Course 1: Tokyo
WASEDA University Building 37 WASEDA Arena
WASEDA University Building 37 WASEDA Arena is a state-of-the-art facility on campus, completed in recent years to host sports events and large gatherings. The design emphasizes energy efficiency and a strong connection to the surrounding green spaces. Innovative features such as natural lighting and climate-responsive systems support its ZEB Ready status. This building marks a new benchmark in sustainable and multifunctional university architecture.
Nikken Sekkei Tokyo Office
The Nikken Sekkei Tokyo Building has been renovated from the 1st to the 4th floors to serve as an experimental space for addressing issues such as open platforms, carbon neutrality, and diversity. The previous structure has been redesigned so that the 2nd and 3rd floors are connected by stairs, which lead external collaborators to the collaborative space on the 3rd floor.
Nihon Sekkei Headquarters, Toranomon Hills Mori Tower
The headquarters of NIHON SEKKEI was established as both a continuation of the founding spirit and a new challenge as a comprehensive design firm. Located on the 34th and 35th floors of the Toranomon Hills Mori Tower, the office features a distinctive two-story circular layout with panoramic views. By staying closely connected to the present of the city, we express our ongoing commitment to generating future value through architecture, urban design, and environmental planning.
*For details of Site Visits, please refer to the Official Website .
Course 2: Yokohama, Kanagawa
Kajima Technical Center
This facility serves as a training center for construction management techniques by the top general contractor in Japan, featuring structural mock-ups for training, among others. It has obtained ZEB Ready certification for environmental performance and works on enhancing wellness in training. The facility uses timber from company-owned forests for interior design and seismic walls. Additionally, it partially utilizes eco-concrete and adopts various greening technologies.
Obayashi Corporation Port Plus
Obayashi Corporation’s Port Plus is Japan’s first high-rise built entirely of engineered timber. Completed in 2022, the structure employs innovative fire-resistant connections and sustainable materials to reduce carbon emissions. Its warm, natural interior and modern design demonstrate the potential of mass timber construction for urban environments. This award-winning building is a benchmark for eco-friendly, high-performance architecture.
Note: An additional building will be visited in Course 2. Details will be announced on this page once finalized.
*For details of Site Visits, please refer to the Official Website .
Course 3: Tsukuba, Ibaraki
Sumitomo Forestry Tsukuba Research Institute
Sumitomo Forestry's Tsukuba Research Institute is a cutting-edge center for wood-based construction innovation. Its new three-story timber building showcases advanced timber engineering techniques and sustainable design practices. The institute develops eco-friendly building methods that enhance structural performance while reducing carbon emissions and conducts extensive R&D related to forests and wood. It plays a key role in shaping a future where timber-centric, low-carbon construction becomes the norm.
Sekisui House’s Eco First Park Resource Recycling Center
This Center promotes a circular economy in housing construction. Waste is sorted into 27 categories on construction site, then into 60-80 categories at the center. These wastes are managed by strict rules and recycled. The center is designed for recycling processes, and visitors can see advanced systems that reduce environmental impact. This initiative highlights Sekisui House’s commitment to sustainability.
Please note: This tour includes only the Resource Recycling Center within Eco First Park.
*For details of Site Visits, please refer to the Official Website .
Course 4: Tsukuba, Ibaraki
Toda Corporation Tsukuba Technical Research Institute Green Office Building
Toda Corporation’s Green Office Building is an experimental facility designed to achieve net-zero energy and even carbon-minus performance. Utilizing advanced HVAC, LED lighting, renewable energy, and smart systems, it minimizes its environmental footprint while promoting occupant well-being. The design features abundant natural light and open spaces, creating a healthy and efficient work environment. This pioneering project sets new standards for sustainable corporate architecture and innovation.
Building Research Institute – LCCM House and Experimental Facilities
The LCCM Demonstration House at the Building Research Institute is a groundbreaking prototype aimed at achieving “Life Cycle Carbon Minus” status. Built in 2011, it features ultra-efficient insulation, renewable energy systems, and innovative green technologies that produce surplus energy over its lifespan. Its design minimizes emissions from construction through operation, setting a new benchmark for sustainable residential architecture. This experimental facility offers valuable insights into future eco-friendly housing and climate-responsive design.
*For details of Site Visits, please refer to the Official Website .