Did you know Higashikurume City Hall stands as a testament to a city born from fields? It transformed into a vibrant part of the Tokyo Metropolis. Let’s uncover some stories woven into its very foundations.
Higashikurume was once a village named Kurume. This village was part of Kanagawa Prefecture. It then became part of Tokyo. This happened during the Meiji Restoration on April 1 1889.
But why Higashikurume City Hall? Why this name? The name Kurume has a few possible origins. One theory suggests it’s from “kuruma muchibe”. These were the emperor’s litter maintenance staff. Another idea links it to a dialect word for “walnut”. Some say it means “small flat place”. The most likely theory connects it to the Kurome River. This river flows through the city.
To avoid confusion with Kurume in Fukuoka the city added “Higashi” meaning east. This new name was already familiar. It was the name of the local train station since 1915. So the residents accepted the name quickly. The city was officially founded on October 1 1970. This is when Higashikurume City Hall began its work.
Today Higashikurume City Hall operates with a mayor-council government. The mayor is directly elected. The city council has 22 members. Together with Kiyose, Higashikurume sends two members to the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly.
Ryoma Tomita is the current mayor. He is an independent candidate. Before him many mayors led Higashikurume. Kenko Fujii was the first mayor serving from 1970 to 1975. Masaji Ishidsu Kojiro Ito and Saburo Yoshida followed. Mitsuo Inaba Shiyega Nozaki Kazuhiko Baba and Katsumi Namiki also served.
Higashikurume is a regional commercial center today. It is also a bedroom community for central Tokyo. Many residents commute to Tokyo for work. In 2010 the commuting rate to Tokyo’s special wards was 33.2%.
While here consider that Higashikurume is rich in nature. Natural springs and green spaces are abundant. It’s a short trip from central Tokyo. You are just 20 minutes from Ikebukuro and 30 minutes from Shinjuku.
Higashikurume offers local delicacies snacks and spirits. You can find shops and restaurants around the station. Souvenirs are available near tourist attractions. You can also seek fortune. You can visit the Seven Lucky Gods. Also you can enjoy a public hot bath facility.
Higashikurume City Hall plays a vital role. It helps maintain the quality of life here. It supports its residents. It also promotes growth and development. As you stand here consider the history. Reflect on the community it serves. Higashikurume City Hall is more than just a building. It is a symbol of the city’s identity.