🗺️ Capitol Building国会議事堂

The National Diet Building began construction in 1920 (Taisho 9) and was completed in 1936 (Showa 11). The central tower is designed symmetrically, with the House of Councillors on the right and the House of Representatives on the left. Both houses are open for public tours, which are free of charge. The tours for the House of Councillors and the House of Representatives each take about one hour and are conducted by staff under the security of the National Diet. The tour route for the House of Representatives is as follows: House of Representatives Plenary Chamber → Resting Room → House of Peers → Central Hall → Forecourt. The tour route for the House of Councillors is: Entrance Hall → House of Councillors Plenary Chamber → Resting Room → Central Hall → Forecourt. In the Entrance Hall, there are models of the building, replicas of the members' seats, and a chair that was once used by Emperor Meiji available for viewing. The attached shop sells limited edition Japanese snacks such as baked buns (manju) and senbei (rice crackers) exclusive to the National Diet Building, as well as exclusive items like folders and mugs featuring portraits of past Prime Ministers.

If you wish to visit, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance on the official website and confirm the schedule. Photography is allowed only at specific locations, but video recording is prohibited. On the day of the official meeting, visits are not allowed during the hour before the scheduled start time and throughout the meeting. Exclusive merchandise can be purchased at the souvenir shop.