Yoyogi National Gymnasium, Multi-purpose hall in Jinnan, Tokyo, Japan
Yoyogi National Gymnasium is a multi-purpose hall in Jinnan, Shibuya ward of Tokyo, used for sporting events, concerts and other large gatherings. The hall is characterized by its suspended steel roof supported by cables, creating a column-free interior with clear sightlines from all seats.
Architect Kenzo Tange designed the complex for the 1964 Summer Olympics, where it hosted swimming and diving competitions. After the Games it was converted into a multi-purpose venue and has since served as a location for national championships and international tournaments.
The hall takes its name from the nearby Yoyogi Park and reflects the central role sport plays in daily Japanese life. Today national teams come here to train and compete, with basketball and ice hockey drawing young fans and school groups.
Access is direct from Harajuku Station on the Yamanote Line, from where the hall is a few minutes' walk. For events with audiences, seating and standing areas are available, with the arrangement changing depending on the type of event.
The roof construction uses tensioned steel cables as load-bearing elements, a then novel technique that was later applied in other sports facilities worldwide. Under the roof the hall can completely change its interior layout, from ice rink to concert stage without fixed installations.
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