A Legacy of Luxury and Resilience
Standing in Ginza 1-chōme, the Okuno Building is a remarkable relic of Tokyo’s early Shōwa era. Built in 1932 as luxury apartments, it now houses art galleries, antique shops, and private offices. Amid Ginza’s modern skyscrapers, this structure offers a journey through time, complete with its original manually operated elevator doors.
The building’s two adjoining structures—the Main Building (1932) and the New Building (1934)—were designed by Kawamoto Ryōichi, a celebrated architect known for his reinforced concrete designs. Commissioned by Okuno Jisuke, a railroad parts magnate, the building was designed to withstand earthquakes, a lesson learned after the Great Kantō Earthquake of 1923. Today, it attracts art enthusiasts and tourists eager to explore its unique ambiance.
Room 306 Project: A Link to the Past
Room 306 holds a special place in the Okuno Building’s history. Once a beauty salon in the 1930s, it became the residence of its owner, who lived there until her passing in 2009 at the age of 100. Today, Room 306 is part of a non-profit project where members use the space for creative activities. The project preserves the essence of the room while allowing time’s natural progression to leave its mark, creating a living timeline that bridges the past and present.
The Room 306 Project operates on two principles: members share the rent and uphold the project’s evolving ethos. Visitors are encouraged to check the project’s schedule before planning their visit.
Exploring the Okuno Building
The Okuno Building offers a mix of antique shops on the first floor and small art galleries on the upper levels. Its historical charm and artistic significance make it a must-visit for those interested in Tokyo’s cultural layers. Whether you’re admiring the architecture or exploring the galleries, this building is a rare gem in the heart of Ginza.
