Must-see architecture in Kansai: Tadao Ando's three low-key yet stunning works
Last updated 2026-09-24 — The status of renowned architect Tadao Ando needs no introduction—his architectural works have long been the focus of architecture enthusiasts, photography lovers, and design aficionados. With the creation of many public spaces such as museums and art galleries,...
By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department, compiled and reported by Vico
The status of renowned architect Tadao Ando needs no introduction—his architectural works have long been the focus of architecture enthusiasts, photography lovers, and design aficionados. With the creation of many public spaces such as museums and art galleries, more travelers visiting Japan also make Tadao Ando’s buildings a key destination, making full use of them. A prime example is the famous Church of the Light. Hailing from Osaka in Kansai, Tadao Ando himself encourages those who enjoy traveling in Japan to keep an eye out for the following three architectural works by him in Kansai to experience the architectural aesthetics unique to his style.
A monograph featuring the interior of the Row House in Sumiyoshi on its cover, and the exterior of the Row House in Sumiyoshi. (Image source / ja.wikipedia)
1. Osaka – Row House in Sumiyoshi (住吉の长屋)
The Row House in Sumiyoshi is one of Tadao Ando’s earliest works, with its design and completion taking place between 1975 and 1976. The row house is one of the unique types of residences in the Kansai region, characterized by its long, narrow shape. From the front, the larger 14-tsubo space at the back is not visible. The exposed concrete texture showcases a consistent simplicity and restraint in appearance. This work was awarded the 31st Annual Architectural Institute of Japan Prize in 1979.
【Info】
The Row House in Sumiyoshi is also known as the Azuma House
Sumiyoshicho, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka City
Get off at JR Sumiyoshi-Torii-mae Station, and you can see it by walking straight down the road between the Sumiyoshi Tax Office and an acupuncture clinic.
A 4x4 House facing the Seto Inland Sea and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. (Image source / adcity)
2. Kobe – 4x4 House
The 4x4 House is located around the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe City. It is a square-shaped house that offers sea views and stands out quite distinctly compared to the surrounding buildings. Its exterior also reflects Tadao Ando’s architectural characteristics—clean, simple, understated, yet presence-bearing. The first of these two structures was built between 2001 and 2003, while the second wooden structure was completed in 2005. These are classified as “constrained buildings,” meaning they were completed under many limitations, such as restricted ground area and insufficient funding. These two paired houses offer views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Interestingly, the original client was single when the home was built but later got married and had children, making people admire the architectural master’s unique design flair and how its charm brought unexpected happiness to its residents.
【Info】
4X4 House
1-chome, Nishimaike, Tarumi Ward, Kobe City
Approximately a 15–20 minute walk from Maiko Station
The Naniwa-bashi exit designed by Tadao Ando. (Image source / ja.wikipedia)
3. Osaka – Naniwa-bashi Exit (なにわ橋? 出入口)
Naniwa-bashi is along the Keihan Railway’s Nakanoshima Line, and its exit was designed by Tadao Ando, completed in 2009. It is also passed through when transferring to the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line at Kitahama Station. The simple curved form complements the nearby Central Public Hall green space. At night, the inner side of the curve is illuminated with LED lights, emitting a blue glow reminiscent of an underwater scene, symbolizing an island emerging from the water. As passengers exit the station from the underground level to the ground floor, they experience a feeling akin to surfacing from a dive. Be sure to admire the unique atmosphere it exudes at night when passing by this station.
The nighttime view of the Naniwa-bashi Exit is truly worth seeing. (Image source / obayashi)
【Info】
Naniwa-bashi Exit
1-chome, Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka City
Nearby attractions include Nakanoshima Park, Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts (Oriental Ceramics), and Tenma Tennjin Hanjotei
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