Japanese architects sell a lifestyle on global stage

"Japanese architecture offers warmth and kindness...."

If gray concrete Brutalism is your idea of "warmth and kindness."

What planet are these people living on? When I look out my Tokyo window, 99% of what I see is drab, boxy shaped, prefabricated buildings surrounded by untreated cinder block walls that wouldn't be out of place at a concentration camp. I freeze in winter and boil in summer, thanks to all the design shortcomings in my modern condo.

Every now and then I see a not-ugly building in a Japanese city. But it's the exception, not the norm.

99% of architecture anywhere is drab and unimaginative. If you take the time to look, there is some really inspiring architecture in Japan. There is a reason Japanese architects are often successful worldwide.

@zichi

There are some great Japanese architects, my favor it is Tadeo Ando.

Agree. Omotesando Hills is a masterpiece!

"Omotesando Hills is a masterpiece!"

A masterpiece of destruction, you mean. To build it, they ripped down the Bauhaus-inspired Dōjunkai Aoyama Apartments, built in 1927, and which become a repository of art galleries and boutiques by independent designers. In its place is a modern shopping mall selling famous mass brands, despite protests of preservationists.

I tried going twice, but had leave quickly, as the concourses are so crowded and narrow, the place had the ambiance of a bus station.