On June 11, 2025, I-House will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the completion of its main building.
Constructed in 1955, the building stands as the sole collaborative work of three of Japan’s leading modernist architects: Kunio Maekawa, Junzo Sakakura, and Junzo Yoshimura. Recognized as an architectural masterpiece, it is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs.
Adjacent to the building lies a traditional Japanese garden designed in 1929 by Ogawa Jihei VII, a renowned Kyoto landscape architect also known as Ueji. Originally commissioned by Koyata Iwasaki, the garden is designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty by Minato City.
Together, the building and garden form a unique cultural space that has welcomed global dignitaries and fostered international dialogue. Notable past visitors include Eleanor Roosevelt, a key figure in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Walter Gropius, often referred to as the “father of modern architecture”; and Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India.
To commemorate this historic milestone, I-House will host an Open Day on June 11 featuring a variety of events, as shown below. We warmly invite all members and their guests to join us for this one-day-only hospitality event.
70th Anniversary Exhibition (No reservation required, free admission)
We are showcasing a curated selection of furnishings, photographs, and documents that reflect the rich history of I-House. The library exhibition highlights magazines and books related to the former Iwasaki residence and garden, the design and construction of the I-House main building, and preservation and restoration projects over the years.
• Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, June 11 (Last Admission 5:30 pm)
• Venue: West Wing 4th Floor, Library, Annex Foyer
Commemorative Bento Lunch (Reservation required, limited to 50 guests, first-come, first-served basis)
Enjoy a special bento lunch crafted by our chef, featuring dishes and ingredients favored by the three architects, while taking in the garden view from the Kabayama-Matsumoto Room.
• Time: 11:30 am to 1:00 pm, June 11
• Venue: Kabayama-Matsumoto Room (B1)
• Fee: ¥15,000 (includes bento lunch, coffee or tea, and commemorative gift)
A portion of the fee will support the preservation and maintenance of the building and garden.
<<Click here to reserve your lunch>>
Strolling in the Garden (No reservation required, free admission)
Explore the garden at your leisure using our newly updated garden map, which highlights key features and scenic pathways to enhance your experience.
• Time: 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm (Last Admission 5:30 pm)
• Venue: Garden
Donation Opportunities (With commemorative gifts)
We are committed to preserving and maintaining our historic building and garden to ensure that they continue to inspire future generations, and your generous support is invaluable. As a token of our gratitude, donors on the day of the event will receive a commemorative gift. Your contributions play a vital role in sustaining this unique cultural landmark.
• Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, June 11
• Venue: West Wing 4th Floor
Complimentary I-House Postcard.
All visitors will receive a specially designed postcard while supplies last. The postcards are available at various locations, including the 4th floor of the West Wing, the garden, the Annex Foyer, and the library.
Additional Information:
• Tea Lounge “The Garden” and Restaurant SAKURA will operate as usual.
• Access to other areas of the facility may be restricted due to member use.
• Event details are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. We appreciate your understanding.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special occasion.