Japan's first designer hotel
by wchisatow
Dec 12, 2021
Fukuoka's nightlife is always bustling, with the shimmering lights along the Nakagawa River and the aroma of ramen wafting from street stalls. Yet, tucked away at a corner, Hotel Il Palazzo offers a mysterious world of its own! Built during Japan's bubble economy era, this hotel was a collaborative masterpiece by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Aldo Rossi and renowned designer Shigeru Uchida. After its renovation in 2023, it has regained its brilliance✨
Stepping into the hotel, the striking red and green travertine facade exudes solemnity and charm. The low-rise annex resembles a miniature town, while the front staircase evokes the feeling of entering a sacred temple. Hidden deep within a passage glowing with mysterious blue light is the entrance to the bar, named "El Dorado" after the legendary City of Gold, continuing the enigmatic atmosphere of Rossi's original design.
Inside the bar, the bold color contrasts are truly stunning. Mirrors etched with Rossi's works adorn the walls, while Shigeru Uchida's "Dancing Water" installation serves as the centerpiece💦. For just 3,100 yen, you can enjoy a two-hour immersive experience—sip on a cocktail and let the interplay of light and shadow transport you into a realm where art and history collide.
Post by zaizai666 | Apr 24, 2025




















