The ROHM Theatre Kyoto (formerly Kyoto Kaikan) was designed by modernist architect Kunio Maekawa, completed and opened to the public in 1960. The structure is made of reinforced concrete with clean horizontal lines, particularly emphasized by the all-encompassing gently curved exposed concrete roof, which has been compared to the roof shape of the Sanmon Gate of Nanzenji Temple. The building houses a large main hall (2,005 seats) and two smaller event rooms arranged in a low, pavilion-like composition. The theater won the 1960 Architectural Institute of Japan Prize.

The ROHM Theatre Kyoto is in active use as a cultural venue. The original building, designed by Kunio Maekawa, was renovated between 2012 and 2016, and reopened under its current name. It comes from Kyoto-based company ROHM Semiconductor, which provided 5.25 billion yen for the renovation costs, saving the building from possible demolition. The renovation was done by Kohyama Atelier. It respected much of Maekawa’s architectural language, while some modern interventions were introduced to improve accessibility, energy efficiency, and functional flexibility. The restoration project received the 17th Public Buildings Prize for its sensitive fusion of heritage conservation and modern performance needs (last updated on November 24, 2025).