Story perspectives

Kagawa Gymnasium's Demolition Sparks Architectural Controversy

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium, designed by Kenzo Tange, is slated for demolition after a 2014 closure for safety concerns.
The Kagawa Prefectural Assembly approved the demolition and allocated 1 billion yen.
The plan sparked debate as many regard the gym as a modern architectural masterpiece.
A local group, the Former Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium Rebirth Committee, proposed converting the gym into a hotel to preserve its significance and boost tourism.

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Story summary

The Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium, designed by Kenzo Tange, is slated for demolition after a 2014 closure for safety concerns.
The Kagawa Prefectural Assembly approved the demolition and allocated 1 billion yen.
The plan sparked debate as many regard the gym as a modern architectural masterpiece.
A local group, the Former Kagawa Prefectural Gymnasium Rebirth Committee, proposed converting the gym into a hotel to preserve its significance and boost tourism.