ARCHITECTURAL INNOVATION AND EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE: THE CASE OF FUJI KINDERGARTEN IN JAPAN
Received: 24th April 2025 Revised: 30th April 2025 &1st May 2025 Accepted: 1st May 2025 Date of Publication: 7th May 2025
Keywords:
Fuji Kindergarten, Innovative Design, Montessori Philosophy, Architecture Pedagogy, Early Childhood Education and Care, Holistic DevelopmentAbstract
This case study explores Fuji Kindergarten, located in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, Japan, renowned for its innovative architecture and design. Rooted in Montessori philosophy, the kindergarten emphasizes free play, children's connection with nature, and autonomy. Designed by architects Takaharu and Yui Tezuka, the building features a distinctive circular layout, offering a 360-degree experience when standing at the center of the grassy playground. This paper examines Fuji Kindergarten's unique architectural features, its educational principles in alignment with Montessori education, and its broader implications for early childhood education. The success of Fuji Kindergarten not only challenges traditional educational practices but also introduces a new paradigm for integrating architectural innovation with child-centered pedagogies. By blending traditional Japanese architecture with contemporary educational philosophies, it demonstrates how thoughtful design can significantly impact young children's developmental outcomes and educational experiences. This study highlights the importance of creating educational environments that align with pedagogical goals, fostering spaces that support the holistic development of children.
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