Tokyo International Forum, Cultural center in Marunouchi, Japan
Tokyo International Forum is a cultural center in the Marunouchi district consisting of a 228-meter (748 feet) glass hall and four rectangular buildings containing event spaces. The glass structure is supported by an exposed steel framework, while the adjoining buildings house different halls and rooms for performances and gatherings.
Construction began in 1992 following an international competition won by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly. The center opened in 1997 on the site of a former government building.
The complex takes its name from the original competition brief calling for an open forum for international exchange. Today business people gather for conferences while visitors cross through the public areas or attend events.
Access is through underground passages from Yurakucho Station and Tokyo Station, both within a few minutes' walk. The public areas of the glass hall can be entered freely, while events in the auditoriums typically require tickets.
The glass hall is illuminated from within at night and appears from street level like a floating boat. On sunny days the steel beams cast shadow patterns on the floor that shift throughout the day.
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