Terrazza Aoyama is one of Tokyo’s lesser-known buildings. It is small and in the backstreets of Shibuya. Many people would be hard-pressed to find it. Most would call it a concrete block. I can’t disagree with that, but it is a beautiful one.
The building’s exterior is grey, and there are many windowless walls. But look carefully. There are many angles and curves. They make shadows. It is not the standard box. Terrazzo Aoyama is great for architectural photography.
The building has one unique feature. Above one business, a sloping wall creates a triangular open space in the ceiling. The architect said it was to provide an “air pocket” in a congested neighborhood. It’s interesting but behind some elevator wells, making it difficult to see from the street.
Photography tips
- Terrazzo Aoyama has many buildings near it, and there is a street directly in front. A wide-angle lens will be useful.
- Be careful near the entrance of Chateau Ameba, under the “air pocket.” A line of signs says, “No entrance unless on business.” It’s only written in Japanese, and security guards are near.
Terrazzo Aoyama FAQ
- Architect: Kiyoshi Takeyama
- Completion date: 1991
- Number of floors: five above ground and four below
- Land area: 1,800 square meters
- Major Tenants: Jaguar Aoyama and Chateau Ameba
Where is Terraza Aoyama?
It is about a ten-minute walk from the Ginza Line’s Gaienmae Station. Leave via Exit 2a or 2b. Here is a map:
Wrapping up
Terrazzo Aoyama is an excellent place for architectural photography. Beautiful might not be the word for it, but it is interesting. It is also small, so you probably won’t need much time there. Still, you should be able to get some nice pictures. Unfortunately, a website for it doesn’t seem to exist.
For more architectural photography articles, look at:
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.
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