Our Mission Statement

AIA Japan, the AIA’s fourth international chapter, was founded in June 2005 to serve an active and growing membership throughout the country.  The chapter has enabled the AIA to better meet the needs of its members here, and to uphold the professional tenets first outlined 150 years ago by the AIA’s founders in the United States. 

While the day to day practice of architecture may differ from country to country, the ideals of architecture as a profession are consistent throughout the world.  Recent building scandals in Japan have illuminated a lack of clear direction for the architecture profession, distinct from engineering, construction, or interior design.  AIA Japan continues to work closely with its sister organization, the Japanese Institute of Architects (JIA), to further this awareness.  At a more grassroots level, AIA Japan is also charged with providing an increasing range of services – including educational programs, event sponsorship, and mentorship.  These programs take advantage of Japan’s rich building traditions and world-class modern architecture as grounds to foster a culture of architecture, for members and non-members alike. 

The very first mission statement of the AIA, dating from 1857, was to "promote the scientific and practical perfection of its members" and "elevate the standing of the profession." In 1858 the constitution was amended, enlarging the mission "to promote the artistic, scientific, and practical profession of its members; to facilitate their intercourse and good fellowship; to elevate the standing of the profession; and to combine the efforts of those engaged in the practice of Architecture, for the general advancement of the Art."  While these precepts continue to be refined through the years, the basic objectives of the AIA as a professional organization have remained the same; they continue to guide AIA Japan’s activities as well.