The San’ai Dream Center a cylindrical marvel. It stands tall against the Ginza skyline. Its story begins not with bricks and mortar but with a man Kiyoshi Ichimura. He was a visionary entrepreneur. He founded both Ricoh and San-ai. The San’ai building is a testament to his ambition and success.
Ichimura’s journey began humbly. Born in a Saga village he rose through the ranks. He worked at a bank then sold insurance. His sales talent led him to Riken. He eventually became the head of their photosensitive paper division. This paved the way for Ricoh. His Ginza experiences played a pivotal role in his life.
San-ai started as a humble supermarket. It quickly transitioned into a women’s fashion store. Ichimura’s genius lay in understanding women. He learned their secrets in department store washrooms. He hired female students to study women’s conversations. This helped shape San-ai’s product selection. His wife Yukie heavily influenced design and product choice.
The San’ai Dream Center’s construction was extraordinary. It was completed in 1963. Its midnight opening was spectacular. A gondola carrying models ascended. Each floor lit up as it rose. A massive Mitsubishi logo crowned the building.
The building has since housed various businesses. It initially featured a Mitsubishi Electric showroom. This highlighted audio equipment. Nissan also operated a showroom. They showcased their Bluebirds and Fairladys. Saleswomen known as Miss Fairladys worked there. Mazda displayed its Capella Rotary Coupe.
Even today the San’ai building retains its iconic status. It remains a landmark. Many remember the midnight opening ceremony. It stands as a reminder of Ginza’s vibrant past. The San’ai building’s legacy continues. It embodies Ichimura’s entrepreneurial spirit. It represents a unique chapter in Ginza’s history.