Nestled in Tokyo's striking Nishi-Shinjuku high-rise area, the Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower serves an educational role, standing uniquely tall.
What Is Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower?
The Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, situated in Tokyo's Nishi-Shinjuku high-rise district, stands between Shinjuku Station and the Shinjuku Central Business District. As the world's second-tallest educational building and Tokyo's seventeenth-tallest structure, it is a prominent landmark.
A Brief History of Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower
In the mid-2000s, Mode Gakuen fashion school organized an architectural design competition for its new Tokyo high-rise. Tange Associates, led by chief architect Paul Noritaka Tange, won among hundreds of entries. Construction, helmed by Shimizu Corporation, started in May 2006. Upon its 2008 completion, Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower garnered accolades, including Skyscraper of the Year from Emporis.
3 Notable Characteristics of Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower
Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower stands out in Tokyo's skyline due to its unique features:
Vertical Campus: Housing three vocational schools, including Tokyo Mode Gakuen fashion school, HAL Tokyo IT college, and Shuto Ikō medical college, the tower accommodates approximately 10,000 students. Its cocoon design symbolizes growth and transformation for students.
Elliptical Shape: The tower's elliptical shape ensures even sunlight distribution, reducing thermal radiation and greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the lack of flat surfaces, a retractable helicopter pad is available for emergencies.
Floor Layout: With 50 stories, each floor features three rectangular classrooms surrounding a central core containing stairs and an elevator. Additionally, three student lounges, spanning three stories each, offer social and study spaces with panoramic views.
Great places to go near Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower
Things to do near Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower
1. Tokyo Disneyland
Opening hours: Opens at 09:00-21:00
Price: From US$51.12
Distance: 17.83km
Recommended sightseeing time:1 day
Address: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031
What travelers say:
E30***41: “Tokyo Disney has two parks, Beauty and the Beast-themed attractions are delightful, and park entry is convenient.”
2. Ghibli Museum
Opening hours: Open at 10:00-18:00
Price: From US$19.48
Distance: 11.45km
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Address: 1-chōme-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
What travelers say:
133***92: “Ticket collection is simple and convenient, alleviating worries about QR code clarity. Despite the crowds, souvenirs may not match Oak Republic's variety.”
Restaurants near Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower
1. Menya Musashi Flagship Restaurant
Price: Avg. per personUS $11.00
Distance: 460m
Address: 7-2-6 Nishishinjuku Shinjuku Tokyo
What travelers say:
Nefelibata: “Musashi Noodle House offers tasty and affordable salmon snacks like salmon steamed eggs and sushi. With various salmon dishes, it's a must-visit for salmon rice enthusiasts!”
2. Chacha Yudachi
Price: Avg. per personUS $29.00
Distance: 488m
Address: Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 3 Chome−26−18, Kawano Bld., 6f
Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower stands as a remarkable architectural marvel in Tokyo's skyline, serving as an educational hub and a symbol of transformation.
Visitors can explore nearby attractions like Tokyo Disneyland and the Ghibli Museum, and enjoy dining options such as Menya Musashi Flagship restaurant.
Whether marveling at its design or exploring the surrounding area, Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower offers a captivating experience for visitors in Tokyo.
