National Diet Building: Seat of Japanese Democracy

The National Diet Building (Kokkai-gijidō) is where both houses of the National Diet of Japan meet, located in the Nagatachō district of Tokyo. Completed in 1936 after 17 years of construction, the building stands as a symbol of Japan's parliamentary democracy. The Diet Building is made up of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. Sessions of the House of Representatives take place in the south wing, and sessions of the House of Councillors in the north wing. The building's design blends European and Japanese architectural styles. The exterior is primarily granite, while the interior features marble. The central hall, located directly under the tower, has a cathedral-like ceiling and stained glass windows. Bronze statues of key figures in Japan's parliamentary history adorn the hall. Tours are available, offering a glimpse into the workings of Japanese politics. The National Diet Building has a rich history. The first Imperial Diet was opened in 1890. The first provisional building, where the first Diet meeting was held, burned down almost two months after it was constructed. The Diet met in temporary structures for the first fifty years of its existence because there was no agreement over what form its building should take. The current building was constructed between 1920 and 1936. All building materials, except for the stained glass, door locks, and pneumatic tube system, are of Japanese origin.