Miyazaki metabolist hall to be demolished

The former Miyakonojo Civic Hall, a metabolist icon in Miyazaki Prefecture, is expected to be demolished sometime this year as hefty maintenance costs prove too high for city finances.

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Shrine to demolish 53-yr old building by iconic architect

Izumo Taisha Shrine Office 2

A 53-year old former Shrine Office building in Shimane Prefecture is at risk of demolition. The owner, Izumo-taisha (aka the Izumo Grand Shrine), is considering tearing down the building due to its deteriorating state.

Architects and local groups are petitioning the shrine to consider the cultural importance of the building and preserve it for future generations. The shrine office was designed by architect Kiyonori Kikutake (1928-2011) and completed in 1963.  Kikutake, along with Kisho Kurokawa, was one of the founders of the metabolist movement and designed numerous buildings across Japan.Read more