The Architecture of Sou Fujimoto: Primordial Future Forest

This exhibition at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi is the first major survey of works by famed architect Sou Fujimoto, who is the creative force behind the spectacular Grand Ring that encircles the national pavilions at Osaka Expo — among other iconic works.

What to expect

What principles should guide the construction of future cities? How can manmade edifices harmonize with nature? What does it take to build spaces that bring diverse people together, especially in the face of a global political reality shaped by hostility and divisions?

These are a few of the questions that animate Sou Fujimoto, the brain behind Osaka Expo‘s Grand Ring, among other acclaimed works. Primordial Future Forest, a new exhibition at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi, charts his achievements and key inspirations through a massive survey of 3D models, mockups, sketches, and video interviews.

Exhibition highlights

Our favorite was the life-size mockup of the Grand Ring. It’s made entirely out of wood and uses traditional wood joinery techniques that showcase Japanese craftsmanship and sustainability.

Another element we appreciated was the choice of stuffed toys over stuffiness. One of the galleries houses anthropomorphized stuffed toy versions of some of Fujimoto’s most iconic buildings — Osaka’s Grand Ring, Montpellier’s L’Arbre Blanc Residential Tower, Gunma’s Shiroiya Hotel, and more — having a discussion about, well, themselves. Each character has been assigned personality traits, and the tone is cheery and casual.

Even if you’re not especially into architecture, we found the presentation accessible and family friendly.

Schedule

The exhibition runs daily from Wednesday, July 2 to Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills. Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., except Tuesdays when it closes at 5 p.m. However, note that the exhibition will be open until 10 p.m. on September 23 and 5 p.m. on August 27. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing.

Tickets

Weekday admission is ¥2,300 for adults or ¥2,100 if you purchase online. Weekend and holiday tickets for adults are priced at ¥2,500 for adults, but you can save ¥0 if you purchase online in advance.

Purchase tickets in advance to secure your entry time.