The pavilion was a gift from the Japanese government and the Japanese immigrant community in Brazil to São Paulo.
The structure was built using only traditional joinery techniques, meaning no nails were used in the assembly of the main pavilion wood frame.
The materials for the pavilion were transported from Japan to Brazil by ship across the ocean.
The koi pond was designed to mirror the tranquil aesthetic of Kyoto's traditional garden layouts.
The pavilion houses a rare collection of masks used in traditional Japanese theater performances.
The Pavilhão Japonês is a permanent pavilion constructed in 1954 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the city of São Paulo. It was designed by architect Sutemi Horiguchi and built in Japan using traditional materials before being disassembled and reassembled in Ibirapuera Park. The structure exemplifies classic Japanese Shoin-zukuri architectural style, incorporating hinoki wood and granite. The site features a meticulously manicured garden designed according to traditional Japanese landscaping techniques. A large koi pond surrounds the structure, housing hundreds of carp that visitors can feed. The pavilion interior displays an extensive collection of ceramic, pottery, and clothing artifacts from the Japanese imperial era. It serves as an active cultural bridge between the Japanese immigrant community and the Brazilian public.
The wooden bridge overlooking the main pond, providing a clear view of the pavilion architecture reflected in the water.
Purchase fish food at the entrance to interact with the large koi in the pond.
Remove your shoes before entering the main wooden pavilion halls.
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and ensure a quieter environment.
Do not attempt to feed the koi with snacks other than the food specifically sold on-site.
Typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for maintenance and deep cleaning.
Visitors must remove footwear before entering the interior of the pavilion; silence is requested inside the exhibit halls.
