French photographer François Prost recently embarked on a 3,000-kilometer journey across Japan to document the country’s iconic "love hotels." These establishments, known for their bold and whimsical architecture, cater primarily to couples seeking privacy. Prost’s series captures the quirky designs, including buildings shaped like UFOs, boats, castles, and even whales, reflecting a uniquely Japanese architectural tradition.
Emerging in the 1960s and 1970s, these hotels were designed to stand out and indicate their purpose at a glance. While some exteriors mimic European castles or Arabian palaces, others feature colorful, playful facades, like the candy-themed Sweets Hotel in Shibuya. Despite their flamboyance, privacy remains a core element, with design features like separate entrances and exits, self-check-ins, and minimal windows ensuring discretion.
The candy-themed Sweets Hotel in Tokyo's downtown Shibuya district. Francois Prost
Though their popularity peaked in the late 20th century, love hotels remain a significant part of Japan’s cultural landscape. Once associated with sex work, they now primarily serve couples, particularly those living in shared homes, offering a space for leisure and intimacy. However, newer establishments often adopt subtler designs due to stricter regulations introduced in the 1980s.
Prost’s photographs highlight the juxtaposition of Japan’s conservative societal norms and the creative freedom expressed through these buildings. With plans to compile the images into a book via Kickstarter, Prost aims to showcase not just the hotels but the cultural nuances of modern Japan. As with his previous projects, these images go beyond architecture, offering a lens into the social fabric of the country.
