Public Architecture Day

What Is Public Architecture Day?

November 11th is "Public Architecture Day" in Japan. The date comes from likening the four lined-up "1"s in "1111" to the four pillars that support a building's structure, along with the completion of Japan's National Diet Building in November of the 11th year of Showa (1936). "Public Architecture Day" and November's "Public Architecture Month" were created to raise awareness of the role public buildings play and to strive for better public architecture, and have been observed since 2003. Each year, regional bureaus of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and the Public Buildings Association hold facility tours and other events.

Respect for Architecture, Embodied in Four Pillars

Public architecture refers to buildings related to government, education, culture, and welfare -- including national and local government offices, police and fire stations, libraries, museums, schools, hospitals, gymnasiums, community centers, and even train stations.

• Origin: "1111" is likened to the four "pillars" symbolizing a building's basic structure
• Another origin: the completion of Japan's National Diet Building, an iconic piece of public architecture, in November of the 11th year of Showa
• Purpose: to spread understanding of the social role and value of public architecture

Public Architecture's Role Across Generations

Public buildings are designed to remain in use not just for one generation, but often for decades -- sometimes over a century. That demands high-quality design built with a long-term perspective.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Visit a public facility or historic building near you
• Learn about iconic Japanese public buildings, like the National Diet Building
• Notice the architectural style and design of public buildings around you
• Reflect on the role public architecture plays in a community

Four Pillars Support Not Just a Building, but People's Lives

Public architecture is an important part of the social foundation that quietly supports our daily lives. November 11th is a day to take a fresh look at the public buildings around you.