Exploring the Memory of Tokyo: The Public Art Project at TOFROM YAESU TOWER

Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd. has unveiled plans for a major public art initiative named "TOFROM YAESU TOWER ART: The City of Mermaids," which will open in conjunction with the grand opening of the new TOFROM YAESU TOWER on September 10, 2026. This collaborative project is realized through a partnership with the Kougeki-no-Mori Art Foundation and Creative Association CEKAI. The details of this exciting venture will be shared on the official site, where updates will also be available.

A New Narrative for the City

At the heart of this project is an original story written by renowned film director Shinji Iwai, specifically for this installation. Set against the backdrop of Yaesu, this narrative intertwines historical fact with fantasy, illustrating the connections between Japan and overseas, the transformation from Edo to Tokyo, and the layers of time that characterize Yaesu. It captures the memories and daily lives of its residents, creating a compelling tapestry of experiences.

Eight talented artists including Kota Iguchi, Takuto Ohta, Tomohiro Kato, Midori Kawano, Hiroto Kobayashi, secca, Takahiro Matsuo, and the design collective MULTISTANDARD will each interpret this narrative through their unique artistic lenses. Additionally, the visual communication that will guide visitors through the artwork and the special site will be designed by the art unit SoSoSo.

Artworks that Transcend Mediums

The artworks will span various genres including video, art furniture, sculpture, and graphic design. They will be strategically placed throughout the building, providing a cohesive experience as they narrate a singular story. Visitors will navigate through this immersive journey, allowing them to tangibly experience the accumulated time and memories of Yaesu.

This project aspires to transform the entire facility into a unified "narrative space," embodying TOFROM YAESU TOWER’s vision of connecting people, time, and place through the interplay of story and art. As visitors engage with the works, they will create a new paradigm of public art experience that intersects their memories with those of the city.

Project Overview

- Project Name: TOFROM YAESU TOWER ART: The City of Mermaids
- Exhibition Period: Permanent display beginning September 10, 2026
- Venue: TOFROM YAESU TOWER, B1 Bus Terminal to 4th Floor, 1-9-1 Yaesu, Chuo City, Tokyo
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Planning and Coordination: Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd., Kougeki-no-Mori Art Foundation, CEKAI
- Official Website: TOFROM YAESU ART

About Shinji Iwai

Shinji Iwai debuted as a feature film director in 1995 with Love Letter. His notable works include All About Lily Chou-Chou, Vampire, and Song of Kirie. A published author, he has penned novels like Mermaid of Wallace and contributed lyrics for the post-earthquake recovery song “Hana wa Saku.” As we approach the 30th anniversary of Love Letter, the newly remastered version will hit theaters in 2025, and a 4K re-master of Swallowtail is set for release on September 4, 2026. He continues to create across various genres both domestically and internationally.

Participating Artists

- Kota Iguchi: A dynamic designer based in New York and Tokyo, focusing on motion graphics and immersive experiences.
- Takuto Ohta: An artist who explores new relationships through object-human communication, employing various mediums.
- Tomohiro Kato: Known for sculptures in iron, he investigates perception boundaries through his work.
- Midori Kawano: A visual director inspired by music and space, she creates experiences based on light phenomena.
- Hiroto Kobayashi: An architect and designer who connects spaces relationally with their communities.
- secca: A creative collective focused on blending traditional crafts with modern technology.
- Takahiro Matsuo: An artist merging light, video, and interaction in spatial expression.
- MULTISTANDARD: A design collective that seeks innovative perspectives in the design process.

Visual Design Team

The visual interface for the project will be constructed by the design unit SoSoSo, comprised of Takumi Abe and Yusaku Kimura, who collaborate across their distinct fields.

Project Team

Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1896, this esteemed company marks its 130th anniversary. It has a long-lasting commitment to resolving social issues through real estate development.
More about the company

Kougeki-no-Mori Art Foundation

This foundation manages Japan’s first outdoor museum and promotes numerous public art initiatives.
More about the foundation

CEKAI

A global creative organization established in 2013, CEKAI brings together diverse talents for innovative projects around the world.
Learn more about CEKAI

The anticipated opening of TOFROM YAESU TOWER ART: The City of Mermaids invites all to experience an extraordinary blend of art and narrative—a remarkable journey through time, place, and memory.