A Rainy Day in Yurakucho, An Unexpected Encounter with Colossal Art
Hello, this is CityNomix from Photomo. While usually immersed in the hustle and bustle of digital marketing, I spend my weekends and spare moments exploring cities both domestic and international, unearthing local culture. This time, I’ll delve into the allure of the Tokyo International Forum, a colossal structure in Yurakucho, Tokyo, that feels like a set from a sci-fi movie.
It was Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, around 4 PM. I was in Yurakucho for an errand at Bic Camera. After finishing my business, as I walked through the underground passage to head home, an案内 sign for the Tokyo International Forum caught my eye. As if drawn by an unseen force, I found myself heading in its direction. Unfortunately, it was raining outside, but I had no idea at the time that this would make today’s discovery even more special.
The Wet Floor’s Ephemeral Brilliance
Ascending to the first floor via an escalator, I found the rain still falling. The Glass Hall Plaza, a glass-covered walkway connecting to the opposite building, presented a unique visage işte on this rainy day.
The wet floor surface reflected the surrounding scenery like a mirror, shimmering beautifully. The trees lining the walkway, washed क्लीन by the rain, appeared even more vibrant, creating a serene space that made me forget the city’s clamor. This area, which hosts food trucks during weekday lunchtimes and lively markets on weekends, is said to be occasionally visited by fashion designer Nigel Cabourn when he’s in Japan – a testament to its captivating atmosphere.
Breathtaking Scale: Inside the Glass Hall
The Glass Hall, a ship-shaped, glass-walled building on the JR Line side, is arguably where the true essence of Tokyo International Forum architecture lies. Stepping inside, anyone would be Awed by its sheer size and openness. It is, quite literally, a “colossal art” piece.
I had known about this building for some time, but I’d never ventured up to the glass bridges (connecting walkways) above. “Could I perhaps go up?” I wondered. With a glimmer of hope, I asked the receptionist, who delightfully informed me, “It’s open today, so anyone can take the elevator to the 7th floor.” Suppressing my excitement, I decided to first go down to the basement to find the elevator.
The Awe-Inspiring Atrium from Below
On my way to the elevator hall, I looked up at the Glass Hall’s atrium from the first basement floor. The view from here was also spectacular.
The sight of multi-layered bridges and natural light pouring in from high above created a scene reminiscent of a futuristic city. The very existence of such a dynamic space in the heart of Tokyo is incredibly surprising. At this point, my anticipation was at its peak.
To the Sky Corridor: The Glass Hall Bridge
I took the elevator to the 5th floor. The moment the doors opened, an extraordinary scene unfolded before me. It seems this place has become something of a Tokyo hidden photo spot, as a couple was joyfully taking pictures.
The Immense Ceiling and a Futuristic Cityscape
First, I looked up at the ceiling.
Image shows a massive steel frame, reminiscent of a ship’s hull, curving and extending as if towards the sky. “It’s huge…” I muttered, awestruck by the scale. It reaffirmed my realization that this place is indeed a colossal art installation.
Like a Titan’s Ribcage? Unique Structural Beauty
Then, I finally crossed the bridge. It’s a glass tube, approximately 57 meters long, designed to appear as if it’s floating in mid-air.
Looking at the image, you can perhaps grasp its immense scale and intriguing structure. Gazing down from the bridge, I felt a peculiar sensation, as if I were inside a giant creature. “It’s like the ribs of a Titan from Attack on Titan… Where’s Eren? Mikasa?” I mused, adding my own (attempted) witty commentary. But no, this is Tokyo, the International Forum.
Diverse Perspectives from the Bridge
Standing at the edge of the bridge and looking down, the people on the ground appeared incredibly small.
The image offers a side view from the bridge. The intricate beauty of the steel framework and the contrast with the Marunouchi and Yurakucho buildings seen through the glass are captivating. Furthermore, as shown in IMG_2896.jpeg, viewing another bridge is also fascinating. The solidly built bridge of steel and concrete, when viewed from a low angle, emphasizes its robustness and gives a powerful impression.
Moreover, from the upper floors, the harmony of the lush green trees spreading below and the distant city skyline is magnificent. This view is certainly one of the Tokyo International Forum highlights.
The Entire Building as Art: A Sensory Experience
The Tokyo International Forum was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly. Since its opening in 1997, it has captivated countless people with its innovative design and overwhelming scale. It truly stands as a prominent example of Tokyo art spots architecture.
There aren’t many places where the building itself offers such a potent art experience without needing to step into a museum. Whenever I’m in Yurakucho, I find myself inexplicably drawn to revisit this space. That’s what the Tokyo International Forum is to me.
Convenient Access and Nearby Attractions
Satisfied with my art experience, I returned to the first floor and browsed some of the surrounding shops. Familiar names like Shake Shack, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, and PLAZA were still there, which was somewhat comforting.
The PLAZA sign illuminated on a rainy evening also has a certain charm.
Stay Dry on a Rainy Day: Direct Underground Access from Yurakucho Station
Above all, the access is incredibly convenient. This is especially beneficial for Yurakucho rainy day sightseeing.
It’s directly connected by an underground passage from JR Yurakucho Station and the Yurakucho Line’s Yurakucho Station ticket gates, allowing access without getting wet. It also connects to Bic Camera Yurakucho, making it convenient to stop by while shopping. The surrounding area is well-equipped with a large FamilyMart and various restaurants. Furthermore, this is a major hub hosting a variety of Tokyo International Forum access events, including conferences, exhibitions, and concerts by popular artists, with facilities ranging from Hall A to E.
【CityNomix’s Tip】Affordable Parking You Should Know About
Lastly, here’s a little helpful tip from me, CityNomix. The parking at the Tokyo International Forum is actually very reasonably priced for this area. For a standard car, it’s 200 yen for 30 minutes, with a weekday maximum of 2000 yen (as of June 2025). It has a large capacity and, being underground, it’s convenient regardless of the weather. If you’re visiting by car, it’s worth remembering.
Conclusion: A Tokyo Architectural Heritage That Transcends the Everyday
This time, I shared my experience of the architectural beauty of the Tokyo International Forum, which I happened upon on a rainy day in Yurakucho. It’s not just an event facility; it’s a living art space that offers new discoveries and inspiration with each visit. The view from the observation bridge is something you should experience at least once.
I hope this article inspires your next Tokyo stroll. Photomo will continue to deliver information based on CityNomix’s real-life experiences, stimulating your intellectual curiosity and encouraging your next adventure. Until we meet again on another city street.
Official Website: Tokyo International Forum
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