Located in Odaiba, Minato City, Tokyo, the Fuji Media Holdings Building (commonly known as the FCG Building) serves as the headquarters of Fuji Television and stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in this waterfront area. Designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange, this building not only represents the modernization of the media industry but also blends architectural artistry with functional design. It was the last large-scale project that Tange personally supervised before his passing.
The building's overall proportions follow the 16:9 aspect ratio of high-definition television screens, reflecting its identity as a media hub. Its exterior features aluminum curtain walls, presenting a clean and futuristic appearance. The most striking element is the massive spherical structure on the upper floors—measuring 32 meters in diameter and weighing approximately 1,200 tons. Composed of over 3,000 metal panels made from corrosion-resistant titanium alloy, the sphere is both innovative in design and highly durable. It has become a signature feature of Odaiba’s skyline and an iconic image often associated with Fuji Television.
The internal structure is well-organized. The lower levels house parking and mechanical equipment, while the ground to seventh floors serve as the main television studio spaces. From the seventh floor upward, the building splits into office and media wings, connected by aerial corridors on the 12th, 18th, and 24th floors. A rooftop garden on the seventh floor is open to visitors, and a grand staircase measuring 12 meters wide and 100 meters long leads from the third floor to the rooftop.
Visitors can appreciate not only the building’s architecture but also the television station’s atmosphere through a variety of public attractions. On the first floor, the Fuji TV Mall includes the only “Sazae-san Shop” in Japan, selling merchandise related to the beloved national anime. The fifth floor features a TV Gallery that displays program content and historical materials, offering a deeper insight into the world of television production.
One of the most popular attractions is the spherical observation deck on the upper floors. The “Mezamashi Sky” on the 24th floor was once the studio for the morning show Mezamashi TV, while the “Hachitama” observation room on the 25th floor has been open to the public since 1997, drawing large crowds. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and even Tokyo Tower in the distance—making it a perfect spot for sightseeing and photography. A proposal plan is also available, making it a romantic destination for couples.
At night, the FCG Building takes on a new character. Light projection shows are displayed on the exterior walls from sunset until 11 p.m., becoming a regular nighttime spectacle for Odaiba visitors and adding visual charm to the entire bay area.
