An important place for the work of Japanese politics
Built in 1936, the National Diet Building spurred on Japan’s varied history. Located in Nagatacho in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, it occupies a large place as the center of Japanese politics. The pure white concrete building has a bilateral symmetry and as you look at it from the front, the House of Representatives of Japan is on the left while the House of Councillors is on the right. The area surrounding the Diet Building is beautifully arranged beginning with the Constitution Memorial Center, the Front Courtyard which has been created in Japanese and Western styles and other facilities so that visitors can enjoy a walk through the area.
Sightseeing for free
The National Diet Building can be toured inside for free. Sightseeing is possible from Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 4pm, and a tour through the building can be completed within an hour. Along with weekends, national holidays and the New Year’s holidays, there are times when Parliament is in session or events are taking place when sightseeing is not possible so it is prudent to check the homepage regarding the day that you plan to visit. Anyone is free to take a look inside the building once you check in at the reception desk. The Public Gallery during plenary sessions often seen on the television broadcasts, the resting area for the Emperor, and the beautifully decorated Central Hall all centering on the Front Courtyard can be seen. Furthermore, at the first visitors’ lobby, there is a public information display on the activities and roles of the House of Councillors and the history of the Diet Building so that you can get a detailed education on the workings of Japanese politics. You can also come across souvenirs such as original goods including ningyoyaki pastries. In cases where visiting groups numbering more than 10 people are involved, advance reservations are necessary. Also, free attendance at sessions at the House of Councillors is possible. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis 30 minutes before the start of the session so people who would like to participate should go to the reception desk handling such attendance.