Tokyotecture
Check local COVID-19 restrictions before booking
Experience hosted by Mike
3 hours
Includes equipment
Up to 7 people
Hosted in English
What you'll do
Let's get into the design details of 8-10 of my favorite examples of architecture by Japan's top architects. We'll see (new) buildings by almost every internationally recognized architect in Japan. It's such a rare case to have a high density of examples from the most heralded architects in one area. We'll also look at more examples of buildings to give you a sense of each architect's design.
We'll go on top of rooftops, around corners, and through the small streets of Aoyama. We'll talk about design of the buildings, and their place in the city through the lens of a few themes. I'll show you connections between Japanese culture and urban design. I also make connections between my own worldview, transformed by Japan, and the city.
Other things to note
Wear walking shoes. Use my directions to find the meeting point. The map is not as accurate sometimes.
We'll go on top of rooftops, around corners, and through the small streets of Aoyama. We'll talk about design of the buildings, and their place in the city through the lens of a few themes. I'll show you connections between Japanese culture and urban design. I also make connections between my own worldview, transformed by Japan, and the city.
Other things to note
Wear walking shoes. Use my directions to find the meeting point. The map is not as accurate sometimes.
Let's get into the design details of 8-10 of my favorite examples of architecture by Japan's top architects. We'll see (new) buildings by almost every internationally recognized architect in Japan. It's such a rare case to have a high density of examples from the most heralded architects in one area. We'll also look at more examples of buildings to give you a sense of each architect's design.
We'll go on top of rooftops, around corners…
We'll go on top of rooftops, around corners…
Mike's commitment to safety
This host committed to Airbnb’s COVID-19-related safety and cleaning guidelines—including adhering to social distancing guidelines, practicing good hygiene, and ensuring that all participants wear a mask.
What's included
- Equipment2 Professional quality photos of your group taken and edited by me.
- 679 Reviews
- Identity verified
I have a Master's degree in Urban Design from Georgia Institute of Technology, and I studied Japanese cities and architecture through a framework of Ecological Urbanism. I consider Japanese architecture the best in the world right now. I love the city and nature—two major aspects of Japanese design.
Where you'll be
Meet at the Nike Store in Harajuku. We'll start in Harajuku, a gathering place for the fashionably young, and wind our way through Aoyama, one of Tokyo's fashion and design hubs. Taking major streets and small alleyways alike, we'll end in Minami Aoyama near Omotesando station
Rated 4.80 out of 5 from 679 reviews.
Enjoyed the tour with Mike. He has studied the topic and can answer most of the questions. It was interesting hearing about his perspective as well.
Content wise it felt more like 2 hours, since there is walking involved.
Even though I have been to Tokyo several times, it was still useful to get context behind some of the really magnificent buildings.
Thanks Mike and wishing you all the best!
Enjoyed the tour with Mike. He has studied the topic and can answer most of the questions. It was interesting hearing about his perspective as well.
Content wise it felt more like…
This tour was incredibly nice!! I am interested in architecture but didn’t have much knowledge about it before I took this tour. However, after this activity and Mike’s explanation, I’ve got much information and more interest in architecture. Thanks Mike for the wonderful tour. I definitely recommend this tour!!
This tour was incredibly nice!! I am interested in architecture but didn’t have much knowledge about it before I took this tour. However, after this activity and Mike’s explanation…
This experience was amazing, very private. Mike knew details of the city and nice spots he showed us. He talked about architects and their work, he was so passionate about the buildings that make me fall in love with Japanese Architecture if I wasn’t already. This is a must do for every architect out there. Thanks Mike!!
This experience was amazing, very private. Mike knew details of the city and nice spots he showed us. He talked about architects and their work, he was so passionate about the buil…
For an ex-architect, the tour is a great way to view beautiful architecture around Harajukyu and Omotesando within a few hours. Its story telling aspects could however be improved upon to deliver a better experience to match its premium pricing and detailed feedback has been provided for the operator's consideration.
For an ex-architect, the tour is a great way to view beautiful architecture around Harajukyu and Omotesando within a few hours. Its story telling aspects could however be improved…
Mike met with us at the Nike store and it was easy to find his starting location. We enjoyed the tour, and what we loved was getting into the back streets of Tokyo in lovely little neighbourhoods we would never have found by ourselves. He showed us mainly modern architecture and buildings. If it is raining, definitely bring an umbrella.
Mike met with us at the Nike store and it was easy to find his starting location. We enjoyed the tour, and what we loved was getting into the back streets of Tokyo in lovely lit…
Things to know
Cancellation policy
Any experience can be canceled and fully refunded within 24 hours of purchase, or at least 7 days before the experience starts.
Guest requirements
Up to 7 guests ages 12 and up can attend.
What to bring
Walking shoes