Looking more like the home of a global corporate giant than the local city council, this office complex reflects the modern Asian architectural sensibility. In some ways it even mirrors the famed Petronas Towers in Malaysia. In addition to its twin 48-story spires, the Tokyo Government building is also the tallest in its city, as the Petronas Towers are the tallest in Malaysia. The building's towering height is the result of Japan's late 20th century economic boom when land values soared and it seemed like the money would never stop flowing. Tokyo wanted to demonstrate a measure of autonomy, and building its own grand city hall away from the Japanese government offices was the first step. The new complex pays homage to its heritage and its people through its granite façade which is covered in a geometric pattern the architect says was inspired by traditional Japanese homes. Inspiration for the towers is said to come from the churches of Germany, and its great plaza is a distant cousin to the Campo in Siena. It is this plaza that separates the politicians from the workers. The towers house offices for the 13,000 workers in the city's various departments. The city council meets in a separate building on the other side of the public square enclosed with a portico.

Image courtesy Saam Shabahang.

Image courtesy Saam Shabahang.