The architectural plan for the New National Stadium
- The Floating Fountain -
A piece of architecture transformed into a platform for the Olympic Flame
Design is free: it has no definitive answers, and grows like a living being. In parallel with the evolution of technology, design is moving on from the era of challenging physical forms to a completely new age.
The architecture of the future will be founded in an “experience” born out of heightened human sensation and time. For me, experiences powerful enough to jolt the heart with the altogether unexpected and ecstatic, comprise the most important “material” that mankind can empathize with. It transcends race and time.
The Outer Gardens of Meiji Shrine have been loved by Japanese people since ancient times. The architectural plan for the New National Stadium is based on a design that is at one with nature, by fusing with the beauty of the four seasons. The mysterious, lean, minimalistic design leads from the spirit of “Japanese tea rooms” that epitomizes finely-honed Japanese beauty.
The floating Fountain. Visitors can enjoy strolling and jogging at the tranquil water’s edge amid the greenery of the Outer Gardens. During the summer, the water produces a cooling effect, and it can also be used in the event of a disaster.
"A piece of architecture which transcends form" becomes a "Fountain" for athletes - and it will be reborn as a huge platform for the Olympic Flame, a symbol of courage and hope to people all over the world.
- An inspiration for all eternity -
In July 2015, when Prime Minister Abe announced the revision of plans for the New National Stadium, the stadium for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, an image occurred to me.
I regard the creation of an idea as a personal challenge, just as an athlete challenges the limitations of humankind. Its realization is a moment of joy and happiness.
This design was created with a sense of appreciation for the joy creation brings, for being born in this age. This design is a depiction of my feelings for the future.
Since the competition called for a design-build format, countless architects including Zaha Hadid and myself were not able to participate. But it is my wish that this idea will live on perpetually and realized somewhere in the world in the future.
I hope the rejuvenated New National Stadium will become a symbol of Japan as a sacred site for athletes from every corner of the earth, and a legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Tokujin Yoshioka