Stroll through an urban forest
Although the National Art Center, Tokyo is located in bustling Roppongi, its surroundings are replete with greenery. Kisho Kurokawa, the NACT’s architect, intended his creation to appear as if encircled by a forest, and his vision is slowly becoming a reality as more of the nearby land is being turned into green space.
One noteworthy spot is Aoyama Park, reopened after renovations in February 2023. Located near the NACT’s main entrance, the park combines seamlessly with the plaza in front of the Center. With playground equipment and a grassy hill to run on, it’s a great place to stop by with children before or after a visit to the NACT.
The grove of cherry trees between the park and the Center attracts crowds in spring, when cherry blossoms paint the scene in shades of white and pink. And in fall, visitors may enjoy the seasonal foliage around the building, including along the winding walking path that leads downhill from the main entrance toward Nogizaka Station.