Akita City Central Library Meitokukan

The Akita City Central Library Meitokukan is a municipal library in Senshū Park with multiple levels offering reading rooms, study areas, and broad collections of books and digital materials. The spaces are organized to support both individual study and group work.

The library opened on October 3, 1983, under architect Yoshio Taniguchi's direction. He combined contemporary design with elements of traditional Japanese architecture.

The building gained recognition as one of Japan's 100 Best Public Buildings for its design that draws on local construction traditions. Visitors can see these regional influences in the choice of materials and how the structure sits within the park's environment.

The collections are available for both individual study and group work, with separate areas for different activities. Plan to visit during the day to appreciate how natural light plays across the building's exterior.

The building's surfaces shift in appearance throughout the day as natural light hits the selected materials. This continuous visual transformation gives each visit a different quality of experience.

Location: Akita

Inception: October 3, 1983

Architects: Yoshio Taniguchi

Official opening: October 3, 1983

Part of: Akita City Library, 100 Best Public Buildings in Japan

Address: 秋田県秋田市千秋明徳町4-4

Website: http://city.akita.akita.jp/city/ed/mt/default.htm

GPS coordinates: 39.71975,140.12351

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:01