Fukuoka Tower, Television tower with observation deck in Seaside Momochi, Japan
Fukuoka Tower is a television tower with observation deck in Seaside Momochi, Japan, rising to 234 meters (768 feet) and clad in a facade of more than 8,000 half-mirrors. The triangular shape of the building forms a slender profile over Hakata Bay, with the mirrored surfaces reflecting light differently depending on the time of day.
The inauguration took place in March 1989 to celebrate the city's centennial, when Fukuoka wanted to create a large space for international events. The structure simultaneously became the symbol of the Asia Pacific Exposition, which took place along the coast that year.
The nickname "Mirror Sail" was chosen by public competition, evoking a shining mirror sail heading into the 21st century. The mascot Futa-kun, introduced in 2008 for the tower's 20th anniversary, stands 234 cm tall, matching the tower's 234 metres. During Christmas and Tanabata the exterior is lit up, with pictures shown on a board at the top.
Access to the observation deck is through elevators that bring visitors to three different levels within a few minutes. The facility is open daily, except for certain maintenance days in late June, and after sunset the illuminated structure offers a special impression from the outside.
The tower's triangular shaft is clad in 8,000 half-mirrors, and the Fukuoka City emblem sits near the top of the prism. Its outline also echoes the spearhead of the Nihon-go, the spear of the samurai Mori Tahei. The mascot Futa-kun, introduced in 2008, stands 234 cm tall, matching the tower's 234 metres.
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