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The National Diet Building ― The “Strangeness” We’re Too Used to Notice









For Japanese people, the National Diet Building is akin to the White House for Americans. It symbolizes politics, power, and the nation itself, and many have seen it on news programs or in textbooks. Yet, precisely because it is so familiar, people often fail to notice the unique “strangeness” of this building.

A Fusion of Design and Style


Standing tall in Nagatachō, Tokyo, the National Diet Building evokes Western architecture, yet it also seems somewhat cosmopolitan—or even stateless. Its most striking feature is the pyramid-shaped central spire, rather than a dome, giving it a unique silhouette that some say even resembles an Indian temple.

The central tower rises 65 meters, and the symmetrical façade reflects Japan’s bicameral system, with the House of Representatives on the left and the House of Councillors on the right. While influenced by 17th-century European Neo-Baroque architecture, the building also incorporates Japanese motifs throughout. It is not a mere imitation of Western design, but a bold hybrid created as Japan encountered Western culture and interpreted it in its own way.

A Long-Term National Project

During the Meiji era, as Japan rapidly modernized, establishing the Diet and constructing its building became a symbolic national project. The first provisional Diet building, designed by a German architect, was completed in 1890. However, this and its successors were temporary wooden structures, and two of them had to be rebuilt due to fires and other setbacks before a permanent stone building could finally be realized.



The current building emerged from a design competition proposed by Kingo Tatsuno, who also designed Tokyo Station and the Bank of Japan. In 1918, the plans submitted by Fukuzō Watanabe and Kenkichi Yabashi were chosen. Yet the massive budget and unstable global conditions delayed construction. Design negotiations continued for years, incorporating suggestions and revisions from other architects. The building was finally completed in 1936, just a few years before Japan entered war with the United States. In many ways, it embodies both Japan’s hopes and its struggles during modernization.

Commitment to Domestic Materials and Hidden Interior Details

Supervised by government engineers trained in Western architecture yet committed to Japanese aesthetics, the construction prioritized domestic materials. High-quality granite was sourced from across Japan and meticulously carved by stonemasons, while Japanese-style decorations were integrated throughout.

Interestingly, despite this dedication to domestic sourcing, the stained glass windows were imported.

The Unsolved Mystery of the Pyramid Spire


The greatest mystery of the Diet Building is its pyramid-shaped central spire. The original design called for a round dome atop the tower. However, critics argued it was too Western, and some advocated for the “Imperial Crown Style,” which incorporated Japanese castle-like gables and tiled roofs. Ultimately, the spire that was built was neither a dome nor a Japanese-style crown, but a square pyramid.

Upon closer inspection, the tip is covered with terracotta tiles resembling traditional Japanese roof tiles, creating a design unlike any other in the world. Who decided on this shape and why remains unknown, making it the greatest architectural mystery of the National Diet Building.

Discovering Something New as a Visitor

Even after more than 80 years, the National Diet Building maintains its dignity and continues to convey its historical significance. Its daytime appearance is impressive, and the nighttime illumination adds a magical touch.

The Diet Building rewards those who look beyond its familiar façade. Its rich history and unique architectural challenges offer new discoveries, especially for first-time visitors. When in Tokyo, be sure to visit and witness this “strangeness” with your own eyes.


Visitor Information

Guided tours of the National Diet Building are available for both the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. Each course lasts about one hour and typically includes the main chamber, lobbies, and selected interior spaces. The routes differ slightly depending on which house you visit. Admission is free, but schedules may change according to plenary sessions or other parliamentary events. Advance reservations are recommended, especially for groups.
Please note: tours are conducted only in Japanese.
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