🗺️ Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building 東京駅丸の内駅舎

Tokyo Station's Marunouchi Building was designed by the pioneer of modern Japanese architecture, Kingo Tatsuno. The completed building, constructed with reinforced red bricks, had its roof and interior destroyed during the air raids of Showa 20 (1945). During the post-war reconstruction, it was transformed into a two-story structure and has been in use for over 60 years. In Heisei 15 (2003), it was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. In 2012, efforts were made to restore the damaged third floor and other parts to resemble their original appearance as closely as possible. Additionally, a seismic design was incorporated in the basement to withstand large-scale earthquakes. The north and south domes, each over 30 meters high, retain the substantial feel of the restored sections while incorporating new designs that meet functional requirements. Furthermore, the third and fourth floors and ceilings were also restored to their original appearance from the time of construction. The intricate details, such as the carvings of the eight zodiac signs and the reliefs of eagles, are not to be missed.

The station building, restored to its heavy appearance from when it opened in 1914, features exquisite details, including the restored reliefs designed at its inception. Today, it is one of only two stations, along with Tokyo Station and Mojiko Station, designated as important cultural properties by the country.