Japanese modern architecture, Tsukudo Shrine and the Airex Building

A Shinto shrine is usually a complex of buildings, and there are several architectural styles, but no mandatory rules. The Tsukudo Shrine in Chiyoda, Tokyo, a very old shrine that was founded in 940, adopted an unusual, very modern architectural solution.

The honden, which is the main worshiping hall, has a traditional design, but all other auxiliary structures were replaced by the Airex Building, the blue tower photographed here. Built in 1994, Airex was awarded a prize for good design.