Tokagakudo Concert Hall
Designed to evoke the shape of a clematis flower, this octagonal hall was built in 1966 to mark the sixtieth birthday of Empress Kojun (1903–2000), the consort of Emperor Showa (1901–1989). Its name, which means “Peach Blossom Hall,” refers to the peach emblem of Empress Kojun. Each wall is decorated with a mosaic representing a bird with outspread wings, each expressing a different theme, such as the four seasons. Western classical music concerts performed by the Court musicians of the Music Department of the Imperial Household are given here in the presence of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, and other members of the Imperial Family.
NUMBERED CAPTIONS
1. Wind, water, and fire
2. The four seasons
3. Crane and tortoise
4. Snow, moon, and flowers
5. Court music
OCTAGONAL DIAGRAM CAPTIONS
Left. The necessities of life
Center. Sun, moon, and stars
Right. Pine, bamboo, and plum
Inside: Tokagakudo