Aquapolis, Marine park building in Motobu, Japan
Aquapolis was a semi-submerged floating structure that rose about 32 meters above the water surface with a forward-looking design. The building occupied approximately 10,400 square meters and was an experimental marine architecture designed by architect Kikutake Kiyonori.
The structure opened in 1975 as a floating exhibition and operated for roughly 18 years before closing in 1993. It was part of the Okinawa International Ocean Exposition and showcased Japan's advances in marine technology and experimental building methods.
Aquapolis embodied an ambitious experiment in floating architecture that reflected dreams of a city on water. The structure showed how people might live in a marine future and attracted visitors curious about this forward-thinking concept.
The site is reachable only by water and has been converted into a diving location after its closure. Visitors who want to explore the remains need diving equipment and should be comfortable with underwater conditions.
Renowned manga artist Osamu Tezuka served as producer of this ambitious project, bridging artistic vision with technical innovation. This collaboration between art and engineering made the endeavor a notable chapter in Japan's cultural development.
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