The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, designed by Shigeru Ban, is inspired by Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji. It is designed around an inverted, lattice-shaped cone that symbolizes the form of the dormant volcano, which has long been a spiritual foundation for the Japanese people. The Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center aims to provide a special space for understanding and observing the significance of the mountain, famous for its symmetry and tranquility, for future generations. The 4,300-square-meter complex features an observation hall offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can reach the observation tower via a 193-meter spiral ascent, designed by Shigeru Ban to reflect the feeling of rising toward the mountain itself. While many proposed designs for the project reflected the mountain’s shape on the roof, Shigeru Ban took a unique approach by inverting the mountain’s form, creating a design that encourages visitors to ascend and experience a sense of competition. Along the slope, visitors are treated to beautiful light projections of the mountain. As they climb, they can enjoy various stunning views of Mount Fuji at different heights, and at the top, on the rooftop, there is a picture window framing the real Mount Fuji.
Content: Interior Architecture Magazine
Written by: ÇİLSE MERVE GÜNEL
