Moriyama City Hall by Kengo Kuma and Associates

In Moriyama City, which once prospered as a post town along the Nakasendo Highway, we designed a government office building that is open and connected to the city like a former highway.

The L-shaped lobby is placed in continuity with several roads leading to the government office building and is designed to avoid the existing government office building which is still in operation.

Photo © Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji

Along the lobby there are large eaves, a plaza, café, a civic hall, and various reception desks to welcome citizens and provide a place for public activities.

Walking around the lobby will exhibit a lively atmosphere where civic activities and administrative functions are integrated.

Photo © Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji

Inside the building local timber is actively used and the eaves and balconies are wrapped with varying delicate wood louvers to create a warm and welcoming government building.

Fitting to Moriyama’s rich natural environment. Source by Kengo Kuma and Associates,

Photo © Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji

Location: Sigha, Japan

Archietct: Kengo Kuma and Associates

Design Team: Kenji Miyahara, Masaru Shuku, Yusuke Kanemoto, Kyoko Mase, Yoo Shiho, Kimio Suzuki

Joint Design: Yasui Architects & Engineers

Cooperation: Takenaka Corporation, Yasui Architects & Engineers

Construction: Takenaka Corporation

Area: 13, 092 m2

Year: 2025

Photographs: Kawasumi-Kobayashi Kenji, Courtesy of Kengo Kuma and Associates