The Nakagin Capsule Tower | Visiting Tokyo’s Metabolism Architecture

Tokyo is no stranger to some of the most interesting architecture in the world. The Nakagin Capsule Tower is off the typical tourist path and is perfect for those who love architecture and wish to see something unique. 

Tokyo feels like another world, and much of this is because of its hybrid of architecture. You encounter so many different types of buildings and history, ranging from ancient Edo to modern. The Nakagin Capsule Tower is one of those relics in Tokyo that not only makes for excellent photographs, but it offers a unique travel experience to the curious mind.

Where is The Nakagin Capsule Tower?

You will find this tower located in Ginza (Chuo Ward), right in the old Tsukiji neighborhood. Take the train to Shimbashi Station or Tsukijoshijo Station, or any of the closer stations around the area.

Japanese Metabolism & The Nagakin Capsule Tower

The Nakagin Capsule Tower, or Nakagin Kapusero Tawa in Japanese, was built in 1972 by an architect named Kisho Kurokawa. It’s one of the most interesting pieces of architecture in Tokyo and one of the few pieces of Metabolism remaining. Aside from the architecture, a fascinating thing about this tower is the fact that it was built in just 30 days. The concrete capsules were designed for both residential use and office space.

Metabolism (shinchuntaisha) was a post-war Japanese architectural movement that fused ideas about architectural megastructures with those of organic biological growth.

How to See the Nakagin Capsule Tower

You can actually book a tour of the capsule tower via Viator. I recommend booking in advance and not waiting until the last minute, especially during popular travel seasons.

What Else to See?

The Tower is in the Ginza neighborhood, so there are plenty of options. Check out the articles below, but if you want loads of in-depth coverage, get my book Hidden Tokyo on Amazon. You won’t regret it.