Japan National Stadium
New stadium building conceived as a forested hill which transforms the site into a new landscape that is continuously accessible for the enjoyment of the people of Tokyo.
By avoiding the perception of yet another “object building”, the visitor’s experience to the new Japan National Stadium is transformed into one of discovery and surprise. During events the expectation of the performance and the social engagement that the spectacles produce become the focus of attention. During idle times, the Park replaces what otherwise is always a huge mass of forbidden emptiness. The design of the Park is inspired by the Meiji Jingu. The trees of Meiji Jingu are harvested strategically in sequence, which over many years become a forest seen as “Chinju no Mori” made out of evergreens. In comparison, “Zouki Bayashi”, the crafts tradition, has made deciduous trees a source of people’s livelihood. Our proposal combines both types of forests at the base of the hill; a clearing at the top offers distant views.
The retractable roof, a self supported cylindrical surface in fabric allows events to be held in any weather condition.
The Forest that changes its appearance with the seasons, combined with the open space, provide a natural respite for contemporary people inhabiting a highly congested metropolitan life style. The New National Stadium will not only provide an exciting space for various events, but will also integrate itself into people’s everyday lives.
