Nakagin Capsule Tower
Ginza, Japan
No longer standing
Demolished or destroyed.
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The Nakagin Capsule Tower was a mixed-use residential and office tower designed by Kisho Kurokawa and completed in 1970–1972 in Tokyo's Ginza district. A landmark of Japanese Metabolism—the postwar architectural movement celebrating organic growth and impermanence—it was the world's first example of capsule architecture, featuring prefabricated modular units. Despite its historical significance, the building deteriorated over time, and preservation efforts proved unsuccessful. The tower was demolished in 2022, though 23 of its component capsules were salvaged and repurposed elsewhere.
Architect
Movement
- Built
- Type
- tower block, condominium, former building or structure
- Place
- Ginza, Japan
This building on
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Location