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Shuhei Aoyama, the Japanese architect who became a household name in China after redesigning a cramped Beijing hutong on a 2015 reality show, is now reshaping how we think about urban spaces. From revitalizing aging neighborhoods to designing global commercial hubs, Aoyama’s 20-year journey in China reveals a philosophy: 'Architecture isn’t just concrete – it’s about human connection.'
In an exclusive chat with CGTN’s Yang Yan ahead of the 2025 Osaka World Expo, Aoyama shared how historic preservation and futuristic design can coexist. 'The Expo isn’t just a tech showcase – it’s a bridge for cross-cultural dialogue,' he said, hinting at his upcoming projects blending Japanese minimalism with China’s rapid urbanization.
Fun fact? His viral hutong makeover proved even 30-square-meter spaces can become community magnets! As cities worldwide combat cookie-cutter designs, Aoyama’s work reminds us: Great architecture starts with listening to the people who live there.
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Japanese Architect Blends Culture & Innovation in China | Exclusive Interview 
From revitalizing aging neighborhoods to designing global commercial hubs, Aoyama’s 20-year journey in China reveals a philosophy: 'Architecture isn’t just concrete – it’s about human connection.'
'The Expo isn’t just a tech showcase – it’s a bridge for cross-cultural dialogue,' he said, hinting at his upcoming projects blending Japanese minimalism with China’s rapid urbanization.
As cities worldwide combat cookie-cutter designs, Aoyama’s work reminds us: Great architecture starts with listening to the people who live there.
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