Home to the Kyoto Symphony Orchestra, the Kyoto Concert Hall was opened in 1995 upon the 1200th anniversary of ‘Heian-kyo’, the ancient capital. Designed by Arata Isozaki, the entrance hall of this brilliant structure can release powerful afflatuses even in the most non-creative of people. Embellished with sculptures and twelve pillars that represent the twelve zodiac signs, it is only a trailer of sorts for the grand musical journey that the visitors are about to embark upon. The symphony hall on the other hand is an illustration of the technological advancement of mankind given how it creates optical illusions, with the help of music, to cut you off from the real world outside. The ensemble hall, replete with striking constellations on its ceiling and streaks of light that point towards the magnetic north is perfect for piano performances and those by mini orchestras.

The auditorium is easily the most interesting feature of the concert hall because this is where most of the magic happens. Built in a shoebox style with modern elements and acoustics, the stage stands like a giant, welcoming people to witness the surreal spectacle. The pipe organ with some 90 odd controls was built by Johannes Klais Orgelbau gmbH & Co.KG, the most popular German organ builders of the time and produces music that can put the audience in a state of trance.