The Excess and Excesses of Japan's Bubble Era: A Look at the Flamboyant Architecture of the 1980s

Japan’s bubble era, also known as the “economic bubble,” occurred in the 1980s and was characterized by a rapid increase in real estate and stock prices. During this time, a number of extravagant and over-the-top buildings were constructed, many of which were designed in a futuristic or unconventional style. These buildings, known as bubble era architecture, became symbols of Japan’s economic prosperity and were often used as landmarks or tourist attractions. Some famous examples of bubble era architecture include the Round One Stadium in Osaka and the Yokohama Landmark Tower. Although the bubble eventually burst, these unique and eye-catching buildings continue to be a part of Japan’s architectural landscape.

Shin Takamatsu is a Japanese architect known for his use of innovative materials and futuristic designs. He was born in Osaka in 1948 and studied architecture at Kansai University. After graduating, he worked for a number of notable architectural firms before establishing his own practice in 1979. Takamatsu gained widespread recognition during Japan’s bubble era in the 1980s, when he designed a number of extravagant and unconventional buildings, including the Round One Stadium in Osaka and the Yokohama Landmark Tower. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, and continues to be an influential figure in the world of architecture.

Makoto Sei Watanabe is a Japanese architect known for his use of natural materials and incorporation of traditional Japanese design elements in his work. He was born in 1952 and graduated from the Department of Architecture at Kyoto University in 1975. Watanabe has designed a number of notable buildings in Japan and abroad, including the Hakone Open-Air Museum and the Kyoto State Guest House. He has received numerous awards for his work, including the Architectural Institute of Japan’s Annual Award in 1993 and the Japan Art Academy Prize in 2003. In addition to his architectural practice, Watanabe is also a professor at Kyoto University and has written several books on architecture and design.

Building Name: Imanishi Motoakasaka
Completed: 1991
Architect: Shin Takamatsu
Location: Minato City, Tokyo

Building Name: Octagon
Completed: 1991
Architect: Shin Takamatsu
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo

Building Name: Aoyama Technical College
Completed: 1990
Architect: Makoto Sei Watanabe
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo

Building Name: Aoyama Technical College
Completed: 1990
Architect: Makoto Sei Watanabe
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo

Building Name: Udagawacho Police Box
Completed: 1985
Architect: Edward Suzuki
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo

Building Name: Cinema Rise
Completed: 1986
Architect: Atsushi Kitagawara
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo