture and the spirit of democracy. In 2022, its profound cultural value was officially recognized with its designation as a National Important Cultural Property.
There are several ways to experience art and architecture here. First, the structure of the East Building itself is a marvel. The beautiful facade with traditional beam expressions, the open-air pilotis, and the sophisticated lobby space represent the pinnacle of Tange's architectural style. Additionally, the lobby features the mural 'Wakei Seijaku' (Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquility) by the famous artist Genichiro Inokuma, making the building itself a work of art. Furthermore, the 21st floor of the Main Building houses an observatory offering a 360-degree view of Takamatsu City. You can also see exhibits such as models of the government office and Sanukite (Sanuki stone), a local specialty, providing a deeper understanding of the region.
It is best to visit during daylight hours when the office is open. Visiting during the day allows you to fully appreciate the play of light through the pilotis, the intricate details of the East Building's facade, and the vibrant colors of the lobby mural. The 21st-floor observatory offers varying views of Takamatsu depending on the weather; on clear days, you can enjoy a breathtaking, wide-reaching panorama of the city and surrounding landscape.
Visitors can experience the seamless fusion of architecture and art. You can admire the mural by Genichiro Inokuma in the East Building lobby or observe the exquisite designs by Isamu Kenmochi, who worked on the furniture. The observatory on the 21st floor provides a high-angle perspective of the city, helping visitors understand the geographical layout of the region. It is a unique space where you can walk through a functional administrative center that also serves as a cultural heritage site.
The Kagawa Prefectural Government Office is centrally located in Takamatsu. To the north is the Kagawa Red Cross Hospital, and to the south is the Kagawa University Takamatsu Elementary School. The area is highly accessible, within walking distance of Kotoden Wakamachi Station and JR Takamatsu Station. With many commercial facilities and restaurants nearby, it is a convenient stop for both administrative business and sightseeing.
While certain areas are open to the public, please maintain decorum as this is an active government facility. There are no specific dress codes, but respectful behavior is appreciated. Since the building contains precious architectural structures and art, please be mindful of photography rules. Payments for nearby parking or certain facilities can be made via cash or credit card. While some signage is available in English, most services and information are primarily provided in Japanese.