ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
Life

Why tiny buildings are big in Japan

Small structures are an integral part of the urban fabric

A glass-enclosed car dealer's showroom occupies a wedge-shaped building in Tokyo's Meguro Ward. (Photo by Edward M. Gomez)

TOKYO -- Mother always said, "You can never be too rich or too thin -- or have too much kitchen-counter or closet space." She also advised, "Be ambitious. Think big!" Mother was wrong.

Just ask the property owners, architects and inventive construction managers in Tokyo and other Japanese cities who, over the years, have concocted some of the most unusual -- and intriguing -- structures to be found anywhere in the world.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more