Japan boasts a stunning collection of modern and contemporary buildings, brought to life by legendary architects whose visionary designs have left an indelible mark both locally and globally. These trailblazers form the backbone of Japan’s architectural identity, celebrated for their unique approaches to form, functionality, and the harmonious interplay of light, space, and materials. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia highlights the top ten legendary living Japanese architects whose contributions have redefined the world of architecture, embodying the very essence of artistic and structural brilliance.
Tadao Ando
Tadao Ando, a former professional boxer turned self-taught architect, is one of Japan’s most prominent figures in contemporary architecture. Renowned for his minimalist concrete structures, Ando’s work is defined by exposed concrete, pure geometric forms and a deep harmony with natural elements like light, wind and water. His unique aesthetic has earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Pritzker Prize in 1995. Among his major works are the Church of the Light, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation and the Chichu Art Museum.
Toyo Ito
Toyo Ito, born in 1941 in Seoul, is a visionary architect known for blending sensory experience with functionality, reshaping the essence of space and form. His works like the Sendai Mediatheque and Tower of Winds challenge conventional norms, seamlessly integrating technology, nature and urban landscapes. Winner of the 2013 Pritzker Prize, Ito also champions socially responsible architecture through initiatives like “Home-for-All.” His iconic designs, including the Kaohsiung National Stadium, reflect a timeless philosophy of harmony between humanity, structure and environment.
Shigeru Ban
Shigeru Ban, an acclaimed contemporary architect and the 2014 Pritzker Prize laureate, is renowned for his innovative use of sustainable materials like cardboard, wood and bamboo in his works. His work blends cutting-edge design with humanitarian efforts, creating cost-effective and adaptable shelters for disaster-stricken regions worldwide. Ban’s iconic projects, such as the Cardboard Cathedral in New Zealand and Paper Log Houses in Japan, reflect his philosophy of serving the vulnerable while championing eco-friendly architecture that balances utility, resilience and aesthetic excellence.
Riken Yamamoto
Riken Yamamoto, the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Laureate, is renowned for his community-centric architectural approach, which prioritises the seamless integration of communal and personal spaces. Yamamoto believes architecture should foster connections with the broader environment, transcending individual occupation to engage with the community. His notable works include the Yokosuka Museum of Art, Nagoya Zokei University, and Saitama Prefectural University. Through his designs, Yamamoto champions architecture that enhances social cohesion and strengthens the relationship between space and society.
Sou Fujimoto
Sou Fujimoto’s architectural philosophy revolves around the seamless integration of nature and structure. Growing up in the natural beauty of Hokkaido, Japan, his designs reflect this deep connection. Fujimoto is renowned for incorporating organic elements into his projects. His House Na exemplifies this with its transparent facade and layered design, evoking the feeling of living within a tree. As one of Japan’s most celebrated young architects, Fujimoto continues to create innovative spaces that harmonise with their surroundings.
Kengo Kuma
Named one of Time’s Most Influential People of 2021, Kengo Kuma is currently one of architecture’s hottest commodity. A celebrated contemporary architect and writer, Kuma is known for his innovative designs and thought-provoking works on architecture. Kuma champions the concept of “losing architecture,” creating structures that blend harmoniously with their surroundings. Like a sushi master selecting the finest local ingredients, Kuma emphasises using the best, in-season materials. This philosophy shines throughout his designs, especially in his design of the Japan National Stadium where there is a clear deference to history and the environment.
Hara Hiroshi
Widely regarded as one of Japan’s finest architects, Hara Hiroshi is celebrated for his bold and transformative creations. His iconic works include Kyoto Station, Osaka’s Umeda Sky Building, Tokyo’s Yamato International and Hokkaido’s Sapporo Dome, many of which have received prestigious awards. Blending mathematics, philosophy and art, Hara’s innovative approach has significantly shaped Japan’s contemporary architecture. Often hailed as an architect-polymath, he continues to craft imaginative spaces that inspire and elevate Japan’s architectural landscape.
Terunobu Fujimori
Terunobu Fujimori is a Japanese architect and historian celebrated for his whimsical, nature-inspired designs and his innovative use of materials like charred wood. Born in Nagano, he studied at Tōhoku University and later at the University of Tokyo, where he became a professor. Fujimori’s works, including the Jinchōkan Moriya Museum and unique teahouses, challenge conventions by blending humour, tradition and experimental techniques. As a cultural commentator and author, he gained international recognition at the 2006 Venice Biennale, solidifying his place as a visionary in the architectural world.
Satoshi Kurosaki
Born in Ishikawa Prefecture in 1970 and a graduate of Meiji University’s Department of Architecture, Satoshi Kurosaki is the founder of Apollo Architects & Associates, a renowned Tokyo-based firm specialising in private residences, villas, resort hotels and brand design. Kurosaki has represented Japan as a judge in the prestigious Archiproducts Design Awards for seven consecutive years, gaining international recognition. An accomplished author, his notable works include APOLLO TIMELESS and two volumes on Apollo’s architecture, showcasing his creative philosophy and contributions to modern Japanese and global architecture.
Oki Sato
Oki Sato, founder of Tokyo-based design studio Nendo, is a respected architect and designer renowned for his playful yet functional minimalism. Influenced by his Japanese and Canadian roots, Sato blends humour and warmth into his designs, avoiding the sterility often associated with minimalism. Since Nendo’s inception in 2002, he has undertaken over 400 projects, ranging from furniture to architecture, emphasising simplicity and accessibility. Sato’s work, inspired by Japanese aesthetics and childhood memories, embodies creativity, imperfection and a profound connection with everyday life.
