We’re ringing in 2026 with a look at 6 new art and architecture projects that we’re looking forward to seeing this year. From Hakata and Kyoto to Nara and Tokyo, these hotels, museums and parks are set to transform their respective neighborhoods all across Japan.
The Gateway Park “HAKATA MEIJI” (Spring 2026)
Conceived by architect Sou Fujimoto, The Gateway Park is set to transform the landscape of Fukuoka through a dynamic network of floating walkways, terrace and rooftop garden situated prominently in front of the Hakata Station. With its location as the “gateway” to Kyushu, it aims to create a one-of-a-kind park that harmoniously blends urban elements with natural beauty, all while embracing the concept of a Three-Dimensional fusion. Adjacent to the park, a four-story tenant building will house an array of tenants, including restaurants and wellness facilities.
The park is scheduled to open in the Spring of 2026.
Imperial Hotel Kyoto (March 5, 2026)
The Imperial Hotel Kyoto will officially open its doors in Spring 2026, marking a pivotal expansion as the first new Imperial Hotel to debut in three decades. Located in Kyoto’s Gion district, the new boutique hotel is housed in the restored Yasaka Kaikan. Its 1 billion yen ($100 million) restoration is led by Obayashi Corporation, the same company that built the original structure nearly 90 years ago.
Interiors were designed by New Material Research Laboratory, the firm jointly established by artist Hiroshi Sugimoto and architect Tomoyuki Sakakida.
MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives (March 28, 2026)
Mon is a new experimental museum opening next to Takanawa Gateway Station, and is the final crown of the district’s redevelopment. The exterior was designed by Kengo Kuma and features wood and greenery rising in a spiral pattern connecting earth and sky. “This pattern creates a three-dimensional corridor where flowers bloom in each season and creates an opportunity to experience the seasonal change and character.” The exterior links to the museum’s programming, which will feature seasonal rotations that blend art, science, technology, entertainment, Japan’s seasons, and traditional culture.
Starbucks Cafe & Art Gallery Yanaka Gotenzaka (March 28, 2026)
This Spring, Starbucks Japan is opening a cafe and art gallery in Tokyo’s Yanaka neighborhood. While serving their standard beverages, the new location will have also have a mandate to support up-and-coming local artists and art students.
The store is a two-story wooden building designed local architecture firm HAGISO with the concept of “the intersection of art and coffee,” paying homage to the history and culture of the Yanaka area. And while Yanaka is know for its many temples, it is also home to art museums and galleries lie SCAI the Bathhouse and Nezu Museum. This is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Tokyo and this addition will only add to its dynamism.
Nara Prison Hotel (April 27, 2026)
Spending the night in jail is usually not a good thing. Unless of course you’re staying in Japan’s Nara Prison, a historic red-brick structure built in 1908 with western archways and onion domes that lend an air of castle more than incarceration. The prison shut down in 2017 but is being preserved for its architectural and historic significance. The renovated structure will reopen in April as a hotel, opeated by Hoshinoya Resorts.
Yurakucho Park (2nd half of 2026)
Mitsubishi Estate will open Yurakucho Park, a hub for Japanese culture, on the site of the demolished Yurakucho Building and Shin-Yurakucho Building. Yurakucho Park will host the urban design project Japa Valley, produced by Pharrell Williams and Nigo, who are collaborating with Japanese hospitality brand Not A Hotel to design a commercial district inspired by California’s Napa Valley and will combine art, commerce, and hospitality.
Yurakucho Park is scheduled to open in the second half of 2026, with Japa Valley opening later in 2027.
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