St. Mary's Cathedral (Tokyo)

St. Mary’s Cathedral in Tokyo, completed in 1964, replaced the old wooden cathedral that was destroyed during wartime. Kenzo Tange’s design departed from the traditional Gothic style, reflecting a unique blend of Modernist and Metabolist styles.

The cathedral’s layout is in the form of a cross, with eight hyperbolic parabolas opening upwards to form a cross of light. These parabolas continue vertically along the length of the four facades. The structure is made mostly of concrete, stainless steel, and Italian marble. The exterior is bright and polished, presenting a sleek and modern look, while the interior is rough and textured, providing a sense of contrast and depth.